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Mr Zahn, how do you explain the boom in cordless power tools?
Cordless technology has numerous user benefits. Compared with corded machines, cordless power tools provide significantly more freedom of movement and enable users to work in places where there is no power supply – as is the case in a number of gardens. Naturally, the same applies in the professional sector too, in gardening and landscaping, for example, or on building sites. Unlike a petrol machine, there’s no handling of fuel, and starting at the touch of a button is a standard feature. What’s more, there are no unwelcome emissions in operation. Cordless machines are very quiet-running, so there is no need for ear defenders. In view of these advantages, cordless technology has gained respect within a relatively short time and the market potential is correspondingly high. Further reasons for the current boom are that battery energy capacity is rising all the time, so cordless machines are getting more powerful and their weight is dropping. These features make cordless technology an increasingly attractive alternative to petrol power.
What are the benefits of the new STIHL compact cordless system?
On the one hand, everyday, private gardeners want powerful products that will make their gardening jobs easier and machines that last longer. On the other hand, they are looking for good value for money as, after all, they typically only use their garden power tools during the season. Our new STIHL compact cordless system more than satisfies both these expectations. Although a lot of know-how from the development of our professional cordless machines (the STIHL Cordless System) has gone into the STIHL compact cordless system, in terms of weight, handling and power, the four new cordless power tools are tailored directly to the needs of everyday, home-owner gardeners. Another very practical aspect is that all four machines can be operated with the same batteries. The customer only has to buy one battery for all the machines.
What is the way forward for cordless power tools in the market?
We believe cordless technology will continue to gain traction across all product segments and for all target user groups – from professional to casual gardeners. We proved last year with our cordless cut-off saw, the TSA 230, that we have succeeded in balancing power and weight in the cordless segment, so that the machines fulfill the exact demands of professional users.
Another milestone on the professional front is the introduction of the highly efficient AR 3000 backpack battery, which is compatible with nearly all machines and provides an energy supply for hours of use. Now, with the STIHL compact cordless system, we are additionally launching a product portfolio tailored specially to home-owner gardeners into the market. But we’re not stopping there: we will continue to develop.
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