Kia EVs Can Now Power American Homes During Blackouts

Kia is taking a a big step forward in reshaping how electric vehicles (EVs) interact with energy grids and households. With new advancements in Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and smart charging technology, the automaker is turning its EVs into more than just a mode of transport, they’re becoming flexible power solutions for homes and businesses.

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Powering Homes with Kia’s V2H Technology

Starting February 28, Kia’s V2H feature is available in seven U.S. states: California, New York, Florida, Texas, New Jersey, Illinois, and Washington. This will enable EV9 owners turn their vehicles into emergency power sources. Whether it’s a heatwave, hurricane, or wildfire-induced blackout, V2H allows Kia EVs to supply electricity to homes when the grid goes down.

Beyond emergencies, V2H offers a financial advantage. Owners can charge their EV9 during off-peak hours when electricity rates are low and use that stored energy to power their homes when rates spike, effectively reducing their energy bills. While some have raised concerns about battery degradation with this practice, research and real-world experience suggest modern battery management systems are designed to minimise long-term wear.

▶️MORE: When is V2G Really Coming to Australia?

To access V2H, owners will need a Wallbox Quasar 2 charger and a Wallbox Power Recovery Unit, which ensure seamless vehicle and home power system integration.

Smarter Charging in the Netherlands

Across the Atlantic, Kia enhances how EV owners charge their vehicles in the Netherlands. With fluctuating electricity prices, Kia’s new Smart Charging initiative helps owners optimise costs by charging their cars when rates are lowest.

▶️MORE: Which Electric Cars Have Bidirectional Charging

This system is powered by the Kia Smart Charge app, available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app automatically coordinates charging times based on real-time electricity rates, ensuring users always get the best deal without manually adjusting their schedules. These new functions means Kia customers will no longer need to outlay additional money for these features, typically found in smart EV chargers.

Looking Ahead: Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Energy Trading

Kia’s ambitions don’t stop at V2H and smart charging. Later this year, the company plans to launch Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology in the Netherlands, allowing EV owners to send surplus energy back to the grid. This will not only reduce electricity costs for users but also support the energy grid during peak demand periods.

🔌 Watt is Bidirectional Charging, V2G, V2H, V2L?

Meanwhile, in the U.S., Kia is working with major California utilities to expand V2G programs. By integrating EVs into the energy infrastructure, Kia aims to make electric vehicles a crucial part of sustainable energy solutions.

The Intersection of Vehicles and Energy

Kia’s latest innovations marks a significant shift in its product positioning. Electric cars are no longer just a means of transportation but a vital component of the energy ecosystem. As Heung Soo Kim, Executive Vice President of Hyundai Motor Group, puts it:

“By expanding the role of our EVs beyond just transportation, we are solidifying Kia’s leadership position in the rapidly evolving EV-energy sector.”

With smart energy management, emergency backup capabilities, and energy trading, Kia is building the foundation for a future in where cars are as much a transport tool as they are one for energy.

For Australian EV buyers these developments hint at possible product capabilities for the local market in the coming years.