Sony"s newest rechargeable battery technology seeks to bridge the gap between regular alkaline batteries and NiMH rechargeable batteries. Cycle Energy rechargeable batteries do not require initial charging and have a very low self discharge rate. They maintain 85 percent of their charge after one year and can be recharged up to 1,000 times. This new technology offers consumers the convenience of a ready-to-use rechargeable battery that is longer lasting.