DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, Inc., the world's leading supplier of automotive batteries, is providing its advanced Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery technology to power Ford Motor Company's 2013 Fusion Auto Start-Stop vehicle.

AGM batteries are a proven advanced energy storage solution for Start-Stop vehicles in Europe, where Johnson Controls has manufactured more than 18 million since 2001 and now produces more than 4.5 million annually. According to recent consumer research commissioned by Johnson Controls, 90 percent of the Start-Stop vehicle owners in Europe say they are very satisfied with the technology and are likely to purchase such a vehicle again.

Johnson Controls is now supplying the same AGM technology here in the U.S. with batteries that are being manufactured out of its facilities in St. Joseph, Mo. and Toledo, Ohio.

"AGM technology is ideal for Start-Stop applications because it is better equipped than traditional batteries to support electrical loads while the engine is off, and power deep cycling associated with frequent starts and stops," said Ray Shemanski, vice president and general manager of the Original Equipment Group for Johnson Controls Power Solutions. "AGM batteries help our customers improve fuel efficiency and environmental performance while consumers see immediate economic benefits."

AGM batteries used in a Start-Stop system help reduce fuel consumption as the engine shuts off when the vehicle comes to a stop in traffic or at a red light. The battery restarts the engine when the driver's foot releases the brake pedal or engages the clutch.

According to the company's research, 97 percent of U.S. consumers say they are ready for Start-Stop vehicles, which are rapidly becoming an industry staple in Europe. Ford is one of the first automakers to offer it in this country.

Johnson Controls estimates the global Start-Stop market for new vehicles could reach 35 million annually by 2017. The company is investing $140 million to grow AGM manufacturing capacity to 6 million in the United States at its facilities in St. Joseph, Mo. and Toledo, Ohio.

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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 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 automotive batteries and advanced batteries for Start-Stop, hybrid and electric vehicles.  Our 50 manufacturing, recycling and distribution centers supply more than one-third of the world's lead-acid batteries to major automakers and aftermarket retailers.  Through our innovations we are building the advanced battery industry for hybrid and electric vehicles.  We were the first company in the world to produce lithium-ion batteries for mass-production hybrid vehicles.  Our commitment to sustainability is evidenced by our world-class technology, manufacturing and recycling capabilities.

SOURCE Johnson Controls, Inc.