UK firm launches fuel-cell based phone charger
UK fuel cell specialist Intelligent Energy has launched a portable consumer device designed to charge electronic devices like smart phones and cameras.
The product, known as UPP, uses replaceable and refillable hydrogen-filled cartridges to supply a fuel cell which combines the hydrogen with air to produce electricity, and water vapour as a by-product.
According to the firm the system can be used to charge any USB compatible device and is able to deliver one week’s worth of charge to even the most power-hungry smartphone.
The device has initially been launched in Africa following successful consumer trials with African telecomms company Etisalat Nigeria. The technology is thought to be particularly attractive to the African market, where electrification remains an issue in many poor and and rural areas.
WIth a recent Intelligent Energy survey revealing that more than 70 per cent of mobile device users find themselves with a dead or nearly-dead battery at least once per week, the firm is also set explore other markets. And global distribution of the device is set to begin in 2014.
Register now to continue reading
Thanks for visiting The Engineer. You’ve now reached your monthly limit of news stories. Register for free to unlock unlimited access to all of our news coverage, as well as premium content including opinion, in-depth features and special reports.
Benefits of registering
-
In-depth insights and coverage of key emerging trends
-
Unrestricted access to special reports throughout the year
-
Daily technology news delivered straight to your inbox
UK car production falls in April
Might the ´combination of factors´ include, in the face of stagnant EV sales, manufacturers reducing ICE car production in order to avoid the £15,000...