Unlocking the power of your EV
You’ve likely heard about the significant environmental benefits of electric vehicles, or about the extra dollars they save owners in the long term too.
But did you know the thrill of electric vehicles goes even further? Many EVs have bi-directional charging capabilities. This feature allows EVs to direct power to other appliances, buildings or even the grid in some cases. The most common type of bi-directional charging is called Vehicle-to-Load (V2L).
V2L is when a battery electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid vehicle uses its battery to power external devices such as fridges, freezers, hair dryers, coffee makers or other small appliances. It can be used in many situations where there is little to no power supply.
You may be asking yourself, “What can I use my EV’s V2L capabilities to power?”
The answer is just about anything that you plug into a wall socket in your house can be powered by your electric vehicle! Many popular EVs can operate power tools, heaters, electric stoves, computers and much more. This provides a portable power source for camping equipment, outdoor events, and many other instances where you would need a portable power source.
V2L provides flexibility by eliminating the need for separate generators or power banks, streamlining the number of devices and equipment needed for various tasks. Another neat benefit is using an EV’s battery to power other devices can lead to cost savings and increased efficiency. In