DeWalt PowerShift truly is groundbreaking

It was back at the Installer Show at Birmingham NEC back in Summer that we first stumbled across the mind-blowing DeWalt PowerShift range. Things have moved on at pace since then. Therefore, in a deliberate departure from our usual toolbox talk, we wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and pay homage to something that truly has the potential to revolutionise the world of construction tools.

Our introduction to DeWalt PowerShift

We spent a bit of time with the DeWalt guys, as you'd imagine. We were fascinated at what they outlined with their PowerShift system, though. Their 54-volt battery would apparently power any number of construction tools like rammers, plate compactors and core drills. 

What's in the range?

The DeWalt Powershift Cordless System is powered by a high-capacity 554Wh battery. It's said to provide substantial runtime and performance. The range currently is built of 8 key items. Including the following tools:

• Plate Compactor: Delivering 3,370 ft-lbs of force through a 15.7-inch plate, with ergonomically designed folding handles for increased user control and comfort

• Rammer: Features 2,660 ft-lbs of impact force. Equipped with anti-vibration insulators and with mounted controls on a two-position handle for an enhanced ergonomic experience.
  
  
• Backpack Vibrator: Weighing in at around 25lbs (with battery installed).  Features a durable roll cage and a fully adjustable high-visibility harness for user comfort.
  
  
• Powerpack Vibrator:  This can be activated remotely via DeWalt Wireless Tool Control. It's designed with an over-body, high-visibility harness for easy transport.
  
  
• Power Screed: With fully adjustable handles for customisable height and width. Plus ambidextrous controls which can be mounted on either handle.
  
  
• Core Drill and Stand: Designed for close wall or ceiling clearance. Features anti-rotation technology to prevent over-rotation in bind-up situations.
  
  
• Battery & Charger: A high-power density battery with 554Wh capacity, weighing 11.5lbs. Offers long runtime and optimal ergonomics. Plus, the high-rate charger can recharge the battery in less than one hour.
  
  
• Adaptor: A "DEWALT FLEXVOLT / DEWALT POWERSHIFT" adaptor is available, allowing use of FlexVolt batteries for additional runtime when using PowerShift equipment.

Making TIME's list of Best inventions

Fast forward to November 2024. DeWalt PowerShift was named as one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2025. The award is known to honour inventions which are groundbreaking. Or, which can change how we work, play or live. DeWalt were the only tool manufacturer represented on this year's list. Moreover, it was in hotly contested "Sustainability" category.

Their appearance on the list reflects the fact that the system optimises workflow on construction suites through electronically powered equipment. Therefore potentially eliminating the less-green gas powered equipment (or petrol powered equipment as we know it here in the UK) with all the issues that can bring. DeWalt has been highlighting how this technological shift can significantly cut carbon emissions, aiding construction companies in meeting government environmental directives.

What happened next for DeWalt PowerShift?

The momentum sparked by that accolade was seemingly unstoppable. DeWalt quickly rolled out the PowerShift system across North America. The uptake there was immense. Joining the TIME's list nomination were:

• Fast Company's 2024 Innovation by Design Award 
• Concrete Contractor's Top Product of 2024
• Equipment Today's listing in 2024 Contractor's top 50 new products
• Pro Tool Reviews 2024 Pro Tool Innovation award in the Concrete and Masonry category 

In customer testimonials users have been widely highlighting the system's ease of use. Notably the features people are loving are the system's precision, power, how lightweight it is plus it's battery run-time. One fan of the system stated:

"Once everyone uses POWERSHIFT, they're going to realise the ease of use and it's going to completely change everyone. They're not going to go back to traditional corded and gas-powered."

Powershift named one of the greatest inventions of 2024

As 2024 drew to a close, the accolades elevated to yet higher levels. We learned that DeWalt were the only tool manufacturer represented in Popular Science's 2024 Best of What's New Awards. This marks the sixth industry accolade the system has received since its unveiling, further solidifying its impact and reputation.

Bill Beck, Tools & Outdoor GM, Chief Growth Officer at Stanley Black & Decker said:

"The DeWalt PowerShift system exemplifies our commitment to relentless innovation and delivering sustainably-minded, high-performance solutions to the pro on the jobsite. We thank Popular Science for recognizing (this) as one of the 50 greatest innovations of 2024. We are driven to redefining the future of the construction industry."

It does sound very much like this could be a defining moment for the brand. Perhaps too this could be part of a whole industry shift to more sustainable energy sources. It's rumoured to be hitting UK shores from around February 2025. We will definitely be watching with interest to see how this plays out here too.