Peppermint SD45 and VC20 · specs, operator review and alternatives (2026)
Peppermint Robotics offers two complementary robots: the SD45, a large-area autonomous floor scrubber (45 L, best-in-class 8 h runtime, zero turning radius, industrial stainless steel chassis) for manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, airports and shopping centres, and the VC20, a carpet-specialist vacuum that adapts dynamically to the carpet type and to its speed. Essential point: the SD45 does not vacuum carpet (that is the VC20's job), and availability is confirmed at quotation stage. Price and availability on request.
At a glance
Two complementary models
| SD45 | VC20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Large-area scrubbing | Carpet vacuuming |
| Signature feature | 8 h runtime, zero turning radius, industrial stainless steel, parts within 48 h | Dynamic adaptation to the carpet type and to speed |
| Carpet | No (the VC20's job) | Yes, specialised |
| Data | Published | Prose only (watch-list entry) |
Data sheet
Reading by environment
Floors and soiling
The SD45 scrubs hard floors across large manufacturing and pharmaceutical sites (not carpet); the VC20 vacuums carpet specifically, with dynamic adaptation. Together they cover both hard floors and carpet. Bulky debris to be swept up beforehand.
What the manufacturer does not say
The SD45 and the VC20 complement each other. One scrubs hard floors, the other vacuums carpet: pitting them against each other misses the point. To cover both floor coverings, you need both.
The SD45's 8 h runtime is a genuine industrial asset. Best-in-class, with rugged stainless steel and parts within 48 h: designed for demanding operations. The 9 h charge calls for planning.
The VC20 is thinly documented. Its dynamic adaptation to carpet is promising but comes with no published specifications; and availability is confirmed at quotation stage. Cost structure: machine plus optional Tru-Dock plus consumables.
Purchase or outsourced service
On purchase (capex), the SD45 offers rare industrial endurance (8 h, rugged stainless steel) but imposes a 9 h charge to plan around, and no direct distributor has been established. A direct purchase is therefore premature; under an outsourced service (opex), this sourcing and parts risk passes to the contractor, who carries continuity. See the catalogue and the demonstration, or our robotic cleaning offer.
Strengths and limitations
Strengths
- SD45: best-in-class 8 h runtime, zero turning radius, industrial stainless steel.
- VC20: carpet vacuuming with dynamic adaptation.
- SD45 parts announced within 48 h.
Limitations
- availability is confirmed at quotation stage.
- SD45: 9 h charge, 280 kg, no carpet.
- VC20: no published figures.
Alternatives
- Against large-area scrubbers that are available: the Kärcher KIRA B 50 and the Gausium Scrubber 75.
- For carpet: the LionsBot R3 Vac and the Nexaro NR 1500, both available.
Comparison with a Pudu BG1: see the Pudu BG1. To put figures on it: How much does it cost?, Rental or purchase? or demonstration.
Sources
Consulted on 16/07/2026: Peppermint product pages for the SD45 and VC20; internal robot database (v39). Values marked "n/p" are not published. No price displayed: on request.
Frequently asked questions
Does the SD45 vacuum carpet?
What is the SD45's runtime?
Is there a distributor?
How much do they cost?
Interested in the Peppermint SD45 and VC20, or in an alternative?
Ask us: we will tell you plainly whether this model suits your floors, and what we would do in your place. Reply within one working day.