MILWAUKEE -- Johnson Controls (JCI) has reported double-digit increases in fiscal 2010 fourth quarter net sales and income.

The company reported net sales of $9 billion vs. $7.9 billion in the fourth quarter of 2009, up 15 percent.

Income from business segments was $604 million compared with $409 million a year ago. JCI reported net income of $449 million vs. $300 million in the fourth quarter of 2009. Diluted earnings per share were 66 cents vs. 47 cents last year.

"We continued to capitalize on the improvement in our markets in the fourth quarter while gaining share and expanding in key geographic markets. In addition, we continue to benefit from the growth investments we maintained through the economic downturn and from our improved cost structure," said Johnson Controls Chairman and CEO Steve Roell.

JCI's Automotive Experience business segment saw sales in the quarter increase 18 percent to $4.1 billion versus $3.5 billion last year due primarily to higher industry production volumes and new program launches.

Power Solutions sales in the fourth quarter of 2010 increased 19 percent to $1.3 billion from $1.1 billion last year reflecting higher aftermarket and original equipment unit shipments as well as the volumes associated with the consolidation of a Korean joint venture. Aftermarket unit shipments increased 12 percent. The company said the increase was primarily due to incremental volume from Wal-Mart and growth in China where volumes were more than twice the prior year. Higher global automotive production resulted in a 19 percent increase in original equipment battery shipments worldwide.

Johnson Controls also affirmed the 2011 financial guidance it issued on Oct. 12,. Johnson Controls anticipates a sales increase of 9 percent, to approximately $37 billion. The 2011 expectations are the result of a global market recovery in its buildings business, modestly higher automotive production levels and growth across the businesses in emerging markets, as well as market share gains. Earnings are forecast to increase to approximately $2.30 to $2.45 per diluted share. Sales, earnings and margin improvements are expected in all three of its businesses in 2011.

"We have good momentum as we begin fiscal 2011 as evidenced by our strong financial performance in the fourth quarter of 2010 and the substantial increases in our automotive and buildings backlogs. Our objective is to consistently grow at twice the rate of our underlying markets," Mr. Roell said. "With our strong balance sheet and cash flows, we are accelerating our investments ahead of the recoveries of our markets to take advantage of growth opportunities and to further grow our share. I believe Johnson Controls is well-positioned to deliver record earnings in 2011 and sustainable, profitable growth over the long-term."