MILWAUKEE, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, Inc. (NYSE: [ JCI ]) today announced plans to invest $138.5 million to convert its battery plant near Toledo, Ohio into an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery facility for Start-Stop and other high efficiency vehicles. Subject to final state and local incentives, the facility will be the company's first such plant in the United States.

"Start-Stop vehicle technology is emerging globally as one of the most affordable options for consumers who want to buy a more fuel-efficient car for very little added cost up front," said Alex Molinaroli, president for Johnson Controls Power Solutions. "We see this market growing to 35 million batteries globally by 2015, and the United States is an important piece of the market."

Johnson Controls' investment will add 6 million in AGM battery capacity to the company's North American AGM footprint by 2013. The expansion will create 50 new jobs and retain 400 existing jobs in the community.

Start-Stop is a technology applied to a standard gasoline-powered vehicle that automatically shuts the engine off during idle, reducing fuel use and emissions by 5 percent to 12 percent, and restarts when the driver engages the clutch or releases the brake pedal.

Johnson Controls is currently the leading supplier of Start-Stop batteries in Europe through its VARTA® brand. In 2010 the company supplied 3 million VARTA Start-Stop batteries in Europe, and is adding capacity there to reach 11.2 million batteries by 2015.

"In addition to Start-Stop, our Original Equipment customers are also turning to our AGM technology to support many of their other new high efficiency vehicles that place similar aggressive demands on the battery. Our superior AGM technology is proven in Europe, where we've enjoyed working with our customers to help them meet strict regulations on CO2 emissions," said Jorge Guillen, vice president, Start-Stop, for Johnson Controls Power Solutions. "Our Toledo facility will be very important in helping to establish the same leadership here in the United States."

Pending final state and local approvals, Johnson Controls will receive a combination of tax credits and incentives from the state of Ohio totaling $25 million. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer and the first line will launch production in spring 2012.

About Johnson Controls:

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 142,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; automotive batteries; 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. In 2011, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #1 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list. For additional information, please visit [ http://www.johnsoncontrols.com ].

About Johnson Controls Power Solutions:

Johnson Controls Power Solutions is the global leader in lead-acid starter batteries and advanced lead-acid batteries for Start-Stop vehicles. Our 35 manufacturing facilities supply more than one-third of the world's lead-acid batteries to major auto makers and aftermarket retailers. Through our innovations we are building the advanced battery industry for more fuel efficient and sustainable vehicles. Our commitment to sustainability is evidenced by our world-class technology, manufacturing and recycling capabilities.

SOURCE Johnson Controls, Inc.

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Johnson Controls to Invest $138.5 Million in Toledo, Ohio Battery Facility to Support Rapidly Emerging Start-Stop Vehicle Techn

Johnson Controls to Invest $138.5 Million in Toledo, Ohio Battery Facility to Support Rapidly Emerging Start-Stop Vehicle Technology