Lithium-Ion Gains More Players

The lithium-ion battery pool just got deeper with DeWalt and Bosch both launching lines, following Milwaukee's launch last year and Makita's recent roll-out.

In November DeWalt announced its 36-volt lithium-ion tool line, which will target corded tool users by combining the power previously only available in corded tools with a manageable cordless weight (comparable to 18-volt tools). Rather than utilizing existing lithium-ion platforms, the company partnered with A123 Systems to design batteries from scratch to ensure they have the right amount of power, runtime, and durability suitable for high-performance power tools. The tools themselves also have been designed from the ground up, so they include a variety of new user-friendly features. Seven tools will be available initially, including a hammerdrill, a circ saw, and a jigsaw. (800-433-9258, www.dewalt.com)

At the STAFDA show in November, Bosch announced the launch of long-lasting 10.8-volt and 36-volt lithium-ion-powered tools called "Litheon." The company says the two voltages maximize the advantages that lithium ion provides: 10.8-volters provide more power for ultra-compact tools, while the 36-volters provide the power and strength without a weight penalty for tools that were previously only available corded. The company, for example, will launch a 36-volt Bulldog 1-inch cordless rotary hammer, which it says is the first of its kind in cordless. The line also will initially include a 10.8-volt Pocket Driver, a compact drill/driver half the size of the company's nicad Compact line, and a 10.8-volt I-Driver, with a five-point articulating head for close-quarter applications. (877-267-2499, www.boschtools.com)