Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach Stuttgart. Media und Public Relations. Leitung: René Ziegler Presse-Forum:

Transcription

1 [ 01 ] Bosch Power Tools achieves record sales once again [ 02 ] Bosch Power Tools relies on user experience [ 03 ] Bosch Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect [ 04 ] Bosch EasyCut 12 for home and garden [ 05 ] The Ixo garden set from Bosch [ 06 ] Complete high-pressure washer system from Bosch [ 07 ] An effortless way to a beautiful garden with innovations from Bosch [ 08 ] Bosch garden tools: Record due to consistent focus on users Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach Stuttgart Media und Public Relations Leitung: René Ziegler Presse-Forum:

2 Press release Growth from garden tools: Bosch Power Tools achieves record sales once again Focus on users as the guarantee for success July 28, 2016 PI 9314 PT MS Bosch achieves best gardening year in the company's history Sales up by six percent 40 percent of sales from new products such as connected robotic lawnmowers and intelligent cordless tools Stuttgart/Leinfelden Bosch Power Tools remains competitive with garden tools on course for a new record: Sales in 2015 rose to 294 million euros. Nominally, that corresponds to growth of six percent, in local currency it amounts to four percent growth was another very successful year in gardening for Bosch Power Tools we have beaten our record sales from the previous year, explained Henning von Boxberg, President of Bosch Power Tools, at the Garden press conference in Stuttgart. We are consistently aligning our products to user requirements making gardening easy. One example is our connected robotic lawnmowers, which save a great deal of time on lawn care. The new garden tools from Bosch such as intelligent cordless tools as well as connected robotic lawnmowers have been a hit with customers: Bosch Power Tools generated about 40 percent of its sales with products that have been on the market for less than two years. With over 90 percent of the sales, Europe remains our most important sales market. User Experience : focus on users as the guarantee for success Innovations designed for the user this is the principle behind the Bosch Power Tools System. We have set up a new team tasked with focusing solely on user experience, explained von Boxberg. The aim is to make working with Bosch garden tools as easy as possible for the user. To do this, we involve users in the development of products and services from the very beginning and adapt both functions and designs to the needs of the target group in question. That is what he considers to be the basis of Bosch Power Tools innovative strength and the cornerstone of their growth strategy. Focusing on user experience is our way of developing fascinating products in order to achieve success and growth continu- Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach Stuttgart, Germany Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

3 ally. The new robotic lawnmower models are one such example, according to von Boxberg. Indego robotic lawnmower: new model for small- to medium-sized gardens Robotic lawnmowers are a key growth segment for Bosch Power Tools. Innovation and consistent product development are key growth drivers: The Indego from Bosch is the only robotic lawnmower on the market that mows the lawn systematicly in lanes. Since last year, the Indego Connect can also be controlled from any location by smartphone or tablet. Thanks to user analyses, Bosch is now focusing increasingly on autonomous lawn care for smaller lawn areas of up to 400 square meters as well, which account for approximately 75 percent of all private gardens. The new Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect robotic lawnmowers from Bosch are particularly suited to urban environments and are ideal for users with small- to medium-sized gardens who would prefer to be enjoying their free time in the garden instead of mowing the lawn. They are 50 percent smaller, half as loud as existing models and can mow up to 400 square meters. Users can save time from the very first use: A new calender function suggests the optimum mowing cycle and makes manual programming unnecessary. EasyCut 12: a new sawing dimension in the garden Cordless tools contribute substantially to the economic growth of Bosch Power Tools. In 2015, 35 percent of the company s sales came from cordless products. Bosch wants to build on this success with innovations such as the EasyCut 12 an all-purpose saw with new NanoBlade saw blade technology. When sawing with jigsaws and saber saws, many users find it difficult to saw accurately, due to the typical stroke movement with high vibrations. The solution is a saw blade with a revolving micro chain consisting of chain links that are four millimeters in size similar to a chainsaw, but miniaturized. With NanoBlade, Bosch is taking sawing to the next level, said Henk Becker, member of the executive management of Bosch Power Tools with responsibility for development, production, quality and also for power tools and measuring tools for professionals and do-it-yourselfers. With the EasyCut 12, all users can saw easily, vibration-free and effortlessly. This is ideal for applications in the garden: When cutting branches, these branches no longer sway back and forth as a result of the sawing motion. The EasyCut 12 is part of the Power4All cordless system which comprises DIY and garden tools. Countless power tools, from grass trimmers to hammer drills, can be operated using the same lithium-ion battery. This enables do-ityourselfers to do without batteries and chargers that they do not need, and at the same time to save money. Page 2 of 4

