Johnson Controls provides intelligent solutions for new luxury sedan / Supplier helps Daimler AG realize numerous innovations in the new S-Class

Burscheid / Neuss (ots) - Johnson Controls, a global
multi-industrial company with established core businesses in the
automotive and building industries, is supplying key components for
the front seats and optional Executive rear seats, the rear-seat
entertainment system, the headliner and the sun visors in the new
Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

"We are delighted to have been able to assist Daimler in
developing its new edition luxury sedan, and provide key components
for this winning model," said Dr. Detlef Jürss, group vice president
& general manager, Customer Group Europe, Johnson Controls Automotive
Seating. "We are also contributing to the new model generation across
various product segments with our seating, interior and electronics
solutions."

Johnson Controls has worked with Mercedes-Benz on designing the
seats and is providing the automaker's own seat production plant with
key seat components. Johnson Controls' seat structure is based on a
modular solution that can be adapted to different vehicle segments.
At 20 kg, the front-seat structure of the new premium vehicle weighs
around 20 percent less than comparable conventional designs. This
weight savings has been achieved with the aid of thin- walled,
high-strength steels and the patented sandwich construction of the
side sections.

Both the driver and front-seat passenger have 10 options for
individual front-seat configuration according to stature and
preferred sitting position, and an optional Memory package for saving
the seat positions. The seat adjustment mechanisms and motors boast a
compact, lightweight design. In order to adjust the seat height by 65
millimeters, Johnson Controls has come up with an all- new tandem
solution. The patented, specially mounted actuator limits the forward
adjustment range of the cushion base to only half, while lengthening
the complete seat cushion and adapting the suspension to suit the
size and weight of the passenger. This saves the driver and
front-seat passenger from having to shift the seat again after
adjusting the seat height. Depending on the model, the Johnson
Controls head restraints can be adjusted electronically both
vertically and horizontally.

Innovative rear-seat structures for outstanding comfort

For the optional Executive seats in the rear, Johnson Controls has
developed extremely flexible individual seat structures including
special adjustment mechanisms and motors. A most upright backrest
position of 19 degrees can be achieved for working purposes. The
backrest of the Executive seats can also be adjusted rearwards,
giving it the largest inclination in the executive segment and
enabling a torso angle of up to 43.5 degrees. In addition, the seat
behind the front passenger seat can be fitted with a calf support,
which is adjustable in length, and an all-new heel rest.

If the optional Chauffeur package is ordered, the structure of the
front passenger seat supplied by Johnson Controls also enables it to
be placed in an extended-recline position for the rear-seat passenger
behind. Thanks to Johnson Controls' patented height adjustment, the
reclined front passenger seat can be brought level with the rear
reclining seat at the touch of a button. The folding head restraint
for the passenger seat was designed to be completely removed.

The FaserTec upholstery on the backrests is made from 100% natural
materials, which positively impact the climate in the vehicle
interior. This very thin, stable layer also optimally facilitates the
massage functions.

A variety of entertainment options in the rear thanks to internet
and TV

Johnson Controls has also designed the optional entertainment
system for the rear of the new luxury sedan. The two 10.2-inch TFT
screens are mounted on the front-seat backrests. Unlike systems that
are integrated into the backrest, rear-seat passengers can
individually adjust the position of the displays. The 16:9 format can
be comfortably enjoyed at a viewing angle of up to 160 degrees. If
the backrest of the front seat is adjusted, an interface integrated
into the passenger seat automatically adjusts the position of the
screen. The position of the screen on the driver's seat is adjusted
manually. Rear-seat passengers can control the entertainment system
themselves and make full use of the radio, TV, internet, navigation
system and DVD player. A light sensor automatically adjusts the
brightness of the quarter high-definition (qHD) displays in the
vehicle interior. Headphones ensure an uninterrupted audio
experience.

Headliner and sun visors by Johnson Controls

The headliner of the luxury sedan is characterized by good sound
absorption properties and energy-absorbing materials. Two versions
are available for the new standard- and extended-wheelbase S-Class,
with and without mounting for the optional panorama sunroof.

Johnson Controls has also developed a new module solution for the
sun visors. Compared to previous models, the expanded polypropylene
(EPP) sun visor is bigger yet lighter. EPP is soft to the touch and
can be covered with fabric or a microfiber material. The version with
an illuminated vanity mirror can be swiveled to the side and clipped
to the roof structure without the need for screws.

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial
leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000
employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize
energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid
automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric
vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to
sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of
the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and
by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to
shareholders and making our customers successful.

About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating,
overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior
electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation
of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced
manufacturing capabilities. With 240 locations worldwide, we are
where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort
and style of our products, from single components to complete
interiors. With our global capability we supply approximately 50
million cars per year.

For more information, please contact:
Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Seating
Industriestraße 20-30
51399 Burscheid Germany

Oliver Herkert
Tel.: +49 2174 65-4348
E-Mail: oliver.herkert@jci.com

Johnson Controls Interiors Management GmbH
Automotive Electronics & Interiors
Jagenbergstrasse 1
41468 Neuss Germany

Astrid Schafmeister
Tel.: +49 2131 609-3028
E-Mail: astrid.schafmeister@jci.com

Internet: www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk
Follow us on Twitter: @JCseating