The German manufacturer Kobold intends to bring together the best of both worlds in its new VK7 cordless vacuum cleaner. The brand created by Vorwerk is releasing this new multifunction broom that can take the form of a floor scrubber or a hand-held vacuum cleaner thanks to the various adaptable brushes.
This new version changes appearance and proudly sports a screen on the front of the handle. This delivers several information to the user, such as the suction power, the percentage of battery remaining, the quantity of water contained in the tank and the level of humidification of the soil. The controls are also located on the handle and no longer on the top of the brush, which greatly facilitates the use of the Kobold.
The Kobold VK7 stands alone in the parking position. © Kobold
This model gains in power compared to its predecessor. Against three suction levels previously, the VK7 leaves the choice between four levels and a fifth called “boost”. The power of 1 would correspond to the power of 2 of the old reference. The broom automatically detects the type of floor and thus adapts the speed of rotation of its brushes. And for greater efficiency, dust extraction is now carried out at 180° thanks to the EB7 brush.
The suction head has two large wheels to better handle the VK7. © Kobold
The Kobold also improves its battery, which would benefit from a better lifespan according to Vorwerk. It could last eight years, against four previously. Still according to the German manufacturer, the dust bag would be able to trap microparticles and bad odors. Larger than the previous model, the user can empty it only every 10 weeks, four more than its predecessor.
The broom handle pivots for easier storage. © Kobold
Finally, the washing function is always ensured by the DuoSpeed head, as for the VK200. It also has two suction vents: one forward and the other backward. A microfiber cloth sits in the center of the scrub head and scrubs the floor at 1350 rpm. The brush has a water reservoir that moistens the floor by capillary action when the user presses the trigger. But all these options have a weight: the DuoSpeed weighs 3.5 kg empty and that’s why a handle has been integrated by Vorwerk to attach and remove the various adaptable brushes.
The VK7 equipped with the DuoSpeed washing head. © Kobold
The hand format is designed for vacuuming textiles, sofas and armchairs. Coupled with a powerful brush, the suction function would be able to swallow the best hung animal hair.
Kobold offers different lots for sale, with more or less accessories included. The first, obviously consisting of the VK7 and the suction head, is sold for €999. By adding the DuoSpeed brush to wash the floor, this sum rises to 1449 €. To also have the textile brusher, it is necessary to count 1649 €. Finally, for those who wish to go a little further, it is possible to add the window washer nozzle for a total of 1849 €.
The removable battery – not compatible with previous generations – is sold at €149 and extends the life of its multifunction vacuum cleaner. As usual at Vorwerk, the sale is made by adviser, via the online shop or at official points of sale.