A Complete Guide to Bidirectional EV Charging in 2023

13th September 2023by brendon

Bidirectional EV charging

As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on our roads continue to grow, so does the need for innovative and efficient charging solutions. Among these innovations, bi-directional charging emerges as a promising technology that may revolutionise the way we charge our EVs. In this comprehensive guide, we discuss bi-directional charging, its benefits, and how it can be utilised for various purposes, including vehicle-to-grid (V2G), vehicle-to-home (V2H), and vehicle-to-load (V2L). Furthermore, we cover UK bi-directional regulations, the current list of bi-directional cars and chargers available, and finally, its potential impact on the future of EVs.

What is Bi-directional Charging?

Bi-directional charging is a technology that enables electric vehicles to not only draw power from the electric grid but also return that power back to the grid or use it for other purposes. This two-way flow of energy increases the overall efficiency and utility of EVs, as they can act as energy storage devices outside their primary purpose of transport.

How does it work?

Bi-directional chargers use a type of inverter with the unique ability to convert electrical energy in both directions: from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and vice versa. This allows energy stored in an EV’s battery to be fed back into the grid, a connected home, or another device, depending on the energy needs at the time.

When an EV is plugged into a bi-directional charger, the charger can either send current from the grid to the vehicle’s battery, or turn the excess stored energy in the EV back into AC and feed it back to the grid, when needed. This process is managed and controlled by the vehicle’s onboard Energy Management System (EMS) and the bi-directional charger’s respective controls.

What are the benefits?

Bi-directional charging offers a variety of benefits that enhance the way we utilise an electric vehicle’s battery. Some key advantages include:

  • Energy efficiency: Bi-directional chargers can help to reduce peak demand on the power grid. By drawing energy stored in EV batteries during peak demand or transferring it back during off-peak hours, it helps maintain a more balanced and efficient grid system.
  • Cost savings: If you own an EV, bi-directional charging allows you to take advantage of electricity price fluctuations, by charging your vehicle when energy prices are low and potentially selling energy back to the grid when prices are high, leading to financial savings in your energy bills.
  • Backup power supply: In case of a power outage or an emergency, an EV with bi-directional charging capability can act as a backup power supply for your home, keeping the lights on and your essential appliances running.

Vehicle to Grid (V2G), Vehicle to Home (V2H), and Vehicle to Load (V2L) explained

Vehicle to Grid (V2G)

V2G is a system in which electric vehicles with bi-directional charging capabilities can provide power back to the grid, helping to balance the power supply and demand, particularly during peak hours. Integrating V2G technology can improve grid stability, optimise renewable energy integration, and generate added revenue for EV owners.

Vehicle to Home (V2H)

V2H is a system where an EV serves as a temporary energy storage device for a connected home, providing power when necessary. This system can be used in the event of a power outage or if energy prices are high, allowing homeowners to save money on utility bills.

Vehicle to Load (V2L)

V2L is a technology that enables an EV battery to supply electricity directly to devices other than the grid or a connected home. This type of technology is particularly useful for remote areas where it is difficult to access grid power, allowing EV owners to provide electricity to crucial devices such as medical equipment or communication systems. V2L can be performed without the need for a bi-directional charger.

Bi-directional charging and solar panels

Bi-directional charging and solar panels

Bi-directional charging can be coupled with solar panels, allowing for a more efficient and cost-effective energy usage. By installing solar panels, EV owners can produce their own green electricity to charge the vehicle or feed surplus energy back into the grid. This system is particularly beneficial in areas where access to grid power may be limited due to geographical restrictions.

UK Bidirectional charging regulations

Despite the attention it has received, one of the challenges faced by V2G technology implementation is the lack of standardised bidirectional charging protocols and connectors, along with regulatory hurdles. Bidirectional chargers, similar to solar inverters, are considered an additional power generation source and must comply with safety and shutdown standards in case of grid failures. To address these complexities, certain vehicle manufacturers, like Ford, have developed simplified AC bidirectional charging systems that exclusively function with their EVs, providing power to homes instead of exporting to the grid. Other manufacturers, such as Nissan, utilise universal bidirectional chargers, like the Wallbox Quasar

That being said, this technology shows huge potential to alleviate some of the ever-increasing demand on the power grid and, as such, is likely to see massive advancements in the coming years. With more and more households adopting electric vehicles in 2023, we could soon live in a world where tens of thousands of electric vehicles simultaneously supply power back to the grid at times of high demand.

Current Bi-directional Cars and Chargers available in 2023

Not all electric vehicles have bi-directional charging capabilities, and neither do the chargers.

