Landscapers are demanding more cordless alternatives to corded and gas-powered outdoor power equipment, and Makita delivered with the 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless String Trimmer (model XRU04Z, tool only). With zero emissions, lower noise, and considerably less maintenance, as well as category-leading battery charge time and unmatched breadth-of-line, this 18V cordless trimmer is a welcome solution for landscapers. And with the efficient Makita BL™ brushless motor, they’ll get up to 50% longer run time, more power and speed, and longer tool life.  Makita’s efficient BL™ Brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge than similar non-brushless tools. Electronic controls efficiently use battery energy to match the changing demands of the application for increased power and speed when needed. With no carbon brushes, the Makita BL™ Brushless motor runs cooler and more efficiently for longer life. The XRU04Z features Makita Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™). XPT™ is a protective seal inside the tool, and is engineered for improved operation in harsh conditions by channeling water and dust from key internal components. It’s part of Makita’s expanding 18V Lithium-Ion series, the world’s largest cordless tool line-up powered by an 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style battery. Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have the fastest charge times in their categories, so they spend more time working and less time sitting on the charger. For improved tool performance and extended battery life, Makita created Star Protection Computer Controls™. Star Protection is communication technology that allows the Star Protection-equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real time and monitor conditions during use to protect against overloading, over-discharging and overheating. For increased versatility, the tool can also be powered by Makita 18V LXT® and Compact Lithium-Ion batteries with the star symbol on the battery indicating Star Protection inside.