By Claire Reilly
SYDNEY, NSW: While the hills are alive with the sound of carbon pricing, reducing power bills and saving the environment, Panasonic has come to the table to offer consumers a greener choice with its new “Econavi” technology.
The launch of the new technology is timely, following the Federal Government’s announcement of the nuts of bolts of its carbon pricing scheme last Sunday.
While the Econavi innovation is being spruiked, managing director of Panasonic Australia Steve Rust said it was still too early to comment on the impact of the new carbon price.
“While broadly supportive of national environmental initiatives, Panasonic is currently reviewing the government’s recommendations. We hope to be able to provide a response in the near future,” he said.
Still, for those looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption – tax or no tax – Panasonic is hoping to provide an appliance option geared towards the green-minded consumer.
The portmanteau of economical navigation, Econavi technology monitors the efficiency of the appliance’s performance, and actively senses and adjusts processes to be more environmentally friendly. Panasonic is no doubt also hoping that going green will put the company in the black, with global sales of Panasonic Econavi products approaching 4 million units per year.
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Speaking about the new technology was Mathew Harrison, group marketing manager, home environment, Panasonic Australia.
“This represents a significant development in product direction for Panasonic Australia and one which we hope will deliver benefits for both our customers and the environment,” said Harrison.
“There is a world of difference between eco-capable products and those actually being used in a more responsible way. Our research has shown that consumers want green performance from their products; however many are time-poor and lack the information needed to significantly adjust their behaviours to achieve this.
“Econavi delivers all of the benefits without any of the burden.”
The first appliance to adopt the technology is the Panasonic NA-140VG3WAU 10kg Washing Machine – billed as “the most energy efficient washing machine in its class” with 4.5-star ratings for both energy and water efficiency.
“Using Econavi technology and the innovative 3D sensor, the machine precisely measures the amount of clothing inside the new ‘Matrix’ drum and adapts the energy and water needed for each wash, reducing the amount of water used.”
The machine also senses the amount of drum rotations needed (to use the motor as efficiently as possible) and features a HydroActive water supply system that rapidly delivers water to better dissolve detergent, ensure thorough rinsing and reduce operating times.
Like other Econavi products, the washing machine has been designed to offer “reduced power consumption, ease of operation, reduced CO2 emissions during lifecycle, and [the use of] less materials to manufacture the product.”
While the technology will initially be adopted in Panasonic’s front-loading washing machine, Harrison said the company would be introducing more Econavi products in the coming months.