As we’ve mentioned, this is very much a fast-moving area of EV technology so expect this list to grow exponentially in a short space of time. However, as it stands in 2023, these are the cars and chargers that have bi-directional offerings.

Electric vehicles with bi-directional charging capabilities 2023

Model V2G V2H V2L
Hyundai Ioniq 5 No No Yes
Nissan Leaf ZE1 Yes Yes No
MG ZS EV (2022 model) No No Yes
Kia EV6 No No Yes
BYD Atto No No Yes
Ford F-150 Lightning (only compatible with Ford Charge Station Pro) Yes Yes Yes
Outlander PHEV Yes Yes No

Bi-directional Electric Chargers 2023

At the time of writing, there is quite a limited amount of EV chargers available that offer bi-directional charging. However, there are many that are currently still in development with a scheduled release for late 2023.

Wallbox Quasar

Wallbox Quasar

The Wallbox Quasar is a groundbreaking bidirectional EV charger specifically designed for residential use with a maximum power rating of 7.4kW (32A). It stands out as the most compact charger in its category, offering advanced two-way DC charging capabilities.

It is important to mention that this charger is exclusively compatible with vehicles equipped with a CHAdeMO DC vehicle connector.

Wallbox are currently developing the Quaser 2 which will offer a more powerful 11.5kW (48A) charge and discharge rate, WiFi, Ethernet and Bluetooth connectivity options and compatibility with the more prominent CCS1 DC charging port.

Fermata FE-15

Fermata FE-15

The FE-15 bidirectional charger (presently exclusive to North America) is the dominant two-way DC charger when it comes to power with an impressive 15kW charge and discharge power rating. From its sleek design to its robust specifications, the wall-mounted charger exemplifies a commitment to performance, longevity, and safety. Just like the Wallbox Quaser, this charger can only be used with electric vehicles that have a CHAdeMO DC connection type.

Rectifier Technologies Highbury

Rectifier Technologies Highbury

The upcoming Highbury bidirectional DC charger is poised to revolutionise the charging industry with its advanced features. With an impressive efficiency rating of 96%, this charger combines sleek and contemporary design with functionality. It stands as the world’s thinnest bi-directional DC charger, offering two models: the standard 7kW and the high-power 11kW (46A).

Beyond enabling electric vehicle (EV) owners to sell surplus power to the grid through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, the Highbury charger has plans for future enhancements. It aims to introduce vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality, expanding its capabilities further. Additionally, this charger ensures widespread usability by being compatible with both CHAdeMO and CCS compliant EVs.

Bi-directional charges set for a 2023 release

These upcoming chargers also offer impressive functionality and specifications, and are scheduled to be available to the public later in the year.

  • Emporia V2X
  • Delta V2H
  • Ford Charge Station Pro
  • Autel Maxicharger V2X
  • SolarEdge bidirectional EV charger

Keep an eye out for these, as they will all be available soon!

Potential impact on the future of EVs

Bi-directional charging could potentially have a significant impact on the future of electric vehicles, as it unlocks many opportunities for EV owners and opens up new revenue streams. As bi-directional chargers become more widely available and government incentives increase, it will make EVs even more attractive to consumers, leading to greater adoption and accelerating the transition to electric transportation.

Not only will this help reduce carbon emissions, but consumers could also potentially pay less for their electricity bills as they return unexpended energy back to the grid; this combined with renewable energy sources such as solar power could see a major shift away from the status quo when it comes to powering our homes.

Additionally, with more automakers investing in V2G and V2H technology, it is likely that we will see significant advancements in bi-directional charging capabilities, opening up even more possibilities and applications. For example, bi-directional chargers could be used to provide electricity to remote areas where access to grid power is scarce or non-existent, allowing for greater energy independence in these regions.

In summary, the potential of bi-directional EV charging stands to revolutionise the way we use energy and could help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way for a greener, cleaner future.

This technology is still in its infancy but certainly has exciting potential to reshape the way we use energy – and it’s only going to get bigger! As more automakers invest in research and development, bi-directional chargers are likely to become more widely available and could soon be a common feature of electric vehicles. The possibilities for bi-directional charging are seemingly endless – watch this space!

