IWF: Bosch presents compact cordless drill/drivers
Mount Prospect, Ill. – Continuing its successful development of powerful yet compact professional duty products, Bosch Power Tools & Accessories introduces the Compact Class 18-Volt Drill/Driver (DDB180) and the 18-Volt Hammer Drill/Driver (HDB180).

Bosch is the first manufacturer to offer a professional grade ultra compact platform in the 18V class. The Compact series achieves a new level of performance in an extremely lightweight package, offering the size and weight of some competitive 12V class tools with 18V power and run-time. Additionally, users get the opportunity to get into the rapidly expanding 18V lithium-ion platform from Bosch. The chance to add a hammer drill mode is icing on the cake.

At 7.6 inches, the DDB180 features the shortest length in the compact class and at 3 lbs., weighs nearly 20 percent less than competitors. Despite the compact size, the DDB180 delivers 400 In. lbs. of max torque – more than sufficient to drive most common fasteners and drill bits. The two-speed drive train lets users quickly choose between high-torque (0-400 rpm) or high-speed (0-1,300 rpm) operation depending on the bit size. The combination of features means users will enjoy increased versatility, maneuverability and endurance with reduced fatigue.

The HDB180 offers the most compact and lightweight design in the category with an 8” head length and a weight of 3.2 lbs. Providing 360 in. lbs. of max torque, the HDB180 can generate up to 21,000 beats per minute (BPM) and has two speed settings: high torque (0-500 RPM) for larger spade bits or high speed (0-1,450 RPM) for smaller diameter bits. In addition, the Hammer Drill mode is great for drilling into brick or mortar without penalizing the user with significant size and weight increases. Sinking Tapcon™ anchors just got a lot more convenient!

With each tool, the 3/8” keyless chuck with Auto-Lock™ offers users the versatility to accomplish 90 percent of the most common drilling and driving applications and makes bit changes simple and quick with one hand. They deliver outstanding control with a 15+1 clutch and sensitive variable speed trigger to enable users to dial in their preferences to match the specific task at hand. An LED light illuminates dark work spaces and helps increase visibility, accuracy and safety. The optimized soft-grip handle further enhances user control by reducing fatigue and offering a secure grip.

Both tools are compatible with Bosch’s exclusive Flexible Power System, enabling users to choose between either the 18V Litheon SlimPack or Fat Pack platforms depending upon the application at hand.

The DDB180-02 ($159) and HDB180-02 ($179) come standard with two SlimPack batteries, a 45-minute charger and a sturdy hard-sided storage case. Both are also available as bare tools, without batteries and charger, and are covered by Bosch’s industry-best cordless tool warranty, they are now available through authorized retailers nationwide.

About Bosch Power Tools and Accessories:

Bosch Power Tools and Accessories is one of the divisions within the $1 billion, 4,000 employee strong Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, which is the North American branch of the largest power tool and accessory manufacturer in the world, Robert Bosch GmbH. Bosch provides a complete line of corded and cordless power tools and accessories engineered to survive any jobsite and allow professionals to take control of their work.

About Bosch Group:

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 275,000 associates generated sales of $53 billion (38.2 billion euros) in fiscal 2009. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than $5 billion (3.5 billion euros) for research and development, and applies for some 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.

In the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial drives and control technology, power tools, security and communication systems, packaging technology, thermotechnology, household appliances, solar energy and healthcare products. Having established a regional presence in 1906, Bosch employs over 20,000 associates in more than 70 locations, with reported sales of $7.3 billion in fiscal 2009.

SOURCE: Bosch Group
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