Sony shows off methanol fuel-cell prototypes
updated 03:05 pm EST, Wed February 25, 2009
Sony fuel-cell chargers
This Friday at the FC Expo 2009 in Tokyo, Sony will show off a number of hybrid fuel cells, with the most notable being the pictured devices. They combine a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a methanol fuel cell and are capable of using one or both at the same time if conditions call for it. Power made by the methanol fuel cell that is not used is stored in the battery pack. A USB port lets users plug in and charge their portable electronics.
A larger home charging that can reportedly provide recharging power for a cellphone for an entire month has two USB ports but works on an identical principle.
At the show, Sony will also show off hybrid cordless home stereo speakers, which could be powered for one full year from a single bottle of methanol fuel. If and when the devices will become shipping retail products isn't known, though fuel cell products are known to be in the plans for Sony and other companies that make notebooks and other long-life portable devices. [via SlashGear]
Sony portable fuel-cell charger
Sony home fuel-cell charger