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Reviews
Tracy oliverTracy oliver
16:30 05 Nov 24
Friendly professional service. Excellent job and service received.
Marek GalMarek Gal
20:08 21 Oct 24
Very pleased with my EV Hypervolt 3 Pro charger installed by EV Solutions.Turned out just like I wanted it.Thank you
Alex LattyAlex Latty
19:37 21 Oct 24
From start to finish it was perfect. Louis and another did the work which was a very high standard and very neat. I'm very pleased with the installation and would recommend EV Solutions.
Patrick GrittonPatrick Gritton
20:05 06 Oct 24
Recent brought an EV and after alot of research decided to proceed with EV solutions for a Hypervolt 3 fitted at residence.Service was excellent from start to finish. Initial survey was pain free done remotely. Quotation was very competitive. Fitting was within 1 week and was professionally installed. Customer service provided by Brendon, was exceptional throughout.5* fully recommend!!
John Mcel (jcmc)John Mcel (jcmc)
19:25 20 Sep 24
Straight forward to deal with, installation quick and professional.O
Daniel KingDaniel King
13:23 04 Sep 24
AdeleAdele
19:39 03 Sep 24
Very happy with all aspects of my Hypervolt charger installation by Brendon and Luis
Clarke KentClarke Kent
20:15 29 Aug 24
I purchased both the hardware and installation from EV Solutions. It’s genuinely was the most pleasant experience I have had with tradesmen. Everything was so professional and smooth the quality of the installation (which was quite complicated) was absolutely brilliant. 100% Recommend these guys. Massive shout out to Luis and Lewis. Both chaps did a brilliant job.
Alexander CoweyAlexander Cowey
19:08 08 Aug 24
From contact to installation and charging the EV, 9 working days,Exceptional service. I was dealing with a company and its staff who are competent with product and system knowledge, Through planning and keeping us in touch exercised minimal disruption during installation and finalisation. It was a pleasure to clear the invoice. Thank you
Tim FieldTim Field
17:23 18 May 24
Had a Zappi charger installed on 13th May 2024 - very happy with speed and professionalism of the installation - neat job with no wires showing on the outside wall. Would highly recommend.
Bruce MurphyBruce Murphy
06:48 09 May 24
After years of experiencing the effects of a sub-standard installation and never benefiting from the full range of features of an EV charge point, EV Solutions have been great. A new charge point fitted with full integration with solar and home battery. Thank you. A good customer experience
Gary ThompsonGary Thompson
09:16 16 Apr 24
From the initial home consultation, to the delivery and work carried out for install, Brendon and his team were second to none. A very professional outfit who carried out all aspects of the work brilliantly. Great job done. I would highly recommend getting in touch.
Magnum2kMagnum2k
08:44 13 Apr 24
Having searched high and low for a charger I came across EV Solutions who surveyed my property and carried out the installation in just over a weekThe installation was carried out to such a high standard and with such precision/ professionalism that there is very little cable exposed.I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking to have a charger installed .
James MahoneyJames Mahoney
10:16 23 Mar 24
Fantastic buying experience with my Ohme Home Pro charger. The online survey was very straightforward and I was able to get the installation booked in around my availability very easily. The electrician who installed the charger was great - will definitely recommend to friends.
Kathryn TutillKathryn Tutill
12:17 07 Feb 24
After months of being messed about by Pod Point I contacted EV solutions.The whole process was totally reassuring.From start to finish it took less than 2 weeks.Plus Brendon managed to ensure that it was tied in with our solar panel and battery system.A pleasure to do business with this company.Restored my faith in mankind.Thank you.
Tom HutchinsonTom Hutchinson
11:06 29 Jan 24
Great experience in dealing with EV Solutions. Competitively priced and offering finance options which was great given we had a more complicated install route. Proficient team who were prompt and friendly. Would wholly recommend to anyone considering using this company.
Jevgenij TuronokJevgenij Turonok
16:05 21 Dec 23
Very pleased with speed and quality of work. Already referred them to a friend who will also have his charger installed soon
Ben RussellBen Russell
12:05 15 Dec 23
Excellent install and great installer
Peter HarrisonPeter Harrison
11:47 28 Oct 23
Excellect service and very competent electricians.
Steve HughesSteve Hughes
12:00 19 Jun 23
Very satisfied with the discussion, quote and installation of the Hypervolt 3 by Brendan and his team from EVSolutions. Brendan was very informative during the pre-installation visit and the EVSolutions team who came to install the charger were very professional and efficient.
MarcusMarcus
21:07 04 Jan 23
Got a Myenergi Zappi installed at home, the installers where professional and left the place clean. One of the nicest cabling jobs I've seen in a while. Will certainly recommend.
Andy SAndy S
06:51 12 Oct 22
EV charger installation done to a great standard, electrician turned up when they said they would, completed job in good time with minimal disruption and very friendly.
Nigel GrovesNigel Groves
20:47 24 Feb 22
Very good installation by a very competent team
Stephen VaseyStephen Vasey
11:35 24 Nov 21
Just had a Zappi 2 charger installed by EV Solutions. They were very polite during the install. Very professional and worked none stop during the whole install.The install was done and any mess was cleared away by them after the work was completed.If you are looking for professional and efficient workers you can't go wrong with EV Solutions
Nathan HallNathan Hall
17:53 21 Nov 21
I had solar panels installed by a leading north east company. They were unable to install a charger, claiming issues gaining approval from the grid supplier. Brendon sorted it no problem. Very happy with the install. Brendon may be lacking in the organisation department but he gets the job done.
Michael HanlonMichael Hanlon
10:37 05 Sep 21
Great service from Brendan and his lads who were efficient, helpful, tidy and very professional. Would definitely recommend to others.
Stephen HopkirkStephen Hopkirk
08:20 03 Sep 21
I contacted EV Solutions to have a charger fitted at my home, Brendon provided all the information I needed and quickly came back with options and quotes, even bringing a couple types to my home for me to see and make my mind up over. Eventually went for the EO Mini Pro 2, and a fitting date was arranged. EV Solutions turned up at the right time and fitted the unit. The finished job is extremely neat, and it works as it should. Great service from this local company. Recommended.
Simon ForsterSimon Forster
16:57 16 Jun 21
Great job carried out by two very professional electricians. Arrived when they said they would, carried out the work to a high standard and left the place tidy. Provided some good advice for the future. Would highly recommend EV Solutions for installation of a home EV charger. Thanks lads.
Keith KayKeith Kay
19:53 20 Feb 21
Very friendly staff with good clear and concise communication. Skilled, clean & tidy workers. I have enjoyed dealing with this company and its staff.
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Contact Us

