The global Start-Stop market for new vehicles could reach 49 million annually by 2020. In China, the company predicts 40% of all new vehicles will be Start-Stop in this time frame.

The technology automatically shuts off the engine when the car is idle and restarts it when the driver’s foot leaves the brake pedal. During this time, the vehicle’s electrical systems—from entertainment to lights—use energy from an advanced lead-acid battery rather than the gas-powered engine, thus saving fuel.

The company recently began making Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) at its facility in Changxing, China for use in Start-Stop vehicles. Johnson Controls also has plans to localize production of Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries to support demand for fuel-efficient Start-Stop technology as part of its portfolio of energy storage products.

In addition, the company debuted its 12V Lithium-ion battery for Advanced Start-Stop vehicles at the 16^th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition going on this week. The 12V Lithium-ion battery can increase fuel economy efficiency by up to 8%, according to the company. (Earlier post.)

China represents the major growth market for Johnson Controls. The company’s commitment to growing its business in China is evidenced by its building of a second global headquarters in Shanghai, which will open in 2017.