Panasonic Expands Its Lineup Of "Tough IP" Cordless Power Tools With Two New Models

NEWARK, N.J., Oct. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic will announce the introduction of two new Li-Ion cordless power tools to its Tough IP™ professional-grade product offering at the ASSEMBLY Show 2013. Featuring dust and water resistant technology, the power tools have received an IP56 under international standards administered by the International Electro Technical Commission (IEC), and will be available this fall via Panasonic Tough IP Dealers nationwide and at www.panasonic.com/cordlesstools.

The two models include an 18V cordless high torque impact wrench and a 14.4V cordless multi impact and drill driver. The new models are protected by Panasonic's unique GuardION system, feature an LED work light and are powered by Panasonic's 4.2Ah Lithium Nickel high capacity batteries – the highest rated battery capacity in the cordless tool market.  These tools have the power and versatility to handle the most demanding projects, both on the assembly line and on the worksite, while increasing comfort, control and accuracy for the user.

"At Panasonic, we understand that jobsites often face extreme conditions," said John Olson, Group Manager Panasonic Power Tool Division. "The newest additions to our cordless power tool line are engineered to perform in tough conditions and prove that you don't have to sacrifice power or precision to reap the benefits of having a lighter, more ergonomically-friendly tool." 

Panasonic EY7552 Cordless High Torque Impact Wrench
Available October, 2013

The EY7552LS2S/EY7552X Cordless High Torque Wrench demonstrates that big power can come in a small package; the Panasonic EY7552 Cordless High Torque Impact Wrench is a fast and powerful impact wrench delivering up to 346 Ft. lbs (470 Nm) of torque. It is the first tool to feature Panasonic's patented Twin Hammer technology – increasing torque, working speed and durability. The Panasonic EY7552 Cordless High Torque Impact Wrench reduces fatigue and strain on the user with a lightweight, balanced design and a cushioned grip while the patented Twin Hammer design reduces vibration and overall noise. Equipped with a variable speed trigger and electric brake, the high torque impact is well-equipped for general construction, as well as maintenance and repair for automotive, heavy equipment / off road, and recreational vehicle applications.

The EY7552 is compatible with all of Panasonics 18V Lithium-Ion or Lithium-Nickel battery packs. Panasonic's EY9L51B 4.2Ah Lithium-Nickel battery pack has the highest rated capacity battery pack on the market.  Delivering high output with low heat generation resulting in longer lifetime and extended run time.  In addition the EY7552X utilizes Panasonic's unique GuardION system.  The GuardION system monitors each battery cell during battery charging and during tool use to prevent over discharging and overheating of the battery pack thus insuring long life.

The EY7552X uses a self-diagnostic universal battery charger which electronically monitors the condition of each battery cell in the battery pack during the charging process to deliver full charging with minimal heat generation. The EY7552LS2S is sold in a kit version or as a tool body only.  The kit comes with a tool, two – 4.2Ah Lithium-Nickel battery packs, and charger.

Features Summary:

• Patented Twin Hammer Design delivers high power with little vibration and reduced overall noise. 
• High Power:  346 Ft. Lbs (470 Nm). 
• Smallest in it Class - less than 9" in length
• Lightest In Its Class - 5.7 lbs with battery pack.
• 4.2 Ah High Capacity Lithium Nickel Battery
• 1/2" Square Drive with Hog Ring  and  Through Hole Socket Retention
• Variable speed / Reversible
• Electric brake
• IP56 Rated

Panasonic EY7549X Cordless Multi Impact and Drill Driver
Available November, 2013

The EY7549X Cordless Multi Impact and Drill Driver (MSRP $283) eliminates the need to carry three tools. The Panasonic EY7549X Cordless Multi Tool features a unique dual-mode switching system in a single, lightweight tool that transforms it from a drill and driver to an impact driver or wrench with the flick of a switch. The Dual Mode Switching Design allows changing from the impact mode to the drill driver mode with the flip of a switch – simple and easy. Utilize the impact mode for driving screws and fastening nuts and bolts with high speed and high power. The drill driver mode features 2 speeds and delivers drilling and driving capability with the convenience of a 21 stage clutch for precise control. 

