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Hanover, Germany – 15 September 2009. Johnson Controls, one of the world’s leading suppliers of automotive interior systems, electronics and batteries, is presenting its re3 concept car at the 2009 IAA (Frankfurt Motor Show) in Frankfurt and demonstrating how electric driving saves fuel, without compromising space. The novel packaging of the lithium-ion battery system of one of the world market leaders of starter batteries allows room for five people in this concept car, as well as generous storage space in the trunk.

With its re3 concept car, Johnson Controls is showcasing its innovative battery technology and novel packaging idea for storing energy. 96 lithium-ion cells are uniquely packaged between the front seats in the tunnel console of the vehicle. With more than 7 kWh, the storage module provides sufficient energy to easily transport commuters to and from work or allow families to take an extended shopping trip – without using a single drop of gasoline. Active cooling of the cells ensures optimal operating conditions. The cross-system energy management of the re3 ensures even charging and discharging of the lithium ion accumulators (cell balancing), a key requisite for maximum energy efficiency and the long-term reliability of the storage cells.

Trendsetting packaging concept
Electro-mobility is on the agenda of many nations. Lithium-ion batteries are at the heart of these vehicles and thus of elementary importance for electro-mobility acceptance. However, the huge energy stores often prove to be tricky for many electric and hybrid vehicles. The feasible energy density, in other words, the ratio of size to capability of an accumulator, forces car designers into making compromises – often at the expense of storage space. The trunk is therefore often used for purposes other than intended or the entire rear seat bench must give way to battery technology.

The designers at Johnson Controls managed to optimally place the energy store in the tunnel console of the re3, making the concept car a true space-saving sensation. The attractive interior design allows ample room for five adults; three of which can sit comfortably in the rear of the vehicle. In addition, the re3 also offers adequate trunk space. But not only is the space of the re3 impressive. The placement of the battery also has a positive impact on driving characteristics. The driver benefits from a low center of gravity, facilitated by installation of the storage modules in the center of the vehicle, which enhances ride and handling characteristics.

Ready for series production
Johnson Controls-Saft is already manufacturing lithium-ion batteries for series production in Europe. For example, Mercedes uses 35 VL6P lithium-ion cells in its S-Class S400 BlueHybrid, as will the BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid that will start shipping later this year.

Ford also intends to use Johnson Controls-Saft lithium-ion batteries in its PHEV vehicle (plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle). Series production of this model on the North American market is expected to start in 2012. Great emphasis is placed on the reliability of the electric drives and thus the necessary energy management for use in commercial vehicles. U.S. automaker Azure Dynamics (AZD), who specializes in hybrid-powered commercial vehicles, will equip its next generation of hybrid-electric delivery vehicles with the battery technology of Johnson Controls-Saft starting at the end of 2010. This vehicle class – small delivery vehicles and shuttle buses – represents 12 percent of total traffic volume and is responsible for 25 percent of greenhouse gases caused by road traffic in the U.S.

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 defence. Saft is the world’s leading manufacturer of nickel-cadmium 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 defence and space industries. With approximately 4,000 employees worldwide, Saft is present in 18 countries. Its 15 manufacturing sites and extensive sales network enable the group to serve its customers worldwide. Saft is listed in the SBF 120 index on the Paris Stock Market. For more information, visit Saft at www.saftbatteries.com

Image download for press purposes only:

re3 Battery 1 Johnson Controls has positioned the battery in the tunnel console between the two front seats. This has the advantage that trunk and rear seat space can be maintained, enabling a low center of gravity and maximizing the distance to the perimeter of the vehicle. This also allows for maximum rear cargo storage and three passengers in the rear seat by utilizing the space between the two front seats in the center tunnel. Photo: Johnson Controls Image download (72dpi) Image download (300dpi)

re3 Battery 2 The highly efficient, liquid-cooled battery contains over 7.6 kWh of energy and is available for series production. You can drive about 50 km with this battery in pure electric battery mode before the internal combustion engine kicks in – making it about ten times more powerful than the batteries in current use. Photo: Johnson Controls Image download (72dpi) Image download (300dpi)

Further information is available from:

Johnson Controls Power Solutions
5757 N. Green Bay Ave.
Green Bay Ave., Glendale, WI 53209
USA

Rebecca Fitzgerald
Tel.: +1-414-524-2945
Mobile: +1-414-418-4450
E-mail: Rebecca.Fitzgerald@jci.com

Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) 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 http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

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