Skip to main content

Scosche solBat II Offers Solar Charging via USB

Peripheral and accessory maker Scosche Industries is now offering the solBat II, the latest version of its USB charger for iPods, iPhones, and other USB devices that combines a 1500mA lithium-ion battery with a solar cell charger: the idea is that the battery can charge USB devices as fast as a wall wart, then users can recharge the solBat II “greenly” in the sun for the next recharge, perhaps by plopping it inside a car windshield or dangling it from a backpack. The solar capability makes the solBat II a reasonable charging solution in situations that take folks away from wall power and batteries—at least, so long as there’s sun. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!

Scosche solBat II
Image used with permission by copyright holder

“The solBAT II is a great way to charge your devices using the free, renewable power of the sun,” said Scosche executive VP Kas Alves, in a statement. “It is the perfect accessory for powering outdoor adventures or can keep your iPhone topped off while you watch your favorite movie on a long flight.”

Recommended Videos

When fully charged, the solBat II will charge a typical cell phone two times and can be used with most devices that charge via USB including iPhones, iPods, BlackBerrys, PSPs, and the like. The solBat II comes with a windshield mount and a universal carabineer mount so users can charge its battery in a vehicle or by lashing it onto a backpack or other item.

The solBat II is available now for $29.99.

Scosche solBat II
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Geoff Duncan
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…
Volvo’s much-anticipated EX30 EV to reach U.S. before year end
Front three quarter view of the 2025 Volvo EX30.

Volvo is switching gears again, this time to accelerate deliveries of its much-anticipated EX30 subcompact electric SUV so that it reaches the U.S. before the end of 2024.

The Swedish automaker last summer had postponed the U.S. launch of the EX30 to 2025, citing “changes in the global automotive landscape." The move followed the Biden administration’s 100% import tariff on electric vehicles made in China.

Read more
Rivian R2 EV’s new LG battery boosts storage capacity sixfold
Rivian R2

The Rivian R2, the EV maker’s much-anticipated affordable electric SUV, will be powered by U.S.-made batteries promising to store six times as much energy as those currently used.

South Korea’s LG Energy Solutions announced it will be supplying LG’s 4695 cylindrical batteries to Rivian as part of a five-year agreement.

Read more
Hyundai 2025 Ioniq 5 is under $44,000, with more range and NACS port
hyundai ioniq 5 44000 nacs 64149 large631652025ioniq5xrt

Hyundai is on a roll. In October, the South Korean manufacturer posted its best U.S. sales ever, largely driven by sales of its popular Ioniq 5 electric SUV.

Now, all eyes are on the Ioniq 5’s 2025 model, which is set to become available at dealerships before year-end. As Digital Trends previously reported, the crossover model adds a more rugged-looking trim level called XRT and provides additional driving range as well as new charging options.

Read more