Johnson Controls premiers Synergy Seat Gen 3 seating concept at the IAA / The smart, sustainable and lightweight seating solution for the upper-medium segment (BILD)

Frankfurt, Germany (ots) -

Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating systems
and components, is premiering its Synergy Seat Gen 3 in Europe at the
International Motor Show (IAA) 2013. This new seating concept
combines numerous innovations from Johnson Controls.

The Synergy Seat Gen 3 demonstrates the unique capabilities of the
global leader in automotive seating in unprecedented form.

"Innovation was a factor in the Synergy Seat Gen 3 well before the
product features were actually defined and implemented. We have taken
a holistic approach from the outset," said Andreas Maashoff, director
Industrial Design and Craftsmanship and Consumer and Market Research,
Johnson Controls Automotive Seating. "First, as an interdisciplinary
team, we gathered information on all the latest trend and consumer
research, customer feedback, market data, and benchmarking. Second,
we defined the requirements of consumers, automakers with their
respective strategies and brand identities, and Johnson Controls as
an innovation, technology, and design leader."

Early product definition

Defining the product at such an early stage - coupled with the
benefits of virtual design and virtual engineering tools - enabled a
quick and real-life visualization of 3D seat models. In keeping with
the synergy concept, the entire product development process involved
the innovative expertise of the seating systems, metals and
mechanisms, foam, trim, and fabrics segments as well as composites.
The shared goal was to create a smart seating solution for the upper-
medium segment, combining eco-friendly materials with state-of-the-
art technology and reducing mass and complexity while enhancing
comfort and safety.

Expressive design

"Seats are becoming a much more central design element and a key
distinguishing feature in automotive interiors. Customization is
playing a greater role than ever," said Maashoff. The Synergy Seat
Gen 3 from Johnson Controls presents a design concept with a range of
attractive details. The high quality of the materials and
craftsmanship are immediately evident.

"In designing the seat, we have translated current trends from the
world of architecture and fashion. But the expressive, three-
dimensional design of our Synergy Seat Gen 3 also incorporates key
elements of current vehicle exteriors," said Maashoff. These include
striking framework structures, which the Johnson Controls designers
have implemented in light outlines and dark interior zones.
Decorative stripes and stitching highlight the contours and underline
the sculptural appearance of the seat. Subtle ambient lighting behind
the backrest also reflects one of the latest trends.

"There is a deliberate play on contrasting convex and concave
surfaces. Emphasizing the concave surfaces reduces the visible
volume, making the seat appear lighter," said Maashoff.

Less weight, reduced complexity

The lightweight structure is one of the most important design
features of the Synergy Seat Gen 3 - interior weight savings
represent a key construction principle. A central element is the
innovative backrest made of so-called organo sheets.

"For this, we specifically combined fabric material with an
injection-molding process to create a similar stability to
fiberglass-reinforced plastics and strength properties similar to
carbon. We were able to dispense with the standard metal structure
inside the backrest completely," said Maashoff. Components such as
mounting elements for attaching side wedges or head restraints can
also be easily integrated into the backrest during molding. Johnson
Controls has reduced the total number of parts in the interior as
well as its complexity.

Thanks to its slimline contour, the backrest is an extremely
space- saving addition to the automotive interior. As a visible
component, it also features an exceedingly flexible surface design,
e.g. variations in the color, sheen, and feel of the shell material
are possible via thin films which are directly applied to the seat.
Effects can also be achieved using lacquer or fabric- and leather-
covered surfaces.

Johnson Controls' innovative, lightweight seat tracks and height
and tilt adjusters go a long way to reduce the mass of the structure
as well. For example, the Taumel 3000 recliner used in the Synergy
Seat Gen 3 is up to 44 percent lighter than its predecessor.

Latest generation of head restraints

The Synergy Seat Gen 3's head restraints were designed to
integrate harmoniously into the overall look of the seat. The passive
head restraint is fully electrically adjustable both horizontally and
vertically, offering maximum safety, flexibility, ease of use, and
comfort. It is also less complex - the adjustment mechanism is fully
integrated into the component, making assembly much easier. In
keeping with the premium standard, the acoustic profile of operating
noises and other adjustment mechanisms in the seat has been designed
to suit the upper-medium segment.

Climate zones for increased comfort

The Synergy Seat Gen 3 features fabric trims with integrated
climate zones. These breathable DryFit fabrics wick moisture away
from the body via underlying 3D woven spacer fabrics, ensuring
long-lasting comfort. The 3D effects and striking seams of the
optional leather trims were created using a proprietary
computer-controlled sewing process. Customized perforation zones can
be used in the leather to improve climate control. The various
degrees of hardness of the seat cushion in the VariTec multi-zone
foam under the seat covers ensure a comfortable seat on long
journeys.

Johnson Controls will present its innovations from Sept. 12-22,
2013, at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany, in
Hall 5.1, Booth B28.

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

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial
leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 168,000
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
Automotive Experience 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 more than 240 plants 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 50 million
cars per year.

For more information, please contact:

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

Ulrich Andree
Tel.: +49 2174 65-4343
E-mail: ulrich.andree@jci.com

Oliver Herkert
Tel.: +49 2174 65-4348
E-mail: oliver.herkert@jci.com

Internet: www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk

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