In July we were able to visit Wisconsin for the Milwaukee 2010 New Tools Event hosted at the Harley Davidson Museum. One of the things we saw at that event, but were unable to report on, was their new RedLithium batteries. This second-gen technology adds more run-time, higher performance and increased durability for the professional tradesman. Since Milwaukee Electric Tool was one of the companies that kicked off the industry-wide transition from NiCad to Lithium-ion batteries, it's great to see them continue to make inroads into better and better technology.

Fully compatible with all M12 and M18 cordless products currently available, the new RedLithium batteries will provide up to 40% more run-time, 20% more power and 50% more recharges than their former Lithium-ion products. The new technology will also operate in extreme temperatures as low as 0°F/-18°C and will run 20% cooler with fade free power and no memory effect. In short, users are able to instantly upgrade the performance, run-time and durability of the M12 and M18 tools they already own, simply by switching to the RedLithium battery packs.

“We are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that re-define end-user productivity, and will continue to raise industry standards for cordless performance and reliability. Milwaukee RedLithium batteries provide an exclusive integration of chemistry, cell design, construction and electronics to optimize the user’s experience and ultimately make users more productive on the jobsite.”

- Steven Richman, president of Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation

In the Fall of 2010, Milwaukee will introduce eight new cordless products powered by RedLithium. Users will then see a full transition to RedLithium batteries throughout all Milwaukee cordless products; including 30 unique products and 68 total offerings on the M12 system, 25 unique products and 60 total offerings on the M18 system and 15 unique products and 26 total offerings on the M28 system.

We love Lithium-ion battery tech, and that love is only surpassed by better Lithium-ion tech. As we've seen more and more battery advances from the likes of Bosch, Milwaukee, and others, we're encouraged that the technology has more growth in it and the future looks bright for better performance and greater run-time. Will the day come when we finally cut the cord for even the biggest, baddest tools? Perhaps. Until then, we'll savor the small victories and keep our eyes peeled for whatever is new in the realm of battery advances.

RedLithium Advantages

Performance

• Up to 40% More Run-Time

• Up to 20% More Speed

• Up to 20% More Torque

• Fade Free Power

Durability

• Operates Down to 0°F/-18°C

• Runs 20% Cooler

• Up to 50% More Recharges

• No Memory Effect

2010 Cordless Products Launching with RedLithium Battery Tech:

• 2432-20 M12 ProPEX Expander
• 2330 M12 Heated Jacket
• 2411-20 M12 Hammer Drill Driver
• 2458-20 M12 Palm Nailer
• 2426-20 M12 Multi-Tool
• 2632-20 M18 ProPEX Expander
• 2682-20 M18 5-3/8” Metal Saw
• 2615-20 M18 Right Angle Drill

About Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation, a Brookfield, Wisconsin-based subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI) (HKEx stock code: 669, ADR symbol: TTNDY) is an industry leading manufacturer and marketer of professional, heavy duty power tools and accessories. Products include the legendary SAWZALL reciprocating saws, M12, M18 & M28 LITHIUM cordless tools, HOLE-HAWG drills, portable band saws, circular saws, driver drills, hammer drills, rotary hammers, grinders, sanders and a line of Test & Measurement and Hand Tools. Accessories include SAWZALL blades, SWITCHBLADE self-feed bits, BIG HAWG hole cutters, THUNDERBOLT drill bits and SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty. For more information on the full line of Milwaukee power tools and accessories, please call 1-800-SAWDUST or visit www.milwaukeetool.com.