Freeplay Freecharge Weza pedal-powered generator

We love our lappy, but we gotsa say that the battery life just isn't what it should be. So while we're sitting around waiting for those fuel cells to come along and solve all our power needs, we're thinking of picking up one of these Freeplay Freecharge Weza generators to keep the juice flowing. Of course, physical effort flies in the face of everything we know and stand for, and the product page mentions that "modest dedication" is needed to get this all full up, but if you're not afraid of a little pedal pushing to charge this thing, you've got a nice renewable energy source, or just a nice big battery if you decide to be a slacker and power it up with a wall jack.

[Via Book of Joe]

[abigsmurf @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

looks a bit big there...

maybe they can implement a fold out version that would fit in laptop cases?

[Jeff @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

Perfect for those of us with restless leg syndrome! Think of all the power I could be generaing as a side-effect of having to constantly move my leg.

[camron @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

This is sweet. is should come with cars.

[Dario @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

Am I the only one who is bothered by the picture what looks like a one-legged guy balancing on this thing?

[Usman @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

He he: "watch a mid-size TV for hours while losing weight."

[Tom Gisler @ Dec 19th 2005 2:31AM]

Just a note: I ordered the Weza here in the USA from the sole distributor back in September 2005. They sent back 2,000 of them because the items they received were not the same quality as the samples they received to preview. The problem was the foot rest. Too weak and easy to break. So.. they said take 'em back. When they're up to the original quality you presented we'll take them. They said the original quality was tops. In fact they had many inquiries from those hit by Katrina. They could not sell a one. I admire a company standing behind what they sell and having a little concern for the consumer. I'm not talking about Freeplay but the distributor. The fault was probably not freeplay out of Africa, but a Chineese subcontractor who made parts not up to specs. they are suppose to be in by the end of February here in the states. Can't wait to see these things in action.