Since the success of the Roborock S50, the brand has evolved from robot vacuums to stick vacuums. But this year it chose to explore entirely different ground by showcasing the Zeo One, a washer-dryer, at IFA 2023.
After the new robot vacuum cleaners, as well as a broom vacuum cleaner, which also washes the floor, Roborock moves on to another category.
Entering the washing machine market, and more specifically the washer dryer, is a bold bet. For a long time, these machines were criticized for their poor performance in both washing and drying. However, with 96% of French households equipped with a washing machine, ie more than 26 million households, we understand the attraction of this industry.
Fierce competition
The washing machine market is a fiercely competitive sector, dominated by brands that have built up solid reputations over decades.
Among the major players in this market, we find European companies such as Beko, Bosch, Brandt, Candy, Electrolux, Faure, Miele and Siemens. These brands, with their European roots, have long set the standard for laundry care and appliance durability. Alongside them, American giants like Whirlpool and Maytag have also left their mark on the industry, bringing technological innovations and modern designs. But the competition does not stop there: Korean companies, like Samsung and LG, have come to shake up this market with their advanced technologies, their connected functionalities and their sense of design.
The variety of models is impressive, with entry-level machines at 199 euros and premium models that can be worth several thousand euros. These are distinguished by their capacity, the precision of their technology for better linen care, and their environmental dimension, in terms of saving water, electricity, detergent, and noise levels. Despite everything, the majority of consumers opt for devices whose cost varies between 300 and 600 euros. With a sale price of 1300 euros for the Zeo One, Roborock clearly takes the side of the high end.
Technology and innovation: the Zeo One credo
Faced with tough competition, marked by European and Korean players such as Beko, Bosch and Samsung, Roborock has chosen to stand out through technology. The Zeo One is distinguished by its drying at moderate temperature Zeo cycle. This is finely adjusted by an artificial intelligence algorithm and smart sensors.
That’s not all, the device has a function capable of removing bacteria, pet dander and allergens.
Another special feature of the Zeo One is its self-cleaning system Roborock LintClear. Instead of having to manually clean the lint filter, this mechanism automatically collects and removes lint. This attention to detail, combined with connected functions, perfectly illustrates Roborock’s vision for a modern and connected home. Finally, true to its origins, Roborock offers with the Zeo One a design that is both sober and elegant.
What future for the Zeo One on the French market?
Roborock will test the waters on the German market from the end of 2023. If the Zeo One is successful there, the brand will probably consider an introduction on the French market. But at 1,299 euros, the premium positioning of the Zeo One could be an obstacle.
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