0191 5976780
info@EVSolutions.uk
Stage Left Productions LTD

TA- EV Solutions

21 Gillingham Road

Sunderland

SR4 8LB

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Reviews

EV Solutions
4.7
Based on 33 reviews
powered by Google
Tracy oliver
Tracy oliver

16:30 05 Nov 24
Friendly professional service. Excellent job and service received.
Marek Gal
Marek Gal

20:08 21 Oct 24
Very pleased with my EV Hypervolt 3 Pro charger installed by EV Solutions.Turned out just like I wanted it.Thank you
Alex Latty
Alex Latty

19:37 21 Oct 24
From start to finish it was perfect. Louis and another did the work which was a very high standard and very neat. I’m very pleased with the installation and would recommend EV Solutions.
Patrick Gritton
Patrick Gritton

20:05 06 Oct 24
Recent brought an EV and after alot of research decided to proceed with EV solutions for a Hypervolt 3 fitted at residence.Service was excellent from start to finish. Initial survey was pain free done remotely. Quotation was very competitive. Fitting was within 1 week and was professionally installed. Customer service provided by Brendon, was exceptional throughout.5* fully recommend!!
John Mcel (jcmc)
John Mcel (jcmc)

19:25 20 Sep 24
Straight forward to deal with, installation quick and professional.O
Daniel King
Daniel King

13:23 04 Sep 24
Adele
Adele

19:39 03 Sep 24
Very happy with all aspects of my Hypervolt charger installation by Brendon and Luis
Clarke Kent
Clarke Kent

20:15 29 Aug 24
I purchased both the hardware and installation from EV Solutions. It’s genuinely was the most pleasant experience I have had with tradesmen. Everything was so professional and smooth the quality of the installation (which was quite complicated) was absolutely brilliant. 100% Recommend these guys. Massive shout out to Luis and Lewis. Both chaps did a brilliant job.
Alexander Cowey
Alexander Cowey

19:08 08 Aug 24
From contact to installation and charging the EV, 9 working days,Exceptional service. I was dealing with a company and its staff who are competent with product and system knowledge, Through planning and keeping us in touch exercised minimal disruption during installation and finalisation. It was a pleasure to clear the invoice. Thank you
Tim Field
Tim Field

17:23 18 May 24
Had a Zappi charger installed on 13th May 2024 – very happy with speed and professionalism of the installation – neat job with no wires showing on the outside wall. Would highly recommend.
Bruce Murphy
Bruce Murphy

06:48 09 May 24
After years of experiencing the effects of a sub-standard installation and never benefiting from the full range of features of an EV charge point, EV Solutions have been great. A new charge point fitted with full integration with solar and home battery. Thank you. A good customer experience
Gary Thompson
Gary Thompson

09:16 16 Apr 24
From the initial home consultation, to the delivery and work carried out for install, Brendon and his team were second to none. A very professional outfit who carried out all aspects of the work brilliantly. Great job done. I would highly recommend getting in touch.
Magnum2k
Magnum2k

