Honda Motors to release portable power generator (for Japan)

Not Auto news, but Honda news none the less....
Honda Motor Co. has announced it will release a portable power generator fueled by butane gas cartridges in May, mainly for outdoor use and in case of disasters.

The new power generator, dubbed "enepo," is easy to carry around like a small suitcase with wheels. Users can simply generate electricity by putting a pair of butane gas cartridges into the generator, turning it on and pulling a cord.

Compared to existing gasoline-fueled models, the fuss-free generator is capable of up to 2.2 hours of continuous operation and provides 100 volts -- the same amount as household power supplies.

The generator can supply power to computers, lighting equipment, electric tools and outdoor cooking tools. It can also be used as an emergency power source after earthquakes or other disasters.

In March 2009, Honda released a compact cultivator fueled by butane gas cartridges. Thanks to the home gardening boom, the user-friendly cultivator has sold about 10,000 units over the past year, around 1.7 times more than Honda's initial sales goal.

As the second version of Honda's new butane gas cartridge-fueled products, the enepo, which will go on sale for 104,790 yen each at Honda outlets and DIY stores from May 13, is expected to sell around 9,000 units a year.

Source;
http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/news/20100326p2a00m0na011000c.html