01/05 10:06 Gentex Selected by Johnson Controls To Manufacture New
Intelligent Automotive Co
From moneynet.com
ZEELAND, Mich., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Gentex Corporation (Nasdaq: GNTX), 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 (NYSE: JCI) company, and HighwayMaster Corp. (Nasdaq: HWYM).
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 autolink.princecorp.com.
SOURCE Gentex Corporation
-0- 01/05/98
/CONTACT: Connie Hamblin or Craig Piersma of Gentex, 616-772-1800/
/Photo: Photo/artwork and caption to accompany this story available via Wieck Photo |
