Johnson Controls' AutoVision(R) System To be Offered by Renault on Vel Satis Model

PLYMOUTH, Mich., Oct. 21 -- Anyone who has ever taken a long trip with children has heard the infamous question -- "are we there yet?" -- come from the rear-seat passengers. Boredom in a vehicle is a thing of the past thanks to Johnson Controls' AutoVision® rear-seat entertainment system.

Renault will offer the AutoVision system as optional equipment in the Vel Satis by the end of the year.

The AutoVision system from Johnson Controls -- one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems -- provides an ideal solution for making car trips more entertaining for passengers. It can be used to play both DVD (digital versatile disc) movies and audio CDs (compact discs).

In the Renault Vel Satis, the AutoVision system is located in the center console and features an electrically powered "pop-up" video screen. Whenever the system is not in use, the monitor disappears into the console, and a lid protects it from potential theft. The screen is electronically adjustable to a passenger's viewing angle, and an infrared remote control puts all functions at a viewer's fingertips.

The entertainment system offers a more comfortable way to travel for the whole family. Rear-seat passengers can use the AutoVision system at any time, without disturbing the driver or front-seat passenger. Passengers can watch their favorite video or listen to a CD using stereo headphones, allowing the driver to concentrate on the road. The 6.5-inch monitor is a high-grade TFT (Thin Film Transistor) display.

In addition to the Vel Satis, AutoVision is also available in Europe on the Opel Zafira and the Omega Caravan. In both vehicles, the system is integrated into the overhead console. Johnson Controls currently has 22 sold AutoVision programs with major automakers in North America and Europe.

The Plymouth, Michigan (U.S.A.)-based automotive business of Johnson Controls -- which employs more than 77,000 people at 285 facilities worldwide -- achieved US$13.6 billion in sales for the 2001 fiscal year.

Johnson Controls, Inc. is a global market leader in automotive systems and facility management and control. In the automotive market, it is a major supplier of seating and interior systems, and batteries. For non-residential facilities, Johnson Controls provides building control systems and services, energy management and integrated facility management. Johnson Controls , founded in 1885, has headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (U.S.A.). Its sales for 2001 totaled US$18.4 billion.