Bosch Power Tools and Accessories recently introduced two categories of tools, namely the 18 V and 14.4 V Li-ion platforms and the CS5 circular saw considered ideal for demanding framers, roofers and deck builders.

Bosch’s first Litheon-powered offerings in the popular 18 V and 14.4 V size ranges build on the success of award-winning 36 V and 12 V Max Litheon cordless tool platforms.
The core of Bosch’s mid-range Litheon launch is a full range of cordless drill/drivers and hammer drill/drivers purpose-built to offer the best runtime, battery life, durability and performance in the industry.
“With our launches of 12 V Max and 36 V lithium ion tools, Bosch brought compact power and corded power innovation to the category at both ends of the cordless spectrum.  With our renowned Brute Tough drill design we brought unprecedented durability to the category. And with our Litheon system we brought the most unique battery technology to the category” said Edwin Bender, Bosch’s group product manager for the cordless tool category.
 “Now we’ve combined the best of these innovations to deliver the best-built lithium ion tools in the business. Guaranteed.”
For the everyday user who demands uncompromising toughness or a lighter duty user who prefers light weight and value, Bosch has developed six new tools to give each user exactly what he/she needs.
“Bosch’s Brute Tough lineup boasts best-in-class speed and runtime, perfect for the most demanding professional users and applications. All of the new Brute Tough products deliver phenomenal increases in speed and runtime versus the competition, especially in tough applications such as spade bit drilling, hole saw cutting and large fastener driving,” a company spokesman said.
“But that’s just half of the story. Bosch’s Brute Tough tools have always been known for unparalleled durability and toughness, and the new lineup takes things a step further. The combination of distinctive Bosch unibody motor construction, all-metal-gear train and DuraShield housing yield a tool that will last long-term and even withstand drops from 10 feet. Additional durability-enhancing features include a sturdy 25+1 clutch and tight-gripping half-inch metal chuck.
“In addition, Bosch has improved the tools’ ergonomics - better balance and more comfortable grip surfaces - to minimise user fatigue and increase long-term productivity.”
The new Brute Tough lineup, equipped with Bosch FatPack batteries, includes the 17618-01 18V Litheon Brute Tough Hammer D/D; the 17614-01 14.4V Litheon Brute Tough Hammer D/D; the 37618-01 18V Litheon Brute Tough D/D and the 37614-01 14.4V Litheon Brute Tough D/D.
For users who desire comfort, convenience and value, Bosch has upgraded its popular Compact Tough lineup.
“Known for lightweight, maneuverable performance at a friendly price point, Bosch’s Compact Tough tools still deliver great speed, power and performance. Even when using the SlimPack battery, the Compact Tough Drill/Drivers feature up to 50 per cent greater runtime than the competition,” said the spokesman.
The new Compact Tough tools also deliver improved ergonomics, a versatile 20-position clutch and a robust half-inch single sleeve chuck. Bosch Compact Tough tools come standard with Bosch SlimPack batteries. The lineup includes the 36618-02 18V Litheon Compact Tough D/D and the 36614-02 14.4V Litheon Compact Tough D/D
At the heart of the new tools is Bosch’s outstanding Litheon battery technology. Offering up to 35 per cent more runtime than the competition and two times more recharge cycles over the life of the battery, the Litheon system keeps users moving forward in any application. Bosch’s patented Electronic Cell and Motor Protection, meanwhile, protects both the battery and the tool by preventing the three main causes of battery failure - overheating, overloading and deep discharging, according to the company.
Another key feature of Bosch’s new mid-range Litheon family is the Flexible Power System, an option first made popular by Bosch’s 36V Litheon tools. The FatPack option delivers maximum runtime, while the SlimPack option offers light weight. All of Bosch’s Brute Tough and Compact Tough tools are compatible with both options.
Bosch is so confident in its Litheon system that it backs the platform with its Provantage three-year Tool Protection Plan and two-year Battery Replacement Plan. “Our Provantage Protection Plan is the best cordless tool programme in the industry,” says Bender. “No questions asked, no worries about number of charge cycles, no fine print. We guarantee our system - period.”
Bosch’s new Brute Tough and Compact Tough 14.4 V and 18 V offerings will be available nationwide October 2008. Also launching later this fall will be an impressive lineup of complementary Litheon tools, including an 18 V circular saw, an 18 V reciprocating saw and an 18 V heavy duty jobsite flashlight. All tools in the system will be compatible with both FatPack and SlimPack battery designs.
Each of the new Brute Tough and Compact Tough tools comes with two batteries and a 30-minute charger.

The CS5 circular saw
 For pro users seeking the clear line-of-sight of an in-line design circular saw and the maneuverability and value of a sidewinder, Bosch has introduced the new CS5 left-blade circular saw. Built to provide outstanding line of sight, power and durability, the CS5 is designed specifically to give core users the key features they need in a circular saw, says the company.
Approximately 87 per cent of construction pros are right-handed. For those users, Bosch’s CS5 is built around a distinctive left-side blade configuration. The result is a level of visibility and cutting accuracy unavailable on most sidewinder-style circular saws. The new design also in a more natural position, which means far greater comfort. It does away with the need for the use to crane his neck to the right to monitor cuts.
Along with the new blade configuration, Bosch has designed the CS5 to be the fastest cutting saw in its class. With a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers 6,200 RPM, the saw has more than enough muscle to quickly cut plywood and other dense materials.
Roofers and framers, in particular, will appreciate the CS5’s generous 56-degree bevel capacity and all users will benefit from its outstanding versatility in both cross-cutting and ripping applications.
An anti-snag lower guard enables the saw to progress smoothly, even through thinner materials where other guard styles tend to bind. And an improved spindle lock makes blade changes quick and easy. 
Beyond the saw’s performance, users will also enjoy the 10-pound saw’s light weight, comfortable design, durability and value. With a suggested retail price of only $99, Bosch’s CS5 is poised to quickly achieve best-in-class status.
The Bosch CS5 Circular Saw comes complete with a 24-tooth carbide blade and a blade wrench.  The saw is covered by a one year warranty and is available in October through authorised Bosch distributors nationwide.
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.