V2L and V2G: What is bidirectional charging?

Since the advent of the electric era, bidirectional charging has become a flagship feature for many manufacturers, including Hyundai, which sheds light on this innovative technology.

To simplify a technology that is anything but simple, let’s say that bidirectional charging allows a flow of energy to circulate into and out of a vehicle.

Starting in 2021, certain 100% electric vehicles have been produced with an integrated reverse charging feature called V2L (Vehicle-to-Load).  The V2L technology adds a valuable bonus to everyday electric mobility by allowing users to power or recharge various electronic devices. Their vehicle becomes a true power source on wheels. This isn’t just a phone charger plugged into a cigarette lighter; it’s a high-voltage power source capable of powering household appliances.

From means of transportation to energy source

Outside the vehicle, it is possible to connect electrical and household appliances using a V2L adapter, which allows the energy stored in the battery to be used while the vehicle is parked.

With this technology, camping has entered a new dimension. It also enables the charging of electric bikes and scooters that support the car, rather than just being alternative means of transportation. Simple and obvious, but particularly complex to implement because electrical current in such a complex machine as a modern vehicle is not meant to move freely in all directions.

From V2L to V2G

In recent years, the development of V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) technology, another innovation based on bidirectional charging, has gained ground. This technology allows the transfer of energy stored in the battery pack of an BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) back to the electrical grid. Besides balancing the grid, the energy stored in BEV batteries can be fed back into the grid, helping to manage energy demand during peak times and emergency situations. As countries seek to diversify their energy mix by increasing renewable sources, V2G technology contributes to managing the impacts of climate change. While the technology isn’t much more complicated than V2L, the volume of available energy is currently insufficient to make it relevant or to open up opportunities, such as enabling BEV owners to be compensated for the energy they redistribute… for now!

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