Johnson Controls AutoVision System Featured In Ford's E-150 2001 Wagon
6 September 2000
Johnson Controls AutoVision(R) System Featured In Ford's E-150 2001 Traveler WagonAutomaker to be the first to install two-screen version
of supplier's fully integrated rear seat entertainment system
PLYMOUTH, Mich., Sept. 6 Johnson Controls'
AutoVision(R) rear seat entertainment system will be featured in Ford Motor
Co.'s 2001 E-150 Traveler, a new entry targeted at families with older
children and active lifestyles. The AutoVision system is the industry's first
fully integrated rear seat entertainment system that enables passengers to
watch their favorite movies on a portable videocassette player.
"Ford will be the first automaker to install the two-screen version of the
AutoVision entertainment system, with the screens integrated into the
headliner behind both the driver and passenger seats," said Bob Ellis, vice
president of product marketing and brand development for Johnson Controls.
"The E-150 Traveler has outstanding consumer appeal and we're pleased to serve
as a key supplier for the vehicle."
In addition to the AutoVision system, the E-150 Traveler package features
the CargoMax(TM) storage system, overhead console and 7-passenger leather
seating from Johnson Controls.
"Through extensive consumer research, Johnson Controls continues to
develop interior products that surprise and delight the consumer and
ultimately affect purchase decisions," Ellis said. "The AutoVision system
featured in E-150 Traveler is just one example of how Johnson Controls'
innovations are helping to differentiate automaker's vehicles."
The AutoVision entertainment system features a consumer-driven portable
videocassette player that is fully integrated into the floor-mounted console,
located between the second-row captain chairs; two 6-inch high-resolution
monitors that use liquid-crystal display (LCD) technology; headphone jacks;
and connectors for video game attachments.
Integrated into the floor-mounted console of the van, the on-board
videocassette player can be easily removed from its base and used outside the
vehicle when connected to any standard television set.
Fully integrated into the van's headliner, the system's LCD monitors pull
down from and fold into unobtrusive overhead consoles. Constant force hinges
provide the mobility to adjust the screens to multiple viewing positions.
Picture brightness can be adjusted for day or night viewing.
Movie soundtracks and game sound effects can be played through the van's
audio system or on separate headphones. Since AutoVision is fully integrated,
it is possible for front-seat passengers to listen to radio programs,
audiocassettes or CDs, while those in the rear cabin watch and listen to
videocassettes on headphones or play video games.
In addition, the AutoVision system is the first in-vehicle entertainment
system of its kind to be specifically designed for the rigors of daily vehicle
use. The system provides protection for hot, cold and humid climates. It also
features a liquid-resistant design that helps to protect the system from
unavoidable spills.
Johnson Controls launched production of its AutoVision System last month
for 2001 Ford Windstar, Mercury Villager and Nissan Quest models.
The Plymouth, Michigan-based automotive business of Johnson Controls --
which employs more than 65,000 people at 275 facilities worldwide -- achieved
US$12.1 billion in sales for the 1999 fiscal year. In model-year 2000, it will
supply interior products for more than 23 million vehicles.
