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Johnson Controls Inc. Joins Ford Transit Connect Electric Lead Customer Program with 20 unit order


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SEE ALSO: Electric Vehicles - Solution or Diversion?

OAK PARK, MI, Sept. 22 -- Azure Dynamics confirmed today that Johnson Controls, Inc. will participate in the Ford Transit Connect Electric Lead customer program. Johnson Controls, already a partner in the vehicle development, will receive one of the exclusive supply of 2010 Ford Transit Connect Electric vans in December 2010, with the remaining 19 vans to be shipped in the spring and summer of 2011.

"Earlier today we finalized an agreement with Johnson Controls on its purchase of 20 Ford Transit Connect Electric vans for its corporate fleet. So, Johnson Controls becomes both a partner and a customer for the Transit Connect Electric which says more than anything else they could say about their enthusiasm and confidence in the product," said Scott Harrison, Azure Dynamics CEO.

The Ford Transit Connect Electric is powered by Azure's proven ForceDrive(TM) electric powertrain, which utilizes an advanced lithium-ion battery from Johnson Controls-Saft.

The announcement was made today at Azure's Oak Park, Mi., headquarters during an event that included Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm along with speakers from Ford Transit Connect Electric partner organizations including Azure, Ford Motor Company, Johnson Controls Inc., and AM General. More information on that event is available at www.azuredynamics.com.

About Azure Dynamics

Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD)(OTC: AZDDF) is a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles. Azure is strategically targeting the commercial delivery vehicle and shuttle bus markets and is currently working internationally with various partners and customers. The Company is committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly energy management solutions. For more information, please visit www.azuredynamics.com.

About Johnson Controls-Saft

Johnson Controls-Saft is a joint venture that has brought together Johnson Controls -- the world's leading supplier of automotive batteries and a company deeply experienced in integrated automotive systems solutions -- with Saft, an advanced energy storage solutions provider with extensive Li-ion battery expertise.

About Saft

Saft (Euronext : Saft) is a world specialist in the design and manufacture of high-tech batteries for industry. Saft batteries are used in high performance applications such as industrial infrastructure and processes, transportation, space and defense. Saft is the world's leading manufacturer of nickelcadmium batteries for industrial applications and of primary lithium batteries for a wide range of end markets. The group is also the European leader for specialized advanced technologies for the defense and space industries. With approximately 3,800 employees worldwide, Saft is present in 18 countries. Its 18 manufacturing sites and extensive sales network enable the group to serve its customers worldwide. For more information, visit Saft at www.saftbatteries.com.

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is the global leader that brings ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of 140,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide to customers. For additional information, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com.