Drill/Driver also provides impact fastening.

Press Release Summary:




Featuring 2-speed 0-750/2,800 rpm motor, 18 V Model 26618-01 offers choice between high speed for small diameter drilling and high torque/low speed for drilling with spade bits or precision driving applications. Tool delivers up to 1,500 lb-in. torque when switched to impact mode. Powered by 18 V Litheon battery platform, drill/driver includes Electronic Motor Protection and Electronic Cell Protection, which protects batteries from overloading, overheating, and deep discharging.



Original Press Release:



Bosch's New 3-Mode 18V Impact Drill/Driver Offers Best-in-Class Torque, Versatility and Runtime



One tool speeds users through dozens of applications!

Mount Prospect, Ill., - The fastest growing segment within the professional cordless power tool category is impact drivers. Yet some users have been hesitant to adopt the tools because they still needed a second tool for drilling. Bosch Power Tools & Accessories is removing that barrier this week by introducing the 26618-01 18V Impact Drill/Driver. By combining typical drilling and driving capabilities with the added power of impact fastening, Bosch's multi-function tool offers pro users the power and versatility to tackle any number of common jobsite applications.

Bosch's 26618-01 offers an ideal combination of torque, speed and control, all within a single tool. The result is incredible versatility. A two speed motor (0-750 / 2,800 RPM) offers users the choice between high speed for small diameter drilling and high torque/low speed for drilling with spade bits or precision driving applications. When it's time to tackle large diameter driving and fastening applications, users can effortlessly switch to impact mode and let the tool's best-in-class 1,500 inch pounds of torque (3X more than a standard drill/driver) do all the work. Even with all that power, the tool's compact 7" length enables users to accomplish tough tasks in tight spaces.

Powered by Bosch's proven 18V Litheon battery platform, the 26618-01 offers best-in-class performance in almost every meaningful measure. Bosch's powerhouse delivers 40 percent faster screw driving, 20 percent faster drilling, two times more holes drilled per charge and 50 percent more screws driven per charge. This high level of performance is thanks to side-by-side battery and tool engineering that yields highly efficient power output in every application. The 26618-01 is compatible with Bosch's 18V Litheon SlimPack batteries, a feature unique to Bosch's tool that offers even greater user flexibility on the jobsite.

The 26618-01 is also built to withstand the rigors of heavy duty usage. Bosch's Electronic Motor Protection (EMP) , for example, protects the motor from damage due to stalling and Electronic Cell Protection (ECP) protects the batteries from overloading, overheating and deep discharging. The result is the best runtime and longest battery life in the cordless tool category, even in demanding applications.

In terms of user comfort, Bosch's soft grip surfaces reduce user fatigue and slippage, while the spring-loaded impact mechanism reduces the torque reaction and minimizes screw cam-out. Bosch's patent-pending white light LEDs offer phenomenal visibility in dark or tight spaces. A sturdy metal belt hook, which can be mounted on either side of the tool, frees up hands to move materials into place.

And the ultimate user benefit? The money saved by replacing multiple tools with one. The Bosch 26618-01 is currently retailing for $369 through authorized Bosch retailers nationwide. Bosch's multi-function Impactor technology is also available in the 26614-01 14.4V Litheon platform To find out more, users may visit www.boschtools.com or call 877-BOSCH-99.

About Bosch Power Tools and Accessories:

Bosch Power Tools and Accessories is one of the divisions within the $1 billion, 4,000 employee strong Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, which is the North American branch of the largest power tool and accessory manufacturer in the world, Robert Bosch GmbH. Bosch provides a complete line of corded and cordless power tools and accessories engineered to survive any jobsite and allow professionals to take control of their work. For more information, call toll free 877-BOSCH-99 (877-267-2499) or visit www.boschtools.com.

About Bosch Group:

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 271,000 associates generated sales of 46.3 billion euros (over $63 billion) in fiscal 2007. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in roughly 50 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than 3 billion euros for research and development, and applies for over 3,000 patents worldwide. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering."

In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, thermo-technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs approximately 25,000 associates in more than 70 locations throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico, with reported sales of $9.5 billion in fiscal 2007. For more information on the company, visit www.boschusa.com.

All Topics