4 Ixo Garden: versatile cordless screwdriver for the urban gardener With Ixo Garden, we are also bridging the gap between DIY and garden applications. The Ixo is the first cordless screwdriver that can shape small ornamental trees on balconies and patios and trim lawn edges. This is made possible with the new grass and shrub shear attachment. With this, the Ixo proves again that it is far more than a conventional power tool. With the grass and shrub shear attachment, the Ixo links to extraordinary attachments such as the Ixo BBQ for lighting charcoal, the Ixo Vino for opening wine bottles and the Ixo Spice for seasoning meals. In total, the Ixo Collection includes nine different attachments, making the smallest cordless screwdriver from Bosch more versatile than ever before. The Ixo s success story began in 2003: Since then more than 15 million units have been sold, making it the world s top-selling power tool. High-pressure washers: the perfect tool for every job Bosch Power Tools always has the individual needs of different users in mind. It s not just DIY enthusiasts or amateur gardeners but a wide range of people, from beginners to passionate users, who have high requirements, explained Becker. The focus is on providing the right tool for everyone, which is why Bosch Power Tools also divides the high-pressure washer segment into the Easy, Universal and Advanced classes, each with their own performance and equipment. This allows the user to select the perfect tool to match their requirements. Bosch is expanding the range consistently: In addition to the handy Easy class tool and two Advanced models, there are three new Universal tools and two additional Advanced tools. Bosch is thereby covering all applications from occasional, light cleaning and more demanding tasks through to cleaning especially stubborn dirt a broader application range than ever before. Press photo: 1-PT Contact persons for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. Page 3 of 4

5 The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 4 of 4

6 Press release Learning from users developing for users: Bosch Power Tools relies on user experience Development system for exciting products July 28, 2016 PI 9315 PT MS Iterative development process based on unresolved user problems Fast concept review thanks to user involvement Fulfilling customer needs guarantees success Innovation designed for the user this is the principle behind the Bosch Power Tools System. This is also the case with garden tools such as the Indego 400 Connect robotic lawnmower, the EasyCut 12 all-purpose saw for home and garden with completely new saw blade technology and particularly powerful high-pressure washers. We involve users in the development of products and services from the very beginning and adapt both functions and designs to the needs of the target group in question. We call this the user experience approach, or UX for short, explains Marc Jost-Benz, who is responsible for UX at Bosch Power Tools. We learn from users, we develop for users our aim is to provide them with exciting products which fulfill their requirements. Iterative development process based on unresolved user problems This incorporates four crucial phases which are implemented multiple times: User observation, analysis, product design using rapid prototyping and user tests. The first and most important step in any UX project is gaining insights, Jost-Benz explains. A wide range of elements come together to achieve this, from classic market research methods such as individual interviews or group discussions to accompanying and observing users as they work in the garden. We go out to meet the customers as much as possible. We listen and observe carefully and thoroughly in order to find out what work they carry out and how they use products on a daily basis: What challenges are associated with this usage? How have they solved problems so far? What do they want? For example, an important discovery regarding robotic lawnmowers was that a number of users felt that current models were oversized for their gardens. Many also wanted installation to be made easier. When currently available jigsaws and sabre saws were being used, it quickly became clear that some Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach D Stuttgart Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

