The notebook isn't cheap (it's available through channel partners for around $2,000 in various configurations), but it certainly marks a breakthrough for the ultra-mobile professional who needs to work a VERY long day. But I have to admit, as someone trained to carry an extra computer battery for an LA-NY flight, this technology has some appeal, despite the pricetag.

HP says using components such as Intel's solid-state hard drives (SSD) and an LED display instead of a traditional LCD helps stretch out the battery life. New Intel SSDs are coming in October. The EliteBook weighs a little under 5 pounds and includes a 14-inch screen, which means it packs a lot more capabilty than the current netbooks that HP and others have introduced (although like those netbooks it is designed for the suddenly ubiquitous "corporate road warrior" who must make his or her way through this era of terrible airline travel.) It's also built to military standards, probably a good thing for anyone battling through TSA security lines. With more airlines ready to offer in-flight Wi-Fi, it looks like HP's new product will be a hit, even if it does risk making book reading in the airline cabin an antiquated curiousity.