Valeswood Fuel Cells will launch its 12 volt "Powerbox" on the Valeswood stand at the Hydrogen & Fuel Cells for Clean Cities, 6th Annual International Conference & Exhibition at the NEC Birmingham on 25th March 2010.

It is easy to use and refuel and will power all sorts of computers, cameras, phones, lighting systems and small electric motors. It is also easy to transport and can be used in all sorts of locations.

Designed and built in Birmingham the "Powerbox" uses a number of new and exciting technologies. The "Powerbox" stores hydrogen in a unique metal hydride canister which fuels an air cooled PEM fuel cell. It contains an advanced electric and gas monitoring system to deliver a reliable and long lasting source of electricity in the workplace, home or in remote places in the countryside.

Basically the "Powerbox" brings together hydrogen and oxygen to create safe green electricity. The only exhaust gas from the "Powerbox" is pure, pollution free water vapour. It meets all European and British safety standards.

Valeswood Fuel Cells is well known for its hydrogen powered electric bikes as featured on The Gadget Show.

The 2010 model has a rugged mountain bike frame with front disc brake and racing gears. It features a 36 volt fuel cell which delivers great power and acceleration. The bike will cruise at 25 kph with a range of 100 km on one tank of hydrogen. It needs no insurance and can be used on all European roads.

Keyur Patel enjoys riding the hydrogen bike

Dr Alex Bevan of Birmingham University is a leading metallurgist and fuel cell expert. He has been developing fuel cell systems with Valeswood Fuel Cells for several years.

Alex is a Research Fellow in the Department of Metallurgy where he specialises in the development of new solid state hydrogen storage applications.

Alex can regularly be seen sailing on the canals around Birmingham at the helm of the Ross Barlow hydrogen powered narrowboat, which he developed with Prof. Rex Harris. "It's a great way to relax", says Alex.

Dr Alex Bevan