Johnson Controls Announces Price Increase for Lead-Acid Batteries

MILWAUKEE, March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As a result of increasing environmental, health and safety standards and the investments required to support them, Johnson Controls, Inc., (NYSE: JCI) will implement an 8 percent price increase on lead-acid batteries sold in the United States and Canada for orders starting May 1, 2012.

"Johnson Controls supports the rational tightening of standards such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standard and the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants," said Alex Molinaroli, president, Johnson Controls Power Solutions. "It's the right thing to do to keep up with the latest advancements in environmental, health and safety controls. While we believe our facilities are already best-in-class, the standards have tightened ten-fold, so that will require significant investment."

More stringent national air standards for lead emissions were issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in 2008 and again as recently as January 2012. Johnson Controls also anticipates increased standards related to employee safety and employee blood lead levels. According to Molinaroli, the company is investing $162 million on its North American recycling centers to be sure they meet the latest environmental standards, as well as an additional $50 million to further improve the company's already industry-leading employee blood lead levels at its battery manufacturing facilities.

"The investments we're making will be seen throughout the supply chain, ultimately making their way to the consumer," Molinaroli said. "That said, even with these rising costs, the lead acid battery will remain incredibly efficient and the best dollar-for-dollar value for the vital functions it supports."

About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 162,000 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

WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM?

440k+
Newsrooms &
Influencers

9k+
Digital Media
Outlets

270k+
Journalists
Opted In

GET STARTED