Volvo Turns the EX30 into a Big Battery… and That’s Great!

An electric car like the EX30 is made to drive, of course. But it can also power a coffee maker, tools, or even a refrigerator.

Thanks to a free update, the Volvo EX30 gains a V2L feature that turns its battery into a true mobile power outlet.

Here’s a new way to make use of the dozens of kilowatt-hours that lie dormant under the floor of an electric car. Starting this week, Volvo is gradually rolling out a remote update that allows the EX30 to become… a large external battery on wheels.

The principle is that of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L). An adapter connected to the charging socket allows an electrical device to be plugged in directly. The EX30 can then provide up to 3 kW at 16 amps. This is enough to easily power a coffee maker on the side of a football field – an example chosen by Volvo – but especially for electric tools, camping equipment, or various household appliances.

The Electric Magic

And behind the slightly gimmicky aspect of the coffee maker plugged into the car lies a real utility. In case of a power outage, for example, the EX30 can keep a refrigerator or freezer running. In the great outdoors or anywhere lacking a power outlet, its battery becomes a readily available energy reserve. To avoid having to walk home after saving the contents of the freezer, Volvo has built in a safety feature: the power supply automatically stops when the battery reaches a 20% charge.

The update is not limited to V2L. The EX30 also benefits from an updated interface, featuring a customizable contextual bar and simplified settings. In some European markets, Plug & Charge is also available: at a compatible charging station, simply plug in the car for it to be recognized and charging to start automatically, without a card or app.

In short, Volvo is indeed transforming its little EX30 into a big battery. But a battery weighing nearly two tons that can sometimes provide significant services.

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