At a GIE+EXPO 2015 press conference on October 21, Makita USA highlighted two key product innovations for its broad lineup of handheld power equipment. The company also announced a major brand integration that's been underway since the beginning of the month.
Makita USA acquired Dolmar and began manufacturing Dolmar-branded equipment in 1991. Makita has now begun the process of transitioning off of the Dolmar brand. The company's broad lineup of string trimmers, hedgetrimmers, edgers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, pole saws and power cutters (concrete saws) will now be offered under the Makita brand and painted that familiar Makita teal.
The Makita product lineup is highlighted by three key product innovations.
MM4 4-Stroke Engine Technology. Makita is expanding its lineup of equipment powered by 4-stroke engine technology. A 4-stroke engine eliminates the need for the end-user to mix oil and gas. The product lineup includes handheld and backpack blowers, string trimmers, hedgetrimmers, edgers, pole pruners and power cutters. A 4-stroke chainsaw is in development.
Cordless lithium ion battery-powered equipment. Makita says it has the world's largest tool lineup powered by an 18V lithium ion slide-style battery. Now, two of those 18V batteries can provide 36V of power to a variety of outdoor power equipment including a handheld leaf blower, string trimmer, hedgetrimmer and chainsaw. The trimmer and blower also feature brushless motor technology.
According to Makita, run times on the 36V products range from 45 to 77 minutes. Charge times are in the 30- to 40-minute range.
More detailed product information and photos are forthcoming, so keep an eye on the Product Guide here at greenindustrypros.com.
