Makita’s XBU01Z blower runs on 18-volt batteries and is significantly quiet.Photo: Makita
Makita is starting its 100-year anniversary off with a bang by introducing its tools to 4-stroke engine technology.
Many industries have already switched from 2-stroke to 4-stroke engines due to their longer lifespans and fuel efficiency, but Makita is now introducing 4-stroke engines to their outdoor power equipment, such as blowers and trimmers.
Along with this switch is a focus on cutting the cord and transitioning over to 18-volt lithium-ion batteries that are interchangeable among over 100 different Makita tools.
Using its history as an electric motor company, Makita designs its own motors that are compatible with the batteries and promote efficiency.
Landscapers and hardscaping contractors need not worry about a long charging time either as the 3 amp battery can charge in 30 minutes while the 4 amp battery pack charges in 40 minutes.
“The last thing you want is a battery sitting on a charger,” said Rich Chapman, senior vice president of sales for Makita USA.
Along with the 4-stroke technology, Makita also boasts of extremely low emissions and noise. When demonstrating the XBU01Z blower at the GIE+EXPO, the sound was similar to that of a hairdryer. Weighing in at 8 pounds, this blower delivers 30 minutes of run time.
Another big change that Makita is making is the removal of Dolmar’s name on its products. While the company has owned the brand Dolmar since 1991, Domlar’s 2-stroke chainsaws will now be known as Makita as well.