7 users were finding it difficult to saw precisely due to the characteristic stroke movement and strong vibrations. Experts identified optimization potential for high-pressure washers in terms of their performance and compactness. The second phase focuses on analyzing these observations and determining requirements for products and services from the users needs. In order to do this, we organize interdisciplinary workshops: Staff members from different divisions such as product management, development, sales and marketing analyze, cluster and prioritize the customers requirements and use them to develop ideas. This results in first drafts which can be used to pursue the most promising concepts. The aim: A smaller robotic lawnmower with simpler installation, a vibration-free sawing system and a more compact high-pressure washer which delivers the same high performance. In the third phase, these become prototypes. It is incredibly important to us that our ideas are tested quickly and, crucially, where the tools will eventually be used where the user is, explains Jost-Benz. In order to do this, a number of different prototypes are created according to what is to be tested in each case: Paper models which are well-suited for examining operating concepts, foam models which allow the size, proportions and ergonomics of a product to be tested, and very detailed prototypes made of modeling clay, clay or plastic, which demonstrate the future product s appearance and design. Functional prototypes are key; they exhibit individual or all functions of the product, such as operating interfaces or switch concepts and grip concepts. The fourth phase the test phase focuses on listening and observing carefully, in the same way as at the start of the process, to determine any additional requirements. Do the users find the product useful? Do they find it easy to use? Do they have fun using it? Do they find the tool attractive and aesthetically pleasing? These are key questions which need to be answered at this stage. With regards to the robotic lawnmowers, a number of different aspects were evaluated during the development process, from the intuitive operability of a new calendar function to simpler hardware installation. The newly developed saw blade technology, which resulted in a mini chainsaw with a revolving micro-chain, also went through multiple phases with different testers and prototypes. The same applies to the development of more compact high-pressure washers which deliver the same high performance. Our development process is a spiral: We repeat these four phases as many times as is necessary to achieve a result that we can be truly satisfied with because the product fully meets the users needs, explains Jost- Benz. For us, UX means complete customer proximity from the very start. This is the cornerstone of our innovative strength and continually allows us to successfully create technology which is Invented for life. Page 2 of 3

8 Press photos: 1-PT-22403, 1-PT Contact person for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 3 of 3

9 Press release Small and quiet robotic lawnmowers: Bosch Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect Optimized lawn care in urban environments July 28, 2016 PI 9316 PT MS Designed for maintaining small to medium lawns The new calender function makes manual programming unnecessary Proven LogiCut navigation system for efficient mowing in lanes The Connect model can be operated from wherever you are using the app With the Indego 400 and the Indego 400 Connect, Bosch makes users first experience with autonomous lawn care straightforward. There will now be two models that are optimized for lawn care in urban environments: Compared to existing models, they are 50 percent smaller, only half as loud and mow up to 400 square meters. With that the focus is always on the users and their needs: Interest in autonomous lawn care is gathering pace. The advantages are obvious: Once installed, the users can sit back and relax in their gardens. So far, the focus of autonomous lawn care was on large lawn areas of up to 1200 square meters. User analyses show, however, that the majority of all lawns in private gardens (that is to say around 75 percent) are less than 400 square meters in size. This is where Bosch s new robotic lawnmowers come in. As with all Indego models, the Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect work completely independently within a pre-defined area. This area is marked out with a supplied boundary wire before the robotic lawnmower is used for the first time. The Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect calculate the size of the area to be mowed by traveling along the entire length of this boundary wire once, using sensors and a software to measure the garden. To optimize the task of mowing the calculated area, the models combine two functions: The proven LogiCut navigation system for efficient mowing in lanes, and the new calendar function, which eliminates the need to manually program the mowing cycle. Lawn care made to measure thanks to the intelligent calendar function The new calendar function automatically calculates the ideal mowing cycle based on the actual lawn size, the area that can be mown in one battery charge, the re- Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach D Stuttgart Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

