News Releases

05/07/2007

Hitachi Power Tools Introduces a New Line of 1.5Ah Lithium Ion Cordless Driver Drills, the DFL Series

NORCROSS, GA., May 7, 2007 – Hitachi Power Tools today announced a new series of cordless drills that use 1.5Ah lithium ion batteries which allows the user to charge and recharge the same battery 1500 times before it needs to be replaced, makes the overall weight of the drill significantly lighter and can also power Hitachi’s other cordless drill series (DMR, DVF3, DL – 14.4V and 18V respectively) for even more flexibility and value across the Hitachi cordless line. The DFL series includes an 18-Volt drill (DS18DFL) and a 14.4-Volt drill (DS14DFL) that are uniquely gold in color to draw attention to a unique opportunity for users to acquire the benefits of Lithium Ion battery technology at a very competitive price. Sold exclusively at Lowe’s- both come complete with an MP3 Player packaged inside!

Hitachi’s 1.5Ah Lithium Ion drills feature two-piece magnet motors and deliver 374in/lbs (DS18DFL) and 274in/lbs (DS12DFL) of torque to power through the toughest jobs with ease. Both come with two 1.5Ah batteries that have a life of approximately1500 cycles (# of times a user can recharge) as opposed to about 500 times for recharging NiMH or NiCd batteries. Lasting 3x longer, they do not have to be replaced as often saving the user money. And they maintain a steady charge from the moment the trigger is pulled until they need to be recharged- ensuring the user will tap the full power during use.

Both offer 2-speed transmissions controlled by a one-touch speed shift knob that allows the user to select between 0-400 or 0-1,200 RPMs. They are also some of the most compact and lightweight cordless drills in their class, measuring just over 8.5 inches and weighing just 3.7lbs (18V) and 3.5 lbs (14.4V). The battery technology reduces the weight by approximately a pound per tool which lessens fatigue and improves ease of use in tight or overhead applications.

The 1/2” keyless chuck on the DS18DFL and 3/8” keyless chuck on the DS14DFL allow for quick and easy bit changes. A 22-stage clutch is incorporated for high torque and precision driving applications. They feature Hitachi’s industry leading 5-year warranty and patented 5-position belt hook with integrated bit holder for added convenience. And their new aggressive, ergonomic design, coupled with a non-slip rubber grip, provides more control, comfort and safety.

The unique charger from Hitachi will charge 7.2V up to 18V lithium ion batteries. The proprietary technology in the Universal charger provides Hitachi Lithium Ion batteries with overload and discharge protection so they won’t overheat or lose power. Batteries charge in 30 minutes.

The Hitachi DS18DFL and DS14DFL cordless drills are packaged in durable molded plastic carrying cases that include a quick charger and two 1.5 Ah batteries. For more information including the full line of Hitachi products and support, please contact Hitachi Power Tools at 1-800-829-4752 or visit www.hitachipowertools.com.

Hitachi Power Tools carries an extensive line of professional grade tools and accessories for: woodworking, metalworking, concrete drilling and cutting, as well as a complete line of pneumatic nailers, staplers, compressors and collated fasteners. During the 1980s Hitachi Power Tools U.S.A. built its reputation for quality on the success of its pneumatic framing nailer and sliding compound miter saws. In 1995 Hitachi Power Tools U.S.A. was renamed Hitachi Koki U.S.A. to denote the addition of manufacturing to the United States.

From headquarters in Atlanta, GA, and satellite offices in Chatsworth CA and Toronto ONT, Hitachi Koki U.S.A. supports nearly 2000 retail locations carrying Hitachi tools and over 1000 authorized service centers. The field sales force and service technicians constantly provide information to engineers to refine and upgrade the product selection. Many tools in the line are designed and offered for use only in North America. With dozens of new models already in development, Hitachi Power Tools enters the 21st century with Hitachi Koki U.S.A. continuing to offer the highest level of professional power tools available.