There is a solution to the problem though.  It’s called a 12v power inverter.  A 12 volt inverter is a device that makes the power that your car outputs compatible with regular household electrical devices.  There are two types of units available.  The first is the simplest and you simply plug it into your cigarette lighter outlet.  They usually have one or two standard household electrical outlets on them for you to plug your electrical devices into.  The second type requires hard wiring the device to your cars electrical system.

There is a new type of inverter on the market and it’s pretty nifty.  It looks just like a Starbucks coffee cup.  You simply plug the cord into your cigarette lighter outlet and place the inverter in your cars cup holder.  On top of the device are two 120 volt electrical outlets.   This is a great solution to a long time problem of where to place the inverter so that it isn’t in the way or under foot.  The inverter outputs 200 watts which is plenty for most of your needs like charging your laptop, MP3 players, digital cameras, video cameras, and other electrics devices.