Johnson Controls is Honored With a PACE Award for Development of its Railport System for Vehicles

Company's Auto Overhead Personalization System Recognized as Innovative, 'Game-Changing' Product

PLYMOUTH, Mich., March 15 -- Johnson Controls has won a 2004 PACE Award from Automotive News and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young for its industry leading innovation in automotive interiors. The company gained the recognition for developing and launching production of its Railport(TM) Vehicle Personalization System.

The annual PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence) Award were presented last night at the Detroit Opera House.

Nominated in the product category - which recognizes innovations in new products and introductions processes that have significant market impact and act as "game-changers" in the automotive industry - the Railport system from Johnson Controls was applauded for utilizing critical interior space in a new and creative way.

The recognition marks the sixth time in the past nine years in which Johnson Controls has earned a PACE Award for innovative manufacturing and engineering processes, as well as unique products.

"We are thrilled that our company and the Railport system have been honored with a PACE Award," said John Gorton, group vice president and general manager, engineering for the Automotive Group of Johnson Controls. "It also proves that our commitment to developing innovative interiors that surprise and delight customers and adapt to consumer lifestyles is effective and making an impact."

Integrated into a vehicle's overhead system, the Railport system features flexible docking technology that allows for the attachment of a variety of modular devices. The system enables customers to customize the interior of their vehicle at the point of purchase and throughout the vehicle's lifestyle.

The Railport technology gives automakers the opportunity to refresh their vehicles' interiors without having to wait for traditional mid-cycle or major model changes. It enables them to achieve this at reduced design, engineering and tooling costs. The system also enables customers to customize vehicle interiors to meet their unique lifestyles and hobbies.

This is the 10th year that the Automotive News has honored innovative automotive suppliers through the PACE Awards, which are co-sponsored by Cap Gemini Ernst & Young and the Transportation Research Center, Inc. Automotive News is a weekly trade publication of Crain Communications. Cap Gemini Ernst & Young is a leading international professional services firm involved in the auto industry. The Transportation Research Center Inc. provides comprehensive research, development and testing services and facilities to manufacturers, industry organizations and government agencies worldwide.

The program recognizes automotive industry participants - suppliers and auto manufacturers - that have embraced innovation or adapted and reinvented themselves to keep abreast of the constantly rising performance bar of the automaker/customer. The prestigious program sets the standard for innovation and excellence and has become a significant industry credential.

Johnson Controls is a global market leader in automotive systems and facility management and control. In the automotive market, it is a major supplier of integrated seating and interior systems, and batteries. For non- residential facilities, Johnson Controls provides control systems and services including comfort, energy and security management. Johnson Controls , founded in 1885, has headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.