Towson, MD – Porter-Cable is set to  launch its next generation 18-Volt Lithium Ion Drill/Driver (PCL180CDK-2) and 18-Volt NiCd Hammerdrill (PC180CHDK-2). Both models were redesigned to offer general contractors, service tradesmen, remodelers, carpenters, woodworkers and other professionals improvements in performance, ergonomics, versatility and durability while maintaining value.

Lithium Ion Drill/Driver

A critical update in the PCL180CDK-2 18-Volt Lithium Ion Drill/Driver is the introduction of a new motor and low impedance batteries that deliver 424 inch-pounds of max torque, a 30 percent improvement over the old model.

The additional torque also provides 25 percent higher speed with 1,500 RPM in high gear, allowing users to complete applications faster.

Weighing 3.8 pounds and measuring 8.1 inches in length, the PCL180CDK-2 is compact and lightweight, making it suited for accessing tight spaces. The length was minimized by changing to an exposed gearbox, which also reduced the girth of the tool around the top of the handle. The streamlined handle is contoured and covered with an overmold that provides a more secure and comfortable grip.

The drill/driver incorporates features for improved versatility, including a 22-position clutch, LED light for visibility in dimly lit areas, and onboard bit tip storage.

Durability was improved with the introduction of a glass filled nylon housing to withstand the normal wear and tear on the jobsite, a high output motor, an all-metal chuck and battery overload protection.

Based on contractor feedback, Porter-Cable also moved the battery releases from the back of the tool to the front, allowing for a more efficient change of batteries while working on the job. The unit delivers backwards compatibility between Lithium Ion and NiCd batteries, allowing users to choose NiCd batteries for greater performance or Lithium Ion batteries for compact size and weight.

Available in November 2011 at Lowe’s, Amazon.com and the independent channel, the PCL180CDK-2 will retail for approximately $149.

NiCd Hammerdrill

The PC180CHDK-2 18-Volt NiCd Hammerdrill is more compact and delivers greater beats per minute than its predecessor model PC180HDK-2. The new model runs on a 1.5 Ah, 18 Volt NiCd battery and produces the speed (0-350/0-1,500 RPM; 0-25,500 blows per minute) and power (424 inch-pounds of max torque) needed for typical hammerdrill applications, including drilling into concrete tile, brick and mortar block.

Outfitted with a metal chuck, the new hammerdrill weighs 5.1 pounds, measures 9 inches in length and is compact enough for applications in tight spaces.

Available in November 2011 at Lowe’s, Amazon.com and the independent channel, the PC180CHDK-2 will retail for approximately $129. www.portercable.com