Only weighing 4.5 lbs with the battery pack, this compact tool delivers high power (1,327 in. lbs., 3,200 ipm) with minimal kickback to the user; the tool features a one-touch release for instant removal of the keyless chuck. The Panasonic EY7549X Cordless Multi Tool is ideal for general industry, construction, maintenance, auto repair, and light manufacturing.

The EY7549X is compatible with all of Panasonics 14.4V Lithium Ion or Lithium Nickel battery packs. Panasonic's EY9L45B 4.2Ah Lithium-Nickel battery pack is the highest rated capacity battery pack on the market. Lithium Nickel technology increases the capacity without an increase in size or weight and delivers high output with low heat generation, resulting in longer lifetime and extended run time. In addition, the EY7549X utilizes Panasonic's unique GuardION system. The GuardION system monitors each battery cell during battery charging and during tool use to prevent over discharging and overheating of the battery pack thus insuring long life.

The EY7549X uses a self-diagnostic universal battery charger which electronically monitors the condition of each battery cell in the battery pack during the charging process to deliver full charging with minimal heat generation. The EY7549X is sold as a tool body only and includes the removable 1/2" Keyless chuck and 1/4" Hex quick change adapter. 

Features Summary:

• Replaces two-speed variable speed drill, 1/4" hex quick change impact driver and impact 1/2" square drive impact wrench
• One-touch release allows for instant removal of the keyless chuck
• Impact mode - the multi drill and driver is instantly set for high speed and heavy-duty fastening in wood, metal and concrete
• 1/2'' square drive with hex sockets to fasten lag bolts, carriage bolts, and concrete anchors 
• High power - 1,327 in. lbs., 3,200 ipm
• Light weight - 4.5lbs with the battery pack
• Drills up to 120 holes 1-3/16" diameter into 2"x4" material on a single charge in drill mode
• Installs 450 self-drilling (5/32" x 1/2") into SPC on a single charge in impact mode
• Cushioned grip helps reduce fatigue.
• Variable speed trigger
• Built-in LED light with auto shut-off timer
• IP56 Rated

Rated Tough by IEC
Each of Panasonic Tough IP Cordless Power Tools were awarded a rating of IP56¹ by the IEC (according to IEC60529) classifying them "Dust-protected" and "Protected against powerful water jets." The two numbers in the rating are for dust resistance and water resistance respectively.

To achieve an IP rating, each of the Tough IP tools underwent dust and water resistance testing by the IEC.  The IEC testing protocol put the tools in an environment where they were exposed separately to both heavy dust and water jets. After each separate test, the tool is checked to ensure it still continues to function properly. The higher the IP rating, the stronger the tool can resist dust and water.  For more information on IEC IP Ratings, please visit www.iec.ch.

For more information on the Panasonic EY7552 Cordless High Torque Impact Wrench, the Panasonic EY7549X Cordless Multi Tool or the complete line of Panasonic Cordless Power Tools and Panasonic dealers, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/assemblytools or call 1-800-338-0552.

About Panasonic Eco Solutions North America  
Based in Newark, NJ, Panasonic Eco Solutions North America is a division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. The company provides a full range of renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions including the planning, implementation, financing, and maintenance to corporate and private sector organizations in both the U.S. and Canada. In Interbrand's 2013 Annual "Best Global Green Brands" report, the Panasonic brand ranked number four, the highest ranked electronics brand in the report. (http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/Best-Global-Green-Brands/2013/Best-Global-Green-Brands-2013.aspx)  

To learn more about the company and its eco construction solutions, visit http://www.panasonic.com/business/pesna/eco-construction-solutions/.  Follow Panasonic on Twitter @PanasonicUSA; additional company information for journalists is also available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE Panasonic