MILWAUKEE -- Johnson Controls has announced plans to initiate restructuring activities that will result in an estimated pre-tax charge of $450 to $500 million in its 2008 fourth quarter.

The restructuring charge relates to cost-reduction initiatives in its automotive experience, building efficiency and power solutions businesses and includes workforce reductions and plant consolidations. The company expects to substantially complete the initiatives by early 2010.

The company said the restructuring within the automotive business is in response to the fundamentals of the European and North American automotive markets. The actions target reductions in the company's cost base by decreasing excess manufacturing capacity due to lower industry production and the continued movement of vehicle production to low-cost countries, especially in Europe.

Johnson Controls expects the restructuring plan will improve its long-term growth prospects in its highly competitive global markets.

For more information about Johnson Controls, go to: http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.