08:44 13 Apr 24
Having searched high and low for a charger I came across EV Solutions who surveyed my property and carried out the installation in just over a weekThe installation was carried out to such a high standard and with such precision/ professionalism that there is very little cable exposed.I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking to have a charger installed .
James Mahoney
James Mahoney

10:16 23 Mar 24
Fantastic buying experience with my Ohme Home Pro charger. The online survey was very straightforward and I was able to get the installation booked in around my availability very easily. The electrician who installed the charger was great – will definitely recommend to friends.
Kathryn Tutill
Kathryn Tutill

12:17 07 Feb 24
After months of being messed about by Pod Point I contacted EV solutions.The whole process was totally reassuring.From start to finish it took less than 2 weeks.Plus Brendon managed to ensure that it was tied in with our solar panel and battery system.A pleasure to do business with this company.Restored my faith in mankind.Thank you.
Tom Hutchinson
Tom Hutchinson

11:06 29 Jan 24
Great experience in dealing with EV Solutions. Competitively priced and offering finance options which was great given we had a more complicated install route. Proficient team who were prompt and friendly. Would wholly recommend to anyone considering using this company.
Jevgenij Turonok
Jevgenij Turonok

16:05 21 Dec 23
Very pleased with speed and quality of work. Already referred them to a friend who will also have his charger installed soon
Ben Russell
Ben Russell

12:05 15 Dec 23
Excellent install and great installer
Peter Harrison
Peter Harrison

11:47 28 Oct 23
Excellect service and very competent electricians.
Steve Hughes
Steve Hughes

12:00 19 Jun 23
Very satisfied with the discussion, quote and installation of the Hypervolt 3 by Brendan and his team from EVSolutions. Brendan was very informative during the pre-installation visit and the EVSolutions team who came to install the charger were very professional and efficient.
Marcus
Marcus

21:07 04 Jan 23
Got a Myenergi Zappi installed at home, the installers where professional and left the place clean. One of the nicest cabling jobs I’ve seen in a while. Will certainly recommend.
Andy S
Andy S

06:51 12 Oct 22
EV charger installation done to a great standard, electrician turned up when they said they would, completed job in good time with minimal disruption and very friendly.
Nigel Groves
Nigel Groves

20:47 24 Feb 22
Very good installation by a very competent team
Stephen Vasey
Stephen Vasey

11:35 24 Nov 21
Just had a Zappi 2 charger installed by EV Solutions. They were very polite during the install. Very professional and worked none stop during the whole install.The install was done and any mess was cleared away by them after the work was completed.If you are looking for professional and efficient workers you can’t go wrong with EV Solutions
Nathan Hall
Nathan Hall

17:53 21 Nov 21
I had solar panels installed by a leading north east company. They were unable to install a charger, claiming issues gaining approval from the grid supplier. Brendon sorted it no problem. Very happy with the install. Brendon may be lacking in the organisation department but he gets the job done.
Michael Hanlon
Michael Hanlon

10:37 05 Sep 21
Great service from Brendan and his lads who were efficient, helpful, tidy and very professional. Would definitely recommend to others.
Stephen Hopkirk
Stephen Hopkirk

08:20 03 Sep 21
I contacted EV Solutions to have a charger fitted at my home, Brendon provided all the information I needed and quickly came back with options and quotes, even bringing a couple types to my home for me to see and make my mind up over. Eventually went for the EO Mini Pro 2, and a fitting date was arranged. EV Solutions turned up at the right time and fitted the unit. The finished job is extremely neat, and it works as it should. Great service from this local company. Recommended.
Simon Forster
Simon Forster

16:57 16 Jun 21
Great job carried out by two very professional electricians. Arrived when they said they would, carried out the work to a high standard and left the place tidy. Provided some good advice for the future. Would highly recommend EV Solutions for installation of a home EV charger. Thanks lads.
Keith Kay
Keith Kay

19:53 20 Feb 21
Very friendly staff with good clear and concise communication. Skilled, clean & tidy workers. I have enjoyed dealing with this company and its staff.

More reviews

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Contact Us

0191 5976780
info@EVSolutions.uk
Stage Left Productions ltd

TA- EV Solutions

21 Gillingham Road

Sunderland

SR4 8LB

Stage Left Productions ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Kanda. Kanda is a trading style of Kanda Products & Services Ltd, Forward House, 17 High Street, Henley-in-Arden, B95 5AA, registered in England (11330964), authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (firm reference number 920795). Kanda is acting as a credit broker offering finance products from a panel of lenders Credit is subject to status. Representative example: 11.9% APR Representative based on a loan of £5000 repayable over 60 months at an interest rate of 11.9% pa (fixed). Monthly repayment of £109.45. Total amount payable £6567.16. - Copyright 2020