Global electronics brand Hitachi brings its fridge freezers to the UK market for the first time with a new range of energy efficient fridge-freezers.
The initial 3 models for the UK – an American-style 589L capacity side-by-side and two freestanding fridge-freezers are being launched this summer, with Argos.
Hitachi makes out that its inverter technology used in Japanese bullet trains is employed in these units and while technically that may be true, we doubt there’s a bullet train inverter in a fridge. Asides which inverter technology is being used everywhere these days on washing machines, fridge freezers and so on to reduce energy use. It isn’t new and it isn’t unique at all.
The products will be competitively priced, ranging from around £1399.99 for the American style side-by-side, which is available in metallic glass black or stylish metallic glass silver; and £549.99 and £599.99 for the fridge-freezers – which are available in two sizes, in a choice of gloss black or refined metallic titanium grey.
Hitachi’s refrigeration range will appeal to consumers who want exclusive, trusted Hitachi technology and premium features and finishes, at an attractive price point. All products in the range offer usability at its best – they’re frost free; easy-to-clean both inside and out; offer superior and flexible storage; and incorporate quality components such as intelligently placed LED lighting; safe and attractive glass shelving; and nano-titanium filters to ensure a fresh environment for all stored produce. Energy-efficiency has also been a priority in the design of the UK range.
Hitachi’s frost-free, non-plumbed American style side-by-side model achieves an impressive A++ energy-saving rating, thanks to the inverter technology combined with dual-fan cooling. These two technologies ensure efficient distribution of chilled air, supplying only the compartment that needs it, and finely monitoring and adjusting energy levels to maximise efficiency at all times. It is claimed that this technology helps achieve energy savings of up to 25% compared to other similar-sized models on the market but, we hold doubt on that claim.
The design features include an elegant, flat, easy-to-wipe-clean glass control panel on the exterior, so settings can be changed with a simple touch. An ergonomically designed ice and water dispenser produces crushed ice, ice cubes or cold water via an easy-to-remove-and-replace 4L tank inside the refrigeration compartment.
Hitachi’s two new A+ energy-efficient fridge-freezer models come in a choice of two sizes – one at 186.8cm high, with 72L freezer/210L refrigerator capacity; and one at 200.9cm high, with 72L freezer/243L refrigerator capacity. Both models have an attractive easy-to-use temperature display and control panel on the fridge exterior. Cooling options include “super cool” and “super freeze” for fast cool-down; plus “holiday” and “eco” modes to ensure extra energy-efficiency when required.
We don’t know who is actually making these units as yet but we would expect it to be one of the usual Chinese makers.
When will I be able to buy the us style hitachi fridge freezer.