Signed agreement to form a global automotive interiors joint venture between Johnson Controls and Yanfeng Automotive Trim Systems Co., a subsidiary of Huayu Automotive Systems Co. (HASCO), the component group of Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. (SAIC).
According to a release, the agreement is a noncash transaction comprised of asset contributions by the two parties that will create the largest automotive interiors company in the world with revenues of approximately $7.5 billion. Yanfeng will hold the majority 70 percent share in the joint venture, and Johnson Controls will have a 30 percent share.
“Joining our two interiors businesses is a natural extension of our already very successful existing partnership with Yanfeng in automotive seating, which has flourished over the past 15 years. It creates a strong combined company with a market leading position and a foundation for sustained global growth,” said Alex Molinaroli, Johnson Controls chairman and chief executive officer. “This also aligns with Johnson Controls’ corporate commitment to China, which is increasingly becoming a major center for the global automotive industry.”
The new company will be headquartered in Shanghai with global engineering, development and customer centers in the United States, Europe, China, Japan and India. The product portfolio will include instrument panels and cockpit systems, door panels and floor consoles. The transaction is subject to limited conditions and is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2015. The agreement excludes certain facilities in Johnson Controls’ existing networks. Johnson Controls will continue to operate those from its network as part of Johnson Controls’ Automotive Experience business.
