Tool Box Buzz

This week I had the pleasure of visiting the headquarters of DEWALT in Baltimore MD. I attended a special media event where DEWALT unveiled their latest cordless system the 20V MAX! This new system is very exciting and one that I think will be a huge hit.

I’ll be writing more about this in the months to come one I get samples for review. In the meantime check out the press release below.

TOWSON, Md. (June 2, 2011) – Today, DEWALT announces the launch of its new 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion system, which includes a compact drill/driver (DCD780C2), premium drill/driver (DCD980L2), two impact drivers (DCF885C2 and DCF885L2), compact hammer drill (DCD785C2), premium hammer drill (DCD985L2), reciprocating saw (DCS380L1), circular saw (DCS391L1), SDS rotary hammer (DCH213L2), right angle drill (DCD740C1) and work light (DCL040). The 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion line was designed with innovations for high performing, long-lasting and comfortable tools professionals demand.

The 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion tools are ideal for professionals tasked with heavy-duty applications, including remodelers, carpenters, woodworkers, cabinet installers, electricians, mechanical contractors, plumbers and maintenance professionals.

“We are dedicated to continually optimizing our tools so that they meet the needs of professionals in a variety of trades. As part of our 20 Volt MAX* development process, we conducted extensive research and uncovered a need for cordless tools that offer performance in a compact, lightweight profile,” said Chris Keffer, director of marketing, DEWALT.

“We designed the new 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion line to surpass professionals’ expectations and address the need for tools that have the power to withstand rigorous jobsite applications, while also providing comfort and ease of use.”

Performance

The new 20 Volt MAX* system features compact and premium tools that offer 1.5 Amp Hour (Ah), and 3.0 Ah Lithium Ion batteries which provide up to 35 percent more runtime than existing 18 Volt Lithium Ion battery technology, so that professionals can select the tool and battery power that is more appropriate for the application at hand.  

Ergonomics

The tools in the 20 Volt MAX* system feature a slim handle design that is more comfortable for extensive use based on significant field testing. In addition, the engineering and design team adjusted the product footprint and weight allocation for ideal balance and a lightweight feel.  The 3.0 Ah 20 Volt MAX* battery is 38 percent lighter than DEWALT’s existing DC9180 18 Volt Lithium Ion battery.  These improvements are essential to contractors who are using the tools all day long on the jobsite.

Innovative Features

Each item in the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion line includes innovative features that allow for productivity and ease of use on the jobsite. For example, the impact drivers (DCF885C2 and DCF885L2) feature a ¼-inch hex chuck capable of one-handed bit loading and each tool accepts one-inch bit tips directly into the chuck to minimize front to back length of the tool.

The new impact drivers also include three LED lights positioned in a circle around the chuck. With a 20-second delay, these lights provide visibility and help to eliminate shadows in dimly lit spaces. The remaining fastening and drilling tools in the line feature an LED light above the trigger to provide visibility that also includes the 20-second delay.

DEWALT also has included innovation in the battery chargers themselves, as they feature dual voltage charging capabilities, making them compatible with 12 Volt MAX* and 20 Volt MAX* DEWALT Lithium Ion batteries. The new 12 Volt MAX* – 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion heavy duty chargers, DCB101 and vehicle charger DCB119, offer high-visibility LEDs in the same blink patterns as existing DEWALT offerings, molded cord wrap for optimal storage, and quick charge time of 30 minutes for the 1.5 Ah and 60 minutes for the 3.0 Ah Lithium Ion batteries. The DCB119 vehicle charger offers a 90-minute charge time.

DEWALT-designed electronics are built into the switches of all 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion tools and lights. These electronics provide maximum life for the tools and batteries by helping to protect them from overheating, overloading and deep discharge during use. All premium drill models in the new 20 Volt MAX* line (DCD985L2, DCD980L2) feature a three-speed setting which is proprietary to DEWALT. The three-speed settings give professionals the option to select the most appropriate speed for a given task.

The new 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion system will be available in September 2011 anywhere DEWALT products are sold. The products are expected to retail from $49.00 to $489.00. Several combo kits will be available, and they are expected to retail from $279.00 to $579.00.

The products in the line will come standard with a three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract and 90-day money-back guarantee. The 1.5 Ah Lithium Ion battery will come with a two-year free service contract, and the 3.0 Ah Lithium Ion battery will come with a three-year free service contract. For more information on available accessories for the 20 Volt MAX* Lithium Ion tools, please visit www.dewalt.com.

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