Johnson Controls presents next-generation Keiper recliners at 2011 IAA / Keiper 3000 series recliners bring added value for seat systems (mit Bild)

Burscheid, Germany (ots) -

- Cross reference: Picture is available via epa european
pressphoto agency and can be downloaded free of charge at:
http://www.presseportal.de/pm/19526/?keygroup=bild-

Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating, interiors
and electronics, unveiled the Taumel 3000 and Lever 3000 recliners
from Keiper's product line at this year's Internationale Automobil-
Ausstellung (IAA) in Frankfurt.

Keiper's previous generation of recliners - the 2000 series - has
been produced since the mid-1990s. The 3000 series, which features
the Taumel 3000 (continuous disc recliner) and Lever 3000 (pawl and
sector disc recliner), offers the same high level of standardization,
modularity, functional integration and reliable quality that the 2000
series is known for, along with the following benefits:

- Increased load-bearing capacity: The Taumel 3000 offers a 78
percent increase in load-bearing capacity, improving occupant
safety through the absorption of force in the event of an
accident. The new 3000 series is available in three load classes
(>/= 1500Nm, >/= 2000Nm and >/= 2500Nm), with manual and power
versions being offered for three-door vehicles in all load
classes.

- Weight savings and packaging: The 3000 series recliners require
less material and provide total weight savings of up to 44 percent
and space savings of up to 53 percent over the 2000 series.

- Quality: The new recliners are easy to operate, modular (i.e.
manual and power versions are interchangeable within a load
class) and equally free of play (play <1 mm).

Heinz Voss, head of global engineering of mechanisms within
Johnson Controls' Metals and Mechanisms product business unit, said
the 3000 series was developed with a holistic approach resulting in
simplified manufacturing processes, reduced assembly time and a
considerable reduction in material.

"By focusing on the entire seat structure, we have been able to
realize innovations in the adjuster module by integrating it directly
into the side panels of the seat and the backrest. This creates an
overall weight savings potential of up to two kilograms per vehicle,"
Voss said. "Lighter-weight seats help automakers and consumers
achieve improvements in fuel economy."

Series production for the Taumel 3000 and Lever 3000 will begin in
mid-2013. Johnson Controls completed the acquisition of Keiper in
June 2011.

Digital images are available online from
www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk/press.

About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating,
overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior
electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation
of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced
manufacturing capabilities. With 200 locations worldwide, we are
where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort
and style of our products, from single components to complete
interiors. With our global capability we supply more than 30 million
cars per year.

Media Contact :
Johnson Controls GmbH Automotive Experience
Industriestraße 20-30
51399 Burscheid

Ulrich Andree
Tel.: +49 (0)2174 65-4343
Fax: +49 (0)2174 65-3219

E-Mail: ulrich.andree@jci.com