10 quired charging times, and the breaks that must be observed, for example when people are likely to be taking a siesta or at the weekend. Manual calendar programming is no longer necessary. The frequency of mowing, the days and times at which mowing should take place, and its duration, are all automatically determined. It goes without saying that these can be adjusted by the user flexibly if you wish, you can specify the frequency of mowing or the days on which you want your Indego to get to work. The intelligent calendar function adapts to your requirements. As a result, the users can rest easy in the knowledge that the entire lawn will always be maintained efficiently, without the need for any intervention on their part. Not only does this save the users time, but they will always know when and for how long the mower will be in action. Proven LogiCut technology and Bosch Smart Gardening The Indego 400 and the Indego 400 Connect use the proven LogiCut navigation system for systematic mowing in lanes. The result: A cutting rate that is 50 percent faster than comparable robotic mowers that operate on the basis of a random navigation system. Besides this, the Indego 400 Connect can easily be controlled from wherever you are using the Bosch Smart Gardening app. Data is transferred by GSM, the world s most widely used standard for mobile communications. Time savings are not just restricted to the use of the robotic lawnmower self-explanatory symbols ensure that it takes very little time and effort to install the base station, which has undergone a design overhaul: Its more compact dimensions mean that it can now be placed in a corner and requires less space overall. It also now features an integrated cable conduit to store the boundary wire, which makes installation easier. From February 2017, the Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect will be available on the market for 899 euros and 1099 euros respectively. The Bosch Smart Gardening app, which works with the Indego 400 Connect, is available for Android and ios smartphones and tablets. It is available free of charge from the Google Play store and the Apple App Store. All the prices stated are recommended retail prices including VAT. Subject to change. Page 2 of 4

11 Specifications* Indego 400 / Indego 400 Connect Battery voltage/capacity 18 V lithium-ion/2.5 Ah Recommended lawn size 400 m² Maximum slope 15 (27%) Cutting width 19 cm Cutting height 30, 40 or 50 mm Recommended height of cut grass 3 to 5 mm Dimensions (length x width x height) 44.5 x 36.4 x 20.2 cm 63 db (about as loud as a normal Guaranteed sound power level conversation) Functions Smart Gardening app - start mowing - pause mowing - return to docking station - set calendar - attention alerts - blade change advice - disable mower - show position and progress - show runtime - show total tool service life - view FAQ - access telephone/ support - view and buy accessories - remote software updates Weight including battery 8 kg Comes complete with Base station with four nails for securing, 100-m area boundary wire incl. 180 fixing nails, 2 cable connections, power supply unit Recommended retail prices Indego 400: 899 including VAT Indego 400 Connect: 1099 *All figures are provisional and based on internal measurements. Press photos: 1-PT-22405, 1-PT-22406, 1-PT Contact person for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. Page 3 of 4

