Hi Gareth - the innovative brush roll in the Kenmore is the same that was featured in the Panasonic Icon sold in the UK. Look for YouTube clips showing the Icon and you'll see the vac in action.
With the direct drive technology, it is easier to offer the user a "gentle" setting that slows down the brush roll. Too bad Panasonic is leaving the North American vacuum market. :-(. They were great innovators.
Here's a great demonstration from humourous Roger "Sensotronic" in England:
[URL unfurl="true"]http://https//youtu.be/8D5adCvi-30[/URL]
