Stihl builds its own battery manufacturing facility

On the market by 2019

Sawing specialist Stihl sets up its own battery production at the company headquarters in Waiblingen. In Waiblingen-Hohenacker, backpack rechargeable batteries for professional applications shall be produced.

In this way, the company wants to demonstrate its claim to top technology and its innovative strength for environmentally friendly devices, according to a press release. Stihl’s products are aimed at forestry, agriculture, landscape conservation and private use.

Stihl has been selling products with rechargeable batteries for almost 10 years

“The entry into the production of battery packs is the consistent continuation of Stihl’s battery strategy” says Stihl CEO Dr. Bertram Kandziora, explaining the step. “In just 10 years, we have expanded our range of battery-powered products from a hedge trimmer to three product lines with a wide variety of devices” he continues.

The first batteries from the new in-house production will be launched in autumn 2019. Sales are planned primarily in Europe. The battery production was built about 1.5 years ago.

The segment of battery products is not new for the saw and cutting tool manufacturer. The first professional equipment with a rechargeable battery has been available in 2009. For a good two years now, employees have been researching battery and electrical developments in the competence center. Since then, the number of employees has increased to 300.

Demand from private customers and municipalities

“Over the past few months, we have been able to fill many vacancies that we have advertised mainly in the areas of batteries, electronics, networked products and IT. This is an important basis for further growth in this segment of the future” emphasizes Dr. Kandziora

According to the company, products with powerful rechargeable batteries are not only in demand for private use. Municipalities should also benefit from quieter and emission-free products.