12 The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 4 of 4

13 Press release The first all-purpose saw with NanoBlade : Bosch EasyCut 12 for home and garden Achieving a precise cut quickly and conveniently July 28, 2016 PI 9317 PT MS Saw blade with revolving micro-chain for vibration-free sawing Cordless multi-saw that can be used both indoors and outdoors Simple sawing for occasional gardeners and inexperienced DIY enthusiasts Optimum power and maximum runtime thanks to the Syneon Chip Achieving a precise cut quickly and conveniently this is what the EasyCut 12 from Bosch offers. The handy tool is the first all-purpose saw in the world to feature the NanoBlade a saw blade with a revolving micro-chain. It consists of multiple chain links which are only four millimeters in size similar to a chainsaw, but miniaturized. The revolving micro-chain means that the stroke movement which is typical of jigsaws and sabre saws, leading to high vibrations and saw blade running, is eliminated. The result is a saw which enables even occasional gardeners and inexperienced DIY enthusiasts to realise projects easily, vibrationfree and effortlessly and this is also ideal for applications in the garden: When cutting branches, these branches don t sway back and forth as a result of the sawing motion. The NanoBlade is also long-lasting and does not require maintenance: It is not necessary to oil, sharpen or re-tension the chain. The microchain does not become jammed either, even when used with resinous wood. Up to 100 meters of softwood can be cut without having to replace the saw blade. Cordless multi-saw that can be used both indoors and outdoors The EasyCut 12 cordless multi-saw is an all-purpose tool for both inside and outside. Whether users want to cut pieces of squared timber or trim bushes and trees the EasyCut 12, with a weight of only 900 grams, makes every cut easy and quick. The position of the saw blade is another benefit in this case as it enables users to saw close to the edges. The cut is made along the entire length of the blade. Furthermore, very specific cutouts can be made using the tip of the blade. If the NanoBlade needs to be replaced, this can be done quickly thanks to the SDS system, including automatic tensioning of the chain. Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach D Stuttgart Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

14 Optimum power and maximum runtime thanks to the Syneon Chip The EasyCut 12 is designed for cuts up to 65 millimeters. As such, even thick branches can be cut effortlessly. Its high performance is based on optimum coordination of key components such as the motor and gearbox combined with an intelligent electronic system called the Syneon Chip. This ensures that users are always provided with the optimum power level and the maximum runtime for every task. What s more, the EasyCut 12 is powerful right up to the last cut: it holds its full power until the battery is empty. The 12 in the tool name indicates the maximum battery voltage of 12 volts and replaces the previous nomenclature with 10.8 volts, the average battery voltage specification. Combining with a system: Power4All from Bosch The EasyCut 12 is part of the Power4All cordless system which comprises DIY and garden tools. At present, a total of thirteen power tools can be operated using the same 10.8 volt lithium-ion battery from grass trimmers through to hammer drills. This enables do-it-yourselfers to do without batteries and chargers that they do not need, and at the same time to save money. A Power4All logo on the packaging indicates which tools belong to the system. The nomenclature will change from 10.8 to 12 volts in January Existing 10.8 volt batteries and chargers remain fully compatible. It goes without saying that the new 12 volt batteries as well are compatible with the existing 10.8 volt tools. The EasyCut 12 will be available at retail outlets from early 2017 for euros. It will be supplied with a 12 volt battery and a quick charger, as well as a 65-millimeter NanoBlade Wood Speed 65 saw blade. The tool will be available also without battery and charger for euros. All the prices stated are recommended retail prices including VAT. Subject to change. Specifications* EasyCut 12 Battery voltage/capacity No-load speed Max. cutting depth Weight 12 V/2.5 Ah rpm 65 mm 0.9 kg Possible accessories/saw blades Wood: NanoBlade Wood Speed 65 Recommended retail price including VAT *All figures are provisional and based on internal measurements. Set version without battery and charger 99,99 Press photos: 1-PT-22408, 1-PT-22409, 1-PT Page 2 of 3

15 Contact person for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 3 of 3

16 Press release Create your own little oasis in the city: The Ixo garden set from Bosch The first cordless screwdriver which trims and shapes July 28, 2016 PI 9318 PT MS Grass and shrub shear attachment for use on balconies and patios Newest member of the Ixo Collection broad application range for home and garden Fits into every drawer even in small homes The first cordless screwdriver which trims and shapes meet the Ixo from Bosch. Its new grass and shrub shear attachment enables this little helper to shape small ornamental trees on balconies and patios. Even when trimming short lawn edges, the Ixo Garden is one step ahead and the Ixo proves again that it is far more than a conventional power tool. With the grass and shrub shear attachment, the Ixo connects indoor and outdoor, and links to extraordinary attachments such as the Ixo BBQ for lighting charcoal, the Ixo Vino for opening wine bottles and the Ixo Spice for seasoning meals. In total, the Ixo Collection includes nine different attachments, making the smallest cordless screwdriver from Bosch more versatile than ever before the Ixo can simply do more. Attach, switch on and go The Ixo Garden is particularly suitable for occasional gardeners those users who have little affinity with gardening, or limited experience with it as the grass and shrub shear attachment is just as easy to operate as the cordless screwdriver itself. It is ready for operation in just a few steps: Simply remove the front black cap of the Ixo, click the grass and shrub shear attachment into place, unlock the Ixo s red safety switch and activate the speed trigger. The result is that gardeners can use the eight-centimeter-wide blade to stylishly coif ornamental trees that are in need of a trim. Fits into any drawer even in small homes After completing the task at hand, the Ixo can easily be stored in a drawer complete with the grass and shrub shear attachment so that the tool is at hand for use at any time be it for topiary or conventional DIY tasks such as assembling furniture. Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach D Stuttgart Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

