Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology will revolutionize how we think about electric mobility. V2X technology enables electric vehicles to communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and the energy grid, allowing for a more efficient and sustainable transportation system. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of V2X technologies and their potential impact on the future of electric mobility.
V2L: Vehicle-to-Load – for charging other electric devices
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology allows electric vehicles to act as mobile power sources, providing electricity to external power devices or buildings. V2L enables electric vehicles to become more than means of transportation but also a backup power source during emergencies or power outages. Car models such as Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia Niro, and Kia EV6 all have a V2L port that allows the vehicle to power devices up to 3.6 kW.
V2G: Vehicle-to-Grid – for balancing the grid
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology allows electric vehicles to consume power from the grid and return power to the grid. This means that electric vehicles can also provide energy to the grid during peak demand periods in addition to charging their batteries. V2G can reduce the need for new power plants by providing a distributed source of energy storage that can be used to meet peak demand. V2G technology is used in several electric vehicle models, including the Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi Outlander, Volvo EX90, and Ford F-150 Lightning. Additionally, Volkswagen ID series EVs (with at least 77 kWh capacity) should receive a software update later in 2023, enabling V2G features.
V2H: Vehicle-to-Home – for backup power
Vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology is similar to V2L, but instead of powering external devices, it allows electric vehicles to power a home during a power outage. V2H technology enables electric vehicles to act as a home backup power source, providing electricity during emergencies or power outages. V2H is currently being tested, e.g., in Japan, where it has been used successfully to power homes during natural disasters.
Requirements to utilize different V2X technologies
If you want to utilize V2X technologies, there might be a need for something else besides your EV. For V2L, you don’t need anything extra besides the adapter that connects your EV’s Type 2 port to the electric device. For V2G, you will need a (home) charger that is V2G capable. Make sure to choose your charger wisely if you plan to use V2G. Lastly, V2H requires a 3-phase socket for your home. Similarly, as with a new EV charger, installing a 3-phase socket needs a visit from an electrician, but that’s a minor effort for enabling V2X technologies for you.
V2X technology has the potential to revolutionize how we think about electric mobility
With V2G, V2L, and V2H technologies, electric vehicles can become more than just transportation modes but also energy storage and backup power sources. As V2X technology develops, we can expect more electric vehicles with V2X capabilities, creating a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. To make the most out of V2X in the future, consult with your EV or charger seller about the V2X capabilities when updating your EV setup.
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