Albuquerque Journal

A breath of fresh air from Mercedes

- BY GLEN ROSALES

When those spring winds begin to blow and plant pollen begins to grow, it seems like there is no escape or relief for those afflicted with the sniffles, snuffles and wheezes.

But Mercedes-Benz just may have a created a bit of a safe space as its cabin air filters this week were given an asthmaand allergy-friendly certificat­ion. The independen­t program is administer­ed in the United States by Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America and its partner Allergy Standards Limited.

Mercedes-Benz becomes the first auto manufactur­er to have its air filters so certified.

“Mercedes-Benz USA cabin air filters have gone through our extensive scientific testing and we confirmed that they meet the program’s standards to be certified asthma and allergy friendly,” said Dr. John McKeon, ASL CEO. “We are grateful for the automaker’s commitment to improve air quality for vehicle passengers.”

And for local drivers who face the maelstrom of spring breezes, it can be a welcome respite.

“Spring in New Mexico can be a challengin­g time for our customers with asthma and allergies,” said Tripp Steele, general manager and managing partner at Mercedes-Benz of Albuquerqu­e. “And I am personally so pleased that this is a way we can help ease that for them.”

The certificat­ion program helps consumers identify products more suitable for people with asthma and allergies. It is awarded only to products that are scientific­ally proven to reduce exposure to asthma and allergy triggers. The filters were checked for fiber-shedding potential, allergen capture and filter efficiency.

“Air pollution and pollen can have serious adverse effects on those with asthma and allergies,” said foundation CEO Kenny Mendez. “Improving the cabin air quality of our vehicles is just as important as improving the indoor air quality of our homes and workplaces.”

The filters are a nice incentive for people considerin­g Mercedes, Steel said.

“When we are able to help our customers into a car that not only makes them feel safe on the road but also looks out for their well-being with innovation­s like the new air filter system, we know they are getting the best for their money,” he said.

 ?? COURTESY OF MERCEDES-BENZ USA ?? Cabin air filters in Mercedes-Benz vehicles have recently been certified asthma- and allergy-friendly.
COURTESY OF MERCEDES-BENZ USA Cabin air filters in Mercedes-Benz vehicles have recently been certified asthma- and allergy-friendly.

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