About three months ago, I came across the new Fisher & Paykel (Haier) washing machine, model number WL8058G1. Opening the lid, I was shocked to see that it was not a SmartDrive™ unit. Rather, the internals came from Haier's self-branded washing machine, which featured the low-profile agitator.
Up until this point, Haier has never branded its own machines as Fisher & Paykel washers. It acquired F&P back in 2012, but it kept the SmartDrive™ internals for their machines. Now, the new machines are for sale alongside the Smartdrives in almost every store. What are your thoughts?
Post# 1202156 , Reply# 1 3/23/2024 at 12:13 by henene4(Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))
I think these are an OK thing, but mainly Haier trying to gain market share with the brand recognition of F&P in the markets down in the southern hemisphere.
I would be saddened to see the SmartDrive/EcoActive system to be discontinued without any replacement.
But those machines are inherently more complex in a few ways and thus more expensive.
So having a cheaper simpler option with the customer care from F&P isn't terrible.
Gabriel, they’ve done the same with F&P refrigeration now, there are only a couple of models left that come from Thailand and the rest are all Chinese made Haier rubbish.
We ordered mum one of the new ones, the first was scratched up the side, even though the box was fine, the second had a twisted cabinet and the 4 doors were out of alignment.
I requested an “upgrade” paid $400 more to get a commercial only model, that got mum a Thai made one that was fine out of the box. Its a pity that Haier are stripping them like this, but I guess it was inevitable.
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