17 The Ixo Garden will be available at the recommended retail price of euros from March It is supplied in a carton box with the grass and shrub shear attachment, ten screwdriver bits and a USB charger. Anyone who already owns the Ixo can purchase the new grass and shrub shear attachment individually for euros as part of the Ixo Collection. All the prices stated are recommended retail prices including VAT. Subject to change. More than 15 million units sold the Ixo s story When a cordless screwdriver sells more than 15 million units worldwide, then it must have had its finger firmly on the pulse of its time. The Ixo from Bosch is revolutionizing the DIY market and has been doing so since In a world full of heavy, large and clunky power tools, the Ixo presented itself as a small, lightweight and handy tool. The handy ever-ready feature combined with the tool's small dimensions quickly made it a sought-after alternative to conventional manual screwdrivers and eventually the top-selling power tool in the world. Which other power tool can you adorn with a fabric label and raise a cheer in doing so? The Ixo has been much more than a conventional power tool for some time now, enjoying a cult status among DIY enthusiasts. Press photos: 1-PT-22411, 1-PT Contact person for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. Page 2 of 3

18 The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 3 of 3

19 Press release A broader application range than ever before: Complete high-pressure washer system from Bosch Compact design, powerful cleaning July 28, 2016 PI 9319 PT MS The perfect tool for every job: eight models in three classes Easier, quieter and more powerful: the new Universal class For particularly stubborn dirt: two additional Advanced models Bosch will be offering a complete system of high-pressure washers for efficient cleaning around the home and garden: In addition to the handy Easy class tool and two Advanced models, there are three new Universal tools and two additional Advanced tools. Bosch is thereby covering all applications from occasional, light cleaning and more demanding tasks through to cleaning especially stubborn dirt a broader application range than ever before. Easy, Universal and Advanced classification with individual performance and equipment makes it easier for users to select the perfect tool to meet their requirements. Easier, quieter and more powerful: the new Universal class Bosch is replacing the previous Universal class with three quieter, more powerful models that are even easier to operate: The UniversalAquatak 125, Universal- Aquatak 130 and UniversalAquatak 135 high-pressure washers. The tools differ from one another in terms of water flow rates of 360 to 410 liters per hour as well as maximum pressures that range from 125 to 135 bar, thereby offering the appropriate cleaning power needed for different applications. Thanks to the redesigned three-in-one spray jet system now also with a high-pressure pencil jet all tasks can be completed with only one nozzle and with quick adjustment: One turn is enough. Users can choose from the tried-and-tested fan jet, a rotary jet and the new high-pressure pencil jet for removing particularly stubborn dirt. Furthermore, the scope of delivery now also includes a high-pressure detergent nozzle. This enables the cleaning foam produced to be distributed especially fast over the surface to be cleaned, with users able to carry out cleaning tasks quickly and achieve thorough cleaning results. Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach D Stuttgart Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Phone Fax Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

