New Rear-View Mirror Reflects PSI

LAS VEGAS--The PSI Mirror, a tire-pressure monitoring system from Johnson Controls, is a a rear-view mirror with an integrated display that provides information about air pressure in a vehicle’s tires. The system--available in January as a dealer-installed accessory-- also provides warnings about low tire pressure that can be seen on the display, and heard via an audible sound.

Johnson Controls is unveiling the market-ready PSI Mirror this week at the 2000 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

Beginning in January, Johnson Controls will market the PSI mirror through authorized dealers across North America as an optional accessory. It can be installed in less than 30 minutes. The price for the system is yet to be announced.

The PSI Mirror uses radio frequency (RF) technology to deliver timely and accurate pressure information within plus or minus one pound per square inch (psi). Small transmitters integrated into special tire valves send data directly to a receiver integrated within a windshield-mounted rear-view mirror. When the system is activated, actual tire pressures are shown on a back-lit display. Warning alerts are given when tire pressures fall below 25 psi, and when tire pressures are extremely low--less than 15 psi.

The PSI technology can be used with standard radial tires and extended mobility tires, which often are called “run flats.”

Included in the PSI Mirror kit are a prismatic rear-view mirror with integrated PSI electronics and a display, valve-stem pressure sensors, batteries, installation instructions and a user’s guide.

PSI systems will be included as original-equipment features on a number of model-year 2002 vehicles. The technology’s receiver circuitry and display can be integrated into rear-view mirrors, instrument panels and overhead consoles. According to the company, they look like original-equipment installations, rather than non- integrated “add-ons.”

“The PSI Mirror product is unlike competitive products being marketed today in that it is integrated into a vehicle interior as if it was original, factory equipment,” said Jeff Steiner, general manager of specialty products. “Johnson Controls...designed, engineered and tested the product for both original-equipment and dealer-accessory market applications.”

Also at the SEMA show, Johnson Controls is highlighting a wide range of its products, including the AutoVisionvehicle-integrated DVD entertainment system; CargoMax, an integrated cargo-management system; seat- back utility packages; and other consumer-focused products. Also on display is the PT Cruiser RECARO Edition, a concept specialty vehicle jointly developed by Johnson Controls and ASC Inc.

Johnson Controls’ participation in the SEMA event is being coordinated by the company's new Specialty Products Group. This unit designs, manufactures and markets automotive interior accessories that target car dealers and specialty vehicles.

(SEMA is a 3,600-member trade group representing the specialty automotive aftermarket industry, a market with estimated annual sales for 2000 of $21.2 billion.)

For more information, contact www.johnsoncontrols.com.