Page 14 - OPE September 2019

MARKETPLACE
Trimmers & Brushcutters
One-way cordless traffic?
Jochen Speer also acknowledges that, despite the rise of cordless, there are still reservations around chargeability in the commercial space.
Having said this, he adds: “Once a commercial operator has made the move, there’s no going back to petrol because we have products in our range that can stand up to all conditions.”
It’s still too early to say whether the latest products will deliver greater longevity, however. “Our commercial products have only been in the market for five to six years, and traditionally our products are used longer than that,” says Jochen, “so it’s a bit early to say whether product lifecycles are extending.
“But we believe that our battery-operated products are just as durable as our petrol machines as there’s very little that can go wrong with the engines, which is what usually drives replacement due to the cost of a cylinder or piston.
“For cordless products, the engine and battery don’t require servicing but the same amount of servicing is required on
the cutting attachment itself. Replacement of cutting heads or nylon line is just as normal.”
Key questions from commercial end users revolve around charging, says Jochen Speer: “How fast can I charge? How many batteries do I need for my daily operation? How much battery life do I need to get through a whole day if I can’t recharge on the go?”
Jamie Teague agrees, saying he still encounters reservations around run time, but says that’s an old school of thought, the sort of thinking that also reckons a petrol can never empties...
“You’ve still got to stop to refuel. With cordless, you either just apply a new battery or we’ve just launched a new battery pack which gives you up to four times the run time.
“Importantly, our battery is interchangeable right across our power
tool range; we use the same battery in our outdoor power equipment as is used across 200 different tools across the Makita range.”
And that’s just the sort of convenience that will turn more customers cordless and keep them loyal to a brand to boot. n
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HONDA UMK450 BRUSHCUTTER
Honda has expanded its four-
stroke range with the release of the UMK450 brushcutter. Powered by the latest 50cc version of Honda’s well- proven Mini 4 motor series, this unit blends high power and good economy with Honda’s enviable easy-start reputation and the convenience of not having to mix fuel.
The UMK450 has the power and torque to drive a three-tooth blade for heavy grass
cutting but also comes with a nylon head for lawn edging. Coupled with an anti- vibration mounted bull bar handle and comfortable full harness, this lightweight but durable unit can be used for long periods with lower impact on the user.
It should suit both the demanding contractor and the lifestyle block owner who needs to tackle the tough stuff as well as the close-in, tidying up jobs.
www.powermarine.co.nz