November 10, 2006 The internal combustion engine which we thought was one of the saviour technologies of mankind may one day be judged by history as the infernal combustion engine thanks to its dual drawbacks of noise and pollution. Whilst almost everyone can see the world is drowning in exhaust gasses (except the United States and Australian Governments), on a more immediate level communities across the world are placing an ever higher priority on minimizing noise pollution and outdoor equipment such as gas-powered blowers has been at the center of that push. So we laud , Husqvarna’s new 356BT Quiet Blower which integrates high blower capacity, low noise levels, and an ergonomic design into a backpack, so it can be used at times and places that a conventional blower cannot, resulting in increased productivity and usefulness for both professional users and homeowners.

A new engine produces higher torque at lower revs and along with a number of sound dampening technologies has reduced the sound level during operation to 64 db(A) at 50 feet – roughly comparable to a conversation in a normal tone of voice. Equipped with Husqvarna's exclusive E-Tech II technology, the blower reduces emissions by as much as 60 percent while the ergonomic design makes it easy to carry and operate. The 356BT has padded shoulder straps and a hip belt that distributes the weight evenly and is equipped with an anti-vibration system.

The 356BT features Husqvarna's Air Injection system - previously only available on chain saws - that removes up to 97 percent of dust before it enters the filter, resulting in smoother operation, extended filter cleaning intervals and decreased wear on the engine.