I have now used this in two different cars, and it is perfect - you can have the USB ports (and 12V ports, if needed) where you need them. The USB ports are also high-power enough to charge not just the usual GPS and Smartphone, but even my iPad, which needs 2A to charge.The unit comes with a long cord, and additional hardware to allow various ways to connect it to the car, all of which looks sturdy and functional, tough I ended up not using them - the unit fits perfectly in the space between the front Passenger seat and the center console (on two cars now - a Subaru Wagon and a Toyota Camry).This so convenient that I recommend this to anyone, even if your car does have 12V sockets in the central console. it has 2 of everything, for the couple who has multiple power-hungry devices (you know who you are ...)In addition, after I bought the item I received a gracious email from Mr. Dodge, a Customer Service Manager of Gizmoco, the vendor, writing to make sure I was happy with the product and the transaction.As you can tell, I am. If you are in the market for additional car charging ports - I highly recommend this.