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Johnson Controls Produces 'Green' Door Trim Panels For Sebring

19 September 2000

Johnson Controls Launches Production on 'Green' Door Trim Panels For 2001 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Vehicle is first to feature supplier's innovative,
environmentally-friendly Eco-Cor(TM) material and process

    PLYMOUTH, Mich., Sept. 19 Johnson Controls , a
leading automotive interior supplier, has launched production on the door trim
panels for DaimlerChrysler's 2001 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. The vehicle
will be the first to feature Johnson Controls' revolutionary new Eco-Cor(TM)
material and process.
    "In our exclusive Eco-Cor material and process, our engineers developed an
environmentally friendly substrate that meets customer specifications for
performance, weight and cost," said Jeff Williams, vice president,
DaimlerChrysler business unit for Johnson Controls. "DaimlerChrysler's 2001
Sebring Convertible will undoubtedly be a best-seller and we are pleased that
our new offering can contribute to its success."
    The Eco-Cor material is an environmentally friendly door panel substrate
made from a blend of natural and polypropylene fibers. Its unique forming
process produces a low-cost door panel and adheres the foil cover in one step.
    The material and process offers additional benefits, including: the
elimination of glue, lower tooling costs versus traditional door trim
manufacturing operations, increased strength, improved acoustics and reduced
part weight. The natural fiber construction also provides side-impact
protection characteristics.
    "In addition to incorporating our innovative Eco-Cor material and process
into the design, our engineers also worked closely with DaimlerChrysler
engineers to develop a systems attachment approach for this door trim panel,"
said Rob Springer, lead process engineer for Johnson Controls.
    According to Springer, the appearance, feel and long-term durability of
door trim panels are key elements that influence consumer satisfaction. These
elements are directly tied to the materials and processes used in door trim
assembly. Johnson Controls views door trim as an opportunity to skillfully
combine substrates, coverings, decorative trim and manufacturing processes --
resulting in the appropriate balance of styling, performance and value.
    Johnson Controls' Warren, Michigan facility -- which opened this past
May -- supplies the final door trim panels to DaimlerChrysler. Eco-Cor
materials and door trim parts come from Johnson Controls' facilities in
Holland, Michigan and the cover skin for the door panels is supplied by
Acton, Massachusetts-based The Haartz Corp.