Gentex Selected by Johnson Controls To Manufacture New Intelligent Automotive Communications Mirror
5 January 1998
Gentex Selected by Johnson Controls To Manufacture New Intelligent Automotive Communications Mirror
ZEELAND, Mich., Jan. 5 -- Gentex Corporation ,
the world-leading supplier of automatic-dimming mirrors to the auto industry,
announced today that it has been selected to manufacture a key component for
AutoLink(TM), an advanced, intelligent communications system for automobiles
developed jointly by Prince, a Johnson Controls company, and
HighwayMaster Corp. .
The patented AutoLink is a safety, security and information product for
motorists that links vehicles to a 24-hour-a-day, national network that can
provide roadside assistance, emergency response, Global Positioning System
(GPS) satellite-based navigation support, theft notification, and interactive
messaging and information services.
The AutoLink technology has advantages over competing systems: its array
of functions; broad geographic coverage area that includes the United States
and Canada; affordable price; and low operating costs. It also offers
enhanced fraud protection, as all calls are routed through an AutoLink
communications center and must pass security checks.
Unlike other systems, Autolink users are connected directly to a live
operator who provides step-by-step directions to the driver's destination, and
the directions are automatically recorded in the travel note voice recorder.
This is a safer option compared with other systems that require the driver to
read the directions on a screen.
AutoLink's unique user interface is housed within a Gentex Night Vision
Safety(TM) (NVS(R)) mirror for the aftermarket product. NVS Mirrors
automatically dim to preserve driver vision when detecting glare from
rearward-approaching vehicles. Vehicle drivers or passengers will activate
the available communications functions by using voice commands or by pushing
buttons on the face of the mirror. Features like emergency services, roadside
assistance, message recording and playback, information services, Internet
access, theft notification and access to cellular phone service are among the
amenities offered.
Johnson Controls -- the world's largest supplier of automotive seating and
interior systems -- is exhibiting prototypes of the unique mirror at the 1998
North American International Auto Show in Detroit. By next September,
consumers will be able to purchase the high-tech mirror systems -- which
include trunk-mounted electronic control units -- at retail cellular
communications stores.
Last year, Prince and HighwayMaster launched the development of AutoLink,
initially with products that could be featured as optional equipment on new
vehicles. Automakers can now include the technology as part of an integrated,
compact overhead display developed by Prince. In future new vehicle
applications, AutoLink could be integrated into the rearview mirror.
According to Michael Suman, vice president of advanced sales and marketing
for Prince, a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson Controls, "Gentex was the
obvious choice to manufacture the AutoLink mirror. We needed someone with
experience in mirrors and electronics, and these are Gentex's core
competencies. It couldn't have been a more natural fit."
Gentex officials are equally excited about the relationship. "AutoLink is
a great project for us because it not only showcases our mirror manufacturing
and electronics expertise, but it also represents an exciting entry to the
aftermarket for our auto-dimming mirrors," said Gentex Executive Vice
President Kenneth La Grand.
AutoLink systems will be sold by Prince to automotive manufacturers for
integration into new vehicles.
A firm, suggested retail price for the AutoLink-based mirror system has
not yet been established. The buyer would be required to purchase the mirror
system hardware and pay a monthly network service fee. According to Johnson
Controls officials, the actual price of the mirror system may be established
at approximately $750 -- but could vary with the terms of the buyer's network
contract agreement.
HighwayMaster, based in Dallas, Texas, is providing the extensive, private
wireless network for AutoLink Products, as well as advanced switching services
throughout the United States and Canada. The Company, a leader in network
communications systems and technologies, currently operates the world's
largest, private, enhanced-cellular network, including applications for the
long-haul trucking and automotive industries.
Johnson Controls, Inc., with headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a
global market leader in automotive systems and building controls. Through its
Automotive Systems Group, it designs and produces seating and interior systems
for automakers worldwide, and batteries for the original equipment and
replacement markets. The Controls Group serves the non-residential buildings
market with controls systems and services, and integrated facility management.
Founded in 1885, Johnson Controls operates in more than 500 locations around
the world.
The Plymouth, Michigan-based Automotive Systems Group of Johnson Controls
is the world's largest supplier of vehicle seating and interior systems, and
is a major supplier of batteries. In 1997, the Company's worldwide operations
supplied products for more than 20 million vehicles.
Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, Prince is one of the world's most
renowned providers of automotive interior systems and electronics. Prince is
a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson Controls, Inc.
Gentex Corporation is an international company that provides high-quality
products to the worldwide automotive industry and North American fire
protection market. The Company develops, manufactures and markets proprietary
electro-optic products, including interior and exterior electrochromic,
automatic-dimming Night Vision Safety automotive rearview mirrors that dim in
proportion to the amount of headlight glare from trailing vehicle headlamps,
and an extensive line of fire protection products for commercial applications.
Gentex was the first company in the world to successfully develop and
produce a commercial electrochromic mirror for the motor vehicle industry.
The Company is the leading supplier of these mirrors to the worldwide
automotive industry. Gentex customers include Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler,
Daewoo, Fiat, Ford, General Motors, Gulf States Toyota, Honda, Hyundai,
Infiniti, Kia Motors, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Opel, Porsche,
Rolls Royce and Southeast Toyota Distributors.
Founded in 1974, Gentex operates out of three facilities in Zeeland,
Michigan; an automotive sales and marketing office in Livonia, Michigan; an
automotive sales and engineering subsidiary in Germany; and five regional U.S.
sales offices for the Fire Protection Products Group. The Company is
recognized for its quality products, its application of world class
manufacturing principles, for its commitment to developing and maintaining a
highly skilled workforce, and for encouraging employee ownership of the
Company's stock.
For further information about AutoLink products and technologies, visit
the AutoLink site on the World Wide Web at http://www.autolink.princecorp.com.
SOURCE Gentex Corporation