Within the past couple of months, both Dewalt and Bosch released their newly redesigned 20V/18V cordless drills and drivers. Although a bit behind, Milwaukee has also been working on a new line of drill/drivers that they say will offer extreme performance and unmatched productivity in a smaller and lighter package.
Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL tools will include several new features. Most significantly, these drills will be powered by a new brushless motor. Why brushless? Milwaukee says that their new motors work harder and live longer while reducing noise and cool more rapidly. And it’s true – brushless motors are all the rage in several markets these days since they offer greater efficiency and torque output.
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While not really new anymore, Milwaukee’s RedLithium battery tech offers great runtime, power, recharging times, and cold-weather performance. While the M18 and M12 RedLithium batteries provide a boost to all of Milwaukee’s cordless tools, it looks like the new M18 Fuel tools may be the first to be specifically designed to make the most out of the new battery technology.
Milwaukee is also hyping up their new RedLink Plus intelligence hardware and software system, which they say is the world’s most advanced power tool electronics package. The RedLink Plus system maximizes performance and protection by offering full-circle communication between tool, battery, and charger, and actively monitors the internal conditions to maintain ideal conditions. What does this all mean? When you cut through the marketing fluff, it sounds like the RedLink Plus is a combination of power regulation and over-current protection.
The first wave of Milwaukee M18 FUEL tools will include a compact drill driver (2603-22CT) and hammer drill driver (2604-22CT). Milwaukee will tease us with more information in January 2012, and says that the first wave of tools will be available in the Spring.
Milwaukee has not refreshed their M18 or M12 drill drivers in a long time, but it’s good to know that big changes are in the works. We’re excited at the news of brand new M18 drill/drivers, and will keep you updated as we learn more.
slipjointed
These look seriously awesome… the compact hammer drill driver is precisely what I am in the market for. I looked at the M12 version that was somewhat recently released, but I just can’t stand the in-handle batteries. I have really large hands but I still prefer the thinner grips.
Greg E
Cant wait!
ken m
I purchased 1 of the driver drills today at home depot. Special offer get a free battery with the drill. I used the drill today to install a new door on my garage. The drill is great. I set 3″ screws with no problems and the battery lasted for the total project. The best driver I have used.
John
Im a union glazier and work for a company that buys only dewalt drills and impacts. I’m hoping to change there mind since I bought the milwaukee fuel drill it by the the nicest most powerful drill I’ve ever used I love it.