May 13, 2008 - Toshiba says it plans to begin mass-producing direct methanol fuel cells with an eye toward bringing fuel cell-powered products to market by March 2009, IDG reports.

Direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) are widely viewed as a greener alternative to traditional batteries because they create electricity via a reaction between methanol, water, and air, leaving only small amounts of water vapor and carbon dioxide as byproducts. (Another benefit? With a fresh cartridge of methanol they take just seconds to recharge.)

DMFC prototypes have been around for a few years, but haven't yet made it to market.

Toshiba's fuel cell announcement came last week as the company unveiled a new management plan to boost sales and profits 12% over the next three years. In March, the company refreshed its pledge to bring new green products to market as part of its environmental goals for 2012.