LG Introduces New Mega-Capacity Front-Load Washing Machine With Turbo-Wash™ Technology

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., June 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics today launched the industry's largest capacity[1] front-load washing machine, designed to address American consumers' desires for saving time and energy.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110203/CG42292LOGO-d)

At 5.1 cubic feet—the largest in the industry—LG's new washer enables consumers to wash more clothes per load, even large, bulky items such as a king-sized bedding set, including the comforter. The new LG WM8000 model utilizes the power of TurboWash™ technology to offer outstanding cleaning performance and save consumers a full 20 minutes per load—even on larger loads of laundry[2]—while achieving the ENERGY STAR® "Most Efficient" rating.

Today's American women definitely want and need this time-saving benefit, according to results of a new national survey which revealed that women are spending, on average, eight hours per week doing laundry. In addition, the comprehensive LG laundry study showed that more than 75 percent of American women described doing laundry as "tedious." 

"Laundry is one of those household chores that many women don't look forward to," said James Fishler, senior vice president, marketing, LG Electronics USA.  "The good news is that with the new LG Mega-Capacity TurboWash™, they can wash more clothes in fewer loads and save 20 minutes per load which can free them up to spend time doing the things they really enjoy – spending time with family and friends and taking much-needed time for themselves."

American women said they feel that doing laundry (2.8 times each week) actually caused them to neglect other aspects of their life – namely exercise (30 percent), family time (28 percent) and their social calendar (20 percent), among other everyday tasks. When asked what they would do if they could cut the amount of time it takes to do laundry, those surveyed indicated that they would spend more time with family or friends or simply relax on their own for one of those rare moments of peace and quiet.

LG's new Mega-Capacity TurboWash™ washer came at just the right time, as summertime is peak laundry season, too.  More than one-third of respondents reported that they do more laundry during the summer months than during any other season. And, in anticipation of the towels, sports attire, camp clothing and guest bedding piling up, it's not surprising that more than one in five surveyed (22 percent) who have a washing machine identified fitting large loads of wash in their machine among the most sought-after functionalities.

More than one in five consumers (21 percent) cited energy efficiency among the most wanted capabilities in their washing machines. Earning the coveted 2012 ENERGY STAR® "Most Efficient" designation, the mega-capacity model utilizes LG's proprietary technology, the Inverter Direct Drive™ motor which uses fewer moving parts than conventional models to reduce energy consumption.

LG's revolutionary TurboWash™ technology combines the Spin and Rinse cycles to save consumers 20 minutes per load—while still maintaining high quality cleaning performance. What's more, LG's 6Motion™ technology utilizes six wash motions, Tumbling, Scrubbing, Filtration, Rolling, Stepping and Swinging, in various combinations based upon the fabric to penetrate deep into fabrics and provide outstanding cleaning performance. An upgraded control panel allows easy access to all functions and adds to the washing machine's stylish and elegant design.

"The average consumer spends the equivalent of one 9-5 workday per week doing laundry. That's a lot of time, and we're proud to offer appliances that make it an easier, quicker and more energy efficient process," added Fishler.

For added convenience, the LG Mega-Capacity TurboWash™ Front-Load Washer also features Smart Diagnosis™ technology, to help diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical issues, and limit costly and inconvenient service visits. Additionally, a downloadable smartphone application alerts customers to simple problems, such as a loose water hose or door being left ajar. 

The LG Mega-Capacity TurboWash™ Washer will be available to consumers in mid-June, at stores nationwide at a manufacturer's suggested price starting at $1,399 (White) / $1,499 (Graphite).

For more information on LG's laundry line, please visit http://www.lg.com/us/laundry/index.jsp.

*Wireless Internet connection required and sold separately.

About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and solar energy solutions, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme.  LG Electronics was named 2012 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.

Survey Methodology
An online research survey was completed among a random sample of 800 women, age 18+, among the general U.S. population.  Interviewing was conducted by Echo Research on behalf of LG Electronics USA. Respondents participated between March 30 and April 3, 2012. The margin of error associated with this level of reporting is +/- 3.5% at a 95% confidence level.

[1]  Based on Energy Star qualified residential washers as published by the DOE, May 17, 2012.

[2] Based on AHAM-HLW-1-2010 test protocol. Cotton/Normal or comparable cycle at default settings, 8-pound loads, front-load washers only. Excludes other LG manufactured products. Excludes quick wash or comparable cycles intended for small, lightly soiled loads only.

SOURCE LG Electronics USA