Random Idea: Plug-in batteries

[RonW]

You know those extension cables you can get at auto parts stores that let you use plug-in jumper cables? Well why not have plug-in batteries?

Instead of two posts, the battery would have a plug with two prongs, and the car's wiring harness would have a socket. You couldn't plug it in the wrong way around. For jumping, there would be an additional socket in the car's wiring harness. Again, it would be keyed. Ideally, the socket would be designed so you could chain jumper cables together for more length.

Any thoughts?

[Edited 8/24/2008 to enable BBCode]

[David in NC]

Great idea, but the battery should have the recepticle and the plug should be the car's wiring harness. That way a hot plug couldn't bump up against the the car body and arc a big ole mark across your new paint job. Also you could plug in other 12 volt appliances like lights for spotting deer or electric drills for making marguritas at the races.

[RonW]

You can make a plug that is also a socket, i.e. it can plug into a copy of itself. I know it sounds weird, but it exists.

[Velocewest]

[QUOTE="RonW"]You can make a plug that is also a socket, i.e. it can plug into a copy of itself. I know it sounds weird, but it exists.[/QUOTE]

Used all the time on electric material handling equipment -- i.e. forklifts.

[kendogg1]

Ya, I've thought of doing this with various car audio setups over the years, just never got around to doing anything about it, lol.