Michelin Launches In-Car Power System

Michelin has launched a range of power converters that change 12volt DC battery current into 240volt AC mains power for laptop computers, mobile phone chargers, power tools and televisions.

With more and more mobile staff spending time on the road and making even less frequent visits to the office, Michelin has determined that greater power capacity is required for portable machines. Whilst a laptop has its own battery power, this capacity is limited and only an AC power source will operate the computer in the car and recharge the battery.

Three portable converters are now available in the Michelin range of automotive accessories, which is aimed to make travel safer, more efficient and more enjoyable. The range includes foot pumps, electronic tyre inflators, pressure gauges, emergency breakdown kits, car jacks and battery chargers.

The 100watt mobile converter plugs into the car’s cigar lighter and on all three models the leads are neatly stored in a compartment in the base of the converter. A single 3-pin UK socket is at the other end of the canister shaped converter that actually fits into the drink can holder found on many modern vehicles. This 100watt converter (RRP £24.99) can be used to power phone chargers and laptops.

The 150watt model (RRP £34.99) provides twin AC sockets so both a laptop and a charger can be plugged in at the same time but only one can be operated. The 300watt mobile AC power converter (RRP49.99) will power small power tools, laptops, portable TVs and even a kettle for those wanting a cup of tea when stopped by the roadside. This model has dual AC sockets, which can be run simultaneously. This heavy-duty converter must be connected directly to the vehicle’s battery rather than through the cigar lighter socket. Heavy-duty battery clamp are provided.

Michelin Lifestyle Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Michelin group. Headquartered in Stoke-on-Trent the company sells through 27,000 key retail outlets in 75 countries. 8 million products were sold in 2005. There are now more than 950 products in the range which was launched in 2001.