20 All the benefits of the new Universal class are immediately apparent and even audible. Thanks to the combination of new pump geometry and a high-pressure nozzle, the tools provide ten percent more cleaning power than their predecessors and are also significantly quieter. In addition, the high-pressure washers are especially practical and are easy to position wherever they are needed: The extra-long extendable handle and large wheels make light work of transportation. An additional handle on the front of the tool aids lifting and handling. After use, the extendable handle is simply pushed back and the high-pressure washer can be stored away with minimum space requirements. The lance, cleaning gun, hose and supplied accessories are provided on the tool itself. They can be put together in a matter of seconds as and when they are needed thanks to SDS click connections. Bosch offers an extensive range of accessories for all models, including various patio-cleaning attachments and a 90-degree nozzle. This makes the tools especially versatile. For stubborn dirt: two additional Advanced models With the AdvancedAquatak 150 and AdvancedAquatak 160, Bosch is expanding the Advanced class with two especially powerful and robust tools for thoroughly cleaning stubborn dirt. For the first time ever, the two models feature a fourcylinder Quad pump that has been optimized for efficiency, offering a higher performance while also featuring a more compact design than the conventional three-cylinder pump. As a result, the tools are simultaneously more powerful and ergonomic. The high-pressure washers supply a pressure of 150 or 160 bar, are lighter and more compact than previous models and can therefore be moved and transported more easily. Thanks to the high pressure, they convey up to 480 or 570 liters of water an hour, enabling large areas and very dirty surfaces around the house and in the garden to be cleaned particularly quickly and efficiently. The standard equipment supplied includes two lances and three different nozzles: A vario fan jet/pencil jet lance and a rotary lance as well as a fixed fan jet nozzle with a 60-degree horizontal opening angle and a high-pressure detergent nozzle that can meter the detergent volume. The AdvancedAquatak 160 features a highpressure gun and cleaning lances made from metal which are therefore very durable. Even its high-pressure hose is coated in steel and thereby extremely robust. Both models have an integrated hose reel, which neatly winds up the eightmeter long high-pressure hose. The Universal class high-pressure washers will be available in stores from spring 2017 and the new Advanced class models will be available from January All prices specified are recommended retail prices including VAT. Subject to change. Page 2 of 4

21 The new Bosch high-pressure washers at a glance: Universal class Specifications* UniversalAquatak 125 UniversalAquatak 130 Motor power 1,500 W 1,700 W 1,900 W Max. pressure 125 bar 130 bar 135 bar Max. flow rate 360 l/h 380 l/h 410 l/h Max. flow temperature 40 C 40 C 40 C Length of high-pressure hose 5 m 6 m 7 m Length of cable 5 m 5 m 5 m Weight in accordance with EPTA 7.7 kg 8.7 kg 8.8 kg Price UniversalAquatak 135 Advanced class Specifications* AdvancedAquatak 150 Motor power 2,200 W 2,600 W Max. pressure 150 bar 160 bar Max. flow rate 480 l/h 570 l/h Max. flow temperature 40 C 40 C Length of high-pressure hose 8 m 8 m Length of cable 5 m 5 m Weight in accordance 21.1 kg 23.4 kg with EPTA Price *All data is provisional based on internal measurements. AdvancedAquatak 160 Already available: Easy class: AQT with 1300 W for Advanced class: AQT with 1900 W for AQT X with 2100 W for Press photos: 1-PT-22413, 1-PT-22414, 1-PT Contact person for press inquiries: Martin Steinlehner Phone: Martin.Steinlehner@de.bosch.com Page 3 of 4

22 The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is one of the world s leading providers for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2015, its roughly 20,000 associates generated sales of 4.5 billion euros, about 85 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The division generated about one third of its sales in 2015 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2016, Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools. The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 375,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2015). The company generated sales of 70.6 billion euros in Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility Solutions, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 440 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch s global manufacturing and sales network covers some 150 countries. The basis for the company s future growth is its innovative strength. Bosch employs 55,800 associates in research and development at 118 locations across the globe. The Bosch Group s strategic objective is to deliver innovations for a connected life. Bosch improves quality of life worldwide with products and services that are innovative and spark enthusiasm. In short, Bosch creates technology that is Invented for life. Additional information is available online at twitter.com/boschpresse Page 4 of 4

23 July 28th, 2016 RF e PT MS An effortless way to a beautiful garden with innovations from Bosch Speech by Henk Becker, Member of the executive management of the Power Tools Division of Robert Bosch GmbH on the occasion of the press conference in Stuttgart on July 28th, 2016 Check against delivery. Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach Stuttgart, Germany Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Martin.Steinlehner@bosch.com Phone: Fax: Senior Vice President: Dr. Christoph Zemelka

24 Ladies and gentlemen, Learn from the user develop for the user: In the introduction to User Experience, you have just learned how systematically we research the needs and desires of our users, and focus on these when developing products and services. We are all working together on this: From the specially established User Experience team led by Marc Jost-Benz to the employees in Development, Product Management, Marketing and Distribution. In the development process, we check time and again whether the user finds our product useful, can operate it easily, enjoys using it and whether the product meets the aesthetic requirements. Knowing the answers to these questions forms the basis of our innovative strength and is the DNA for our success. Our users originate from diverse target groups With the interdisciplinary User Experience approach, we are serving different target groups: Private users as well as gardening and landscaping professionals. Since this year s spring we offer a complete range of professional cordless tools. You are welcome to try these at our hands-on stations. Let me illustrate today how we make gardening easy for private users who, of course, have varying needs already. Hobby gardeners, garden lovers, nature enthusiasts, city gardeners, self-supporters no two are the same, and yet they have one thing in common: The desire for easy-to-use gardening tools. I will show you how you can have a beautiful garden effortlessly, using Bosch innovations. We will discuss typical gardening jobs: Lawn mowing, trimming tree branches and shrubs, shaping small ornamental trees, cleaning patios we offer the perfect solution for all of these tasks. Let me start with two small and quiet robotic lawnmowers: The Indego 400 and the Indego 400 Connect. Evolution of the Indego: tried and tested functions now in compact design Everyone wants an attractive, well cared-for lawn. But not everyone has the time or the desire to mow it. Robotic lawnmowers can provide a remedy: 2 of 8

25 Once they are set up, the user can sit back and relax. Even users with smaller gardens appreciate this benefit, but they find current models oversized. So, what have we done? We are offering our tried-and-tested LogiCut function for quicker lawn-mowing in lanes, as well as app control now in a compact design: Our new models, the Indego 400 and Indego 400 Connect, are 50 percent smaller, half as loud as existing models and mow up to 400 square meters. This makes them particularly suitable for city dwellers requiring peace and quiet, who would rather have their lawn mowed than mow it themselves. A new calendar function makes manual programming of the mowing cycle unnecessary. It automatically calculates the ideal mowing cycle based on the actual lawn size, the area that can be mowed in one battery charge, the required charging times and the breaks that must be observed, for example, when people are likely to be taking a nap or at the weekend. This means more time to enjoy your garden, whether in a hammock or at the barbecue. Moreover, you can control the Indego 400 Connect easily and conveniently on your smartphone or tablet from anywhere the sofa in your living room, on the way to work or even while on vacation. That is what we call Smart gardening! EasyCut 12: a new dimension in sawing in the garden too With the EasyCut 12, our all-purpose saw with new saw blade technology, we are opening up a new dimension in sawing for users. At present, anyone who wants to trim tree branches or shrubs has to rely on jigsaws or saber saws. In particular, people with little sawing experience find it difficult to guide the saw accurately and safely, due to the typical stroke movement with high vibrations. Our solution is a saw blade with a revolving micro chain consisting of chain links that are four millimeters in size similar to a chainsaw, but miniaturized. No more stroke movement, no more vibration. With this, we are 3 of 8