Steele Introduces First Chainsaw with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Forestry and tree service professionals need a real chainsaw, and the Stihl MS 500i brings new features to the market that we haven't seen before. The Stihl MS 500i is the first chainsaw on the world market to offer precise fuel metering through Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI). Yes. fuel injection. And, with its quick acceleration, easy start-up and excellent power-to-weight ratio, you'll be through all your felling and trimming tasks in no time.
What's the big deal?
The really obvious talking point is electronically controlled Stihl fuel injection (the "i" in the model number). According to Stihl, this is the first time this feature has entered the chainsaw market. EFI provides this saw's super fast acceleration thanks to more precise fuel delivery.
In terms of numbers, the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw goes from 0 to 62 mph in a quarter of a second. That's over 2 seconds faster than the fastest Tesla…but a Tesla can't cut down a tree. Pushing 6.7 horsepower and a dry weight of 13.9 pounds, the Stihl MS 500i also has an excellent power-to-weight ratio.
Stihl also simplifies the start-up procedure. EFI eliminates the choke coil. All you have to do is press the primer bulb and pull the starter cord. Pressure relief valve vents compression for quick starts. Coupled with quick acceleration, this chainsaw has you cutting in no time.
Once up and running, the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw uses built-in pressure and internal temperature sensors to measure barometric pressure, outside air temperature and engine temperature during startup and operation. It will automatically adjust the performance appropriately according to the operating conditions.
When it's time to service the saw, Stihl dealers will be able to use the MS 500i's MDG 1 diagnostic software. This high-tech magic tracks the saw's performance through error memory, allowing dealers to quickly find any problems.
other features
- Lightweight sprocket cover with retaining bar
- side entry chain tensioner
- Anti-vibration system
- High output adjustable automatic oiler
- STIHL Ematic Lubrication System
- STIHL ElastoStart Starter Handle
- HD2 air filter
- Quarter turn lock air filter guard
- Tool-less fuel and oil filter caps with retainers
We're still waiting on the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw to hit the market, but we expect an official announcement any day now. Alternatively, you can head to your local dealership. In any case, the price will depend on the size of the saw blade and chain, and whether you opt for a wrap handle, which will allow the saw to be used in multiple positions, with your hands in place. You can pick up one of these for anywhere between $1309.99 and $1419.99. Like all Stihl pneumatic chainsaws, this one comes with a 1-year warranty for personal use and a 3-month warranty for professional use.
To learn more about the STIHL MS 500i Chainsaw, visit the STIHLusa.com website.
Stihl EFI Chainsaw Specifications
- Models: Stihl MS 500i and MS 500i R (wrap handle)
- Displacement: 79.2cc
- Engine Power: 6.7 HP
- Weight: 13.9 lbs; 14.8 lbs (MS 500i R)
- Fuel Capacity: 26.05 oz.
- Oil Capacity: 11 oz.
- Recommended guide rod length range: 16" to 36".
- Warranty: 1 Year Residential/3 Months Professional
- Price Range: $1309.99 – $1419.99