Johnson Controls debuts the ultimate in smart seating at the 2013 North American International Auto Show

Gen 3 Synergy Seat features advancements in comfort, safety and craftsmanship with reduced mass

DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Reducing the weight and complexity, while enhancing comfort and safety, is exactly what Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating, has accomplished with its Gen 3 Synergy Seat.

This smart seating solution will be showcased at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) at Detroit’s Cobo Center.       

“Johnson Controls’ Gen 3 Synergy Seat truly exemplifies the ultimate in integrated seating system development,” said Thomas Gould, design director, Johnson Controls Automotive Seating. “Targeted at the luxury market, the seat combines eco-friendly materials with our most advanced technologies and integrates advancements in trim materials and foam formulations to enhance dynamic comfort.”

According to Gould, additional benefits of the Gen 3 Synergy Seat include:

  • The newest technologies to provide best-in-class comfort, functionality and appearance tailored to the luxury market.
  • Fiber-reinforced composite back frame that provides a low mass design and improved packaging efficiency.
  • A fully powered seat system that is complemented by a powered four-way, passive head restraint with an integrated fore-and-aft locking adjuster and an up-down height adjuster to  offer maximum flexibility, comfort and ease-of-use.
  • VariTec horizontal layering cushion that combines dual layers of foam with varying hardness into one cushion to achieve short and long-term comfort.

Additionally, the premium option includes Climate Fabric inserts manufactured with Dry Fit® yarn and bonded with 3D-knit mesh-type fabric. This fabric breathes and moves away moisture, enhancing long-term comfort for occupants.

The seat’s leather option includes a proprietary computer numerical control sewing process that delivers a unique trim appearance and incorporates a custom perforation insert pattern that aides in heating and cooling.

This is the 19th year that Johnson Controls will be involved in NAIAS as an event sponsor and exhibitor. Its 10,000-square-foot exhibit in room D2-15 of Detroit’s Cobo Center will be open to media and invited guests. A product overview press conference will be held at 6:30 a.m. EST on Monday, January 14. 

The NAIAS event – one of the world’s premier automotive exhibitions – opens to the media and industry officials on January 14.

Photos can be downloaded from our online image gallery.

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. In 2012, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #5 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

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.

SOURCE Johnson Controls