By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: Super premium German kitchen appliance brand Gaggenau has released a new type of cooktop this morning: a zoneless induction unit that allows for greater flexibility when cooking.

Unlike gas and electric hobs that are inflexible in their shape and size, and induction cooking zones that require cookware to be placed within a marked boundary, the new CX 480 has no markings or restrictions. Users can place a combination of induction compatible pots and pans anywhere on the surface to ignite the element.

Because induction requires the relationship between the surface and the cookware, the unused parts of the cooktop will remain cool during the cooking process. The process is controlled by a touch TFT display, which also includes operating instructions.

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Gaggenau will also be releasing accessories to work specifically with this cooktop. An example is the GN 232 Teppan Yaki plate (RRP $849). These accessories form part of the amusingly named Gastronorm range.

Gaggenau is distributed in Australia by Sampford IXL. Here is brand manager Frances Lynch.

“There is unlimited flexibility, convenience and ease of cooking with the CX480.  One is now able to place pots and pans of any size in any spot on the entire surface of the induction hob,” Lynch said.

The CX 480 will be released locally before November 2011. It is RRP $11,999.

Gaggenau's CX 480 Induction Cooktop. The unique zoneless design allows users to position cookware anywhere on the surface.