DVD video entertainment system from Johnson Controls now available on the European market: AutoVision now in BMW models

Burscheid, Germany 1í.03.2002 (ots/PROTEXT) - Riding in therear seat of various BMW models will soon be a multi-media eventfor passengers. This is made possible by AutoVision, the rear-seat video entertainment system from Johnson Controls, one of theworld's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems. WithAutoVision it is possible to play both DVD movies (DigitalVersatile Disk) and audio CDs. Drivers of the BMW 7 (E38), 5 and5 series touring as well as the X5 can have AutoVision installedin their vehicles by their retailer as a retrofit kit.

A mobile cinema in the headliner

Johnson Controls has developed an easy-to-operateentertainment system with AutoVision. Similar to the monitorsmounted in the ceilings of long-haul airplanes, AutoVision isseamlessly integrated into the BMW models' headliners.

Themonitor folds down at the touch of a finger and can be stored inthe headliner when vehicle occupants are done using it. Weighingin at 2.5 kg and with dimensions of only 39 x 26 x 7 cm, theconsole is extremely compact and ensures that the rear-view ofthe driver is not considerably restricted. The high quality TFT(Thin Film Transistor) screen of the seven-inch monitorguarantees optimal image quality even for those passengerssitting at the sides.

The system is operated via the DVD player buttons or morecomfortably with an infrared remote control. AutoVision can alsoeasily be used at night since the buttons light up in the dark.To allow the driver to concentrate on driving, passengers in therear of the vehicle listen to their favourite videos over highquality hi-fi headphones.

The consumer in sight

The development of the new DVD video was the result ofextensive consumer research conducted in the United States andin Europe. In Germany, Johnson Controls initiated a consumerstudy together with the independent market research instituteIPSOS.

Ninety percent of the vehicle drivers polled, showed a highlevel of acceptance for the new DVD video system. The featuresfavoured most included the good image quality and the highentertainment value of AutoVision.

Simple installation

BMW engineers need approximately three hours to install theretrofit kit into the 7 (E38), 5 and 5 series touring as well asthe X5. The headliner is removed to fit a power cable and braceprofile. AutoVision is then mounted onto this profile.

BMW retailers will be providing this service as of now.

Further information is available from: Johnson Controls GmbHClaudia Steinhoff Industriestraße 20-30 D-51399 Burscheid Tel.:+49 21 74/65-32 43 Fax: +49 21 74/65-32 19

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