MTI Micro Fuel Cells has announced a new fuel cell powered by methanol that will be used in satellite navigation systems.

The fuel cell is at the prototype stage and will be shown at the Small Fuel Cells conference in Atlanta.

While most global positioning systems (GPS) can be used in cars and therefore do not need a fuel cell system, the product will be aimed as a hand-held device for hikers and campers.

The new product is the latest to follow a universal charger that can power or change any hand-held device that has a USB port.

MTI Micro Fuels has also developed fuel cells that power mobile phones and professional cameras.

Peng Lim, Chief Executive Officer of the firm told the Times Union that the fuel cell lasts three times as long as four AA batteries and provides a total of 60 hours of power.

Hikers taking a long trip can benefit from a "sense of safety", according to Mr Lim.

"It will be there when you need it," he added.

Source:

New MTI fuel cell powers GPS, 02/05/08
http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=685508&category=BUSINESS&newsdate=5/2/2008