First seating product featuring Johnson Controls, CRH and Keiper technology / Modular front seat structure is benchmark in lightweight construction

Burscheid (ots) - Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive
seating, interiors and electronics, has introduced a modular front
seat structure that sets a new benchmark in lightweight construction.
It also is the first product that demonstrates the combined expertise
Johnson Controls is offering customers following the acquisition of
C. Rob. Hammerstein (CRH) and Keiper. Johnson Controls will provide
Daimler with more than 30 different versions of the front seat
structure for several Mercedes-Benz models.

"We are excited by the introduction of this modular seat structure
because it meets stringent industry requirements and achieves a new
level of lightweight construction, believed to be the lowest-weight
structure of its kind in the market," said Beda Bolzenius, president
of Johnson Controls Automotive Experience.

The innovative seat structure was achieved through the combined
contributions of Johnson Controls, CRH and Keiper. To realize a 4.0
to 6.4 kilogram weight reduction per vehicle, designers utilized a
modular system featuring the latest lightweight recliner mechanisms
and drives. This includes CRH's lightweight seat rails and electric
spindle drives, using all synthetic materials for the tilt adjustment
module rather than the conventional use of steel. The recliner, which
comes from Keiper's Taumel 2000 series, offers maximum strength
combined with minimum weight.

By taking new approaches to component construction and design,
further weight savings were achieved. For example, the design of the
integrated seatbelt buckle eliminates the need for a crash locking
system and saves weight. The same applies to the side of the seat
frame, which can withstand loads of up to 850 megapascal as the
result of an efficient combination of high-strength steel and a new
component design.

The manual structure for compact and medium segment vehicles,
weighs between 9.5 and 12.3 kilograms, depending on the
configuration. The fully electrified structure weighs 13 kilograms.
Both of these are believed to set a new industry benchmark.

Johnson Controls' modular structure combines a lightweight seat
design and other innovative solutions and meets the demanding
Mercedes-Benz specifications. The backrest also provides increased
spaciousness, as the basic structure has an extremely slim and
compact design. This translates into more elbow and leg room,
especially for rear seat passengers.

At the same time, the wide-ranging adjustment options - especially
in length and height - of the structure enable an ergonomic and
comfortable sitting position. The sense of comfort is increased by a
comfortable cushion thickness and easy-to-operate adjustment options.

"It is increasingly challenging to find a balance between
lightweight and high performance. Through the integration of
electronics, such as rear seat entertainment systems in the headrest
and a growing number of features, automotive seats have to serve
multiple purposes," Bolzenius said. "Our new structure responds to
the demands for strength requirements through patented solutions that
create optimal force distribution enabled by the unique arrangement
of drives and components. At the same time, we incorporated new
materials and material combinations, such as high-strength steels and
polyamide inserts."

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial
leader serving customers in over 150 countries. Our 154,000 employees
create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy
and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive
batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles;
and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to
sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of
the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and
by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to
shareholders and making our customers successful.

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.

For more information please contact:
Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Experience
Industriestraße 20-30
51399 Burscheid
Germany

Oliver Herkert
Tel.: +49 (0)2174 65-4348
Fax: +49 (0)2174 65-3219
E-Mail: oliver.herkert@jci.com