BURSCHEID, Germany, September 12 /PRNewswire/ --

- Space for Individuals

- Cross Reference: Picture is Distributed via EPA (European Pressphoto
Agency) and can be Downloaded Free of Charge Under:
http://www.presseportal.de/pm/19526/johnson_controls_gmbh/

Johnson Controls, one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive
interior systems, electronics and batteries, presents a new interior for the
fast-growing medium SUV segment. During development, the designers and
engineers paid particular attention to the needs of the target groups: The
demand for individuality and flexibility plus a harmonious interior ambience
were particularly significant factors. New seating solutions giving a more
spacious feel and allowing more room for storage are being introduced along
with numerous electronic highlights. Apart from the specific requirements of
the target market, the general mission of Johnson Controls drove the
development and production of this concept vehicle: leveraging global
synergies and sustainable solutions.

Consumer researchers at Johnson Controls found that drivers of
medium-sized SUVs typically fall, among others, into two main groups: two
successfull professionals living together and older couples whose children
have already left home. They want a roomy car with sporty appeal that meets
their individual needs.

New spacious concept thanks to seating innovations

The seating specifications are tailored to these target groups. Because
these individuals usually travel alone or as a couple, this eliminates the
need for a rear seat to accommodate passengers. "For this reason we set out
to make the design of the second row as flexible as possible, to create
additional storage space," said Han Hendriks, Vice President Industrial
Design and Marketing at Johnson Controls. Two innovations made this larger,
available space possible: the Slim Seat and the invisible rear-seat row. "The
Slim Seat, with its thin seat back, is just as safe and comfortable as any
conventional seat. Each Slim Seat, from basic to luxury version, is based on
our tried and tested MS seating structure," said Han Hendriks. This means
that different safety or comfort features can be integrated in alignment with
individual customer preferences - like the active head restraint or lumbar
support, which are both included in the concept car. All simulations on the
new seats have been conducted and have met the relevant requirements. Vents
in the side wedges and backrest panels of the Slim Seat convey an additional
sense of spaciousness.

The second row of seats in the default position is invisible, creating
space for extra storage. Since luggage is no longer placed on the rear seat,
the seating material is also subjected to less wear and tear. In addition to
more room for large-scale objects, there is now enough space behind the first
row of seats for pets, too. The rear-seat row unfolds to make room for two
passengers, at the touch of a button. The mechanical release allows the seat
cushion to fold down into place.

Plug-in hybrid battery for sustainable driving enjoyment

The new lithium-ion plug-in hybrid battery is integrated into the trunk.
It ensures the low-emission running of the vehicle. However, the battery is
not the only sustainable feature. "It was particularly important to us that
this concept car fulfills the requirements of the 2015 ELV directive that
stipulates 95 percent recyclability," said Johannes Roters, Group Vice
President and General Manager Europe, Africa, South America Automotive
Experience at Johnson Controls.

More ergonomic and comfort thanks to innovative electronics

In addition, the theme of ergonomics also played an important role. A
hybrid instrument cluster ensures the best possible human-machine interface
by reducing the information processing and driver distraction time. Two
smaller segmented displays to the left and right of the instrument cluster
allow various types of information to be presented. This information can be
changed by pushing the displays up or down. One display shows fuel tank and
temperature readings while the other displays provide navigation and engine
speed details.

"Developing a functional and harmonious interior requires the know-how
and interplay of all areas of competence. We are proud to be able to
demonstrate this in our concept vehicle, which also goes beyond geographical
boundaries," said Han Hendriks. For instance, our teams in the United States
developed the center console and the hybrid battery.

The special benefit: nearly all of the products in this concept car are
available now, and can be integrated in the next generation of vehicles.

You will find the full press release with photos on
http://www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk.

Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) is the global leader that brings ingenuity
to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating
technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that
redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of
140,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world
through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12
million homes and one million commercial buildings. For additional
information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

Further information is available from:

    Johnson Controls GmbH
    Automotive Experience
    Industriestrasse 20-30
    51399 Burscheid
    Germany

    Astrid Schafmeister
    Tel.: +49-2174-65-3189
    Fax: +49-2174-65-3219
    E-mail: astrid.schafmeister@jci.com

    Ina Longwitz
    Tel.: +49-2174-65-4343
    E-mail: ina.longwitz@jci.com