Abstract: The present invention relates to vacuum cleaners which may be in the form of so-called upright and cylinder cleaners. In the vacuum cleaner according to the invention the functions of air movement and rotation of a rotary beater or brush are separated. This results in a more flexible product, less possibility of damage to a belt driving the beater and gives a ready means for stopping the beater when the cleaner is parked. The vacuum cleaner includes a main body, a first portion and an electric fan housing coupled to a first aperture of an air duct, the first portion including a suction opening adjacent a beating means, a turbine coupled to a second aperture of the air duct and a drive line coupling between the turbine and the beating means, whereby cleaned air is directed through the duct to the turbine.