SEMA 2004; Johnson Controls Displays High-Performance Batteries, Interior Innovations at Show in Las Vegas

OPTIMA batteries, Railport modules and HomeLink system are showcased

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 2 -- Automotive supplier Johnson Controls is displaying its high-performance batteries and unique interior products at the 2004 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show this week.

The OPTIMA(R) Battery, Railport(TM) Vehicle Personalization System and HomeLink(R) Wireless Control System will be shown at the Johnson Controls display booth (#24129) at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Tuesday, November 2 through Friday, November 5. The SEMA show is the world's largest trade show focused on automotive accessory products, trends and technologies.

"From the latest in battery technology to interior innovations, we continue to develop products that enhance the driving experience," said Jeff Williams, group vice president and general manager of product planning for the Automotive Group of Johnson Controls. "The SEMA show is an excellent opportunity to showcase our latest innovations that are sure to differentiate automakers' vehicles and delight consumers."

On display at the show are OPTIMA Batteries, Johnson Controls' premium brand of auto, marine and commercial batteries, designed to deliver the ultimate power in a variety of high-demand applications.

OPTIMA Batteries are high-performance, lead-acid batteries based on the patented SpiralCell(R) technology and "six-pack" exterior design. This technology involves lead plates that are wound into tight spiral cells, resulting in a larger surface area which produces more power then other commonly used batteries. These advanced-design batteries are favored by off- road enthusiasts, car audiophiles, hot rod and custom car builders, and other auto enthusiasts that seek a high-performance battery.

The OPTIMA Battery can be mounted in almost any position without leaking due to a porous glass separator between the plates that holds the electrolyte. OPTIMA's SpiralCell technology, combined with the battery's extreme resistance to vibration, provides vehicles with the necessary power in a spill-proof package.

Also showcased is Johnson Controls' innovative Railport system. This system offers consumers the ability to customize the interior of their vehicle at the point of purchase and throughout the vehicle's lifecycle. Integrated into a vehicle's overhead, the Railport system features flexible docking technology that provides for the attachment of more than 30 different modules.

Railport allows consumers to customize their vehicle interior to meet their unique lifestyles and hobbies. Automakers have 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.

On display are several Railport modules that are in production or under development, including:

   -- Air purification system;

   -- AutoVision(R) rear-seat entertainment system;

   -- BlueConnect(TM) hands-free cellular phone system;

   -- First aid kit by DC Safety Sales Co., Inc.;

   -- PhatNoise(R) digital video recorder for showing video and MP3 files on
      a removable hard drive;

   -- Satellite radio;

   -- Security storage by Master Lock Co.;

   -- Miniature SnakeLight(R) flashlights by Black & Decker Corp.; and

   -- Storage bin inserts by Case Logic, Inc. for various items like compact
      discs, DVDs, cell phones and PDAs.

In addition, Johnson Controls' HomeLink Wireless Control System is being exhibited at the SEMA show. This radio-frequency (RF) system allows drivers to remotely operate garage doors, gates, entry door locks, security systems and home lighting. The first remote control system to be permanently mounted on a sun visor, overhead console or rear-view mirror, the HomeLink system currently is installed in more than 25 million vehicles nationwide.

Through a simple training process, the HomeLink system duplicates the codes of original transmitters. The integration of these features into one HomeLink unit eliminates the need for multiple receivers and continues to gain popularity with auto dealers and consumers due to its security, efficiency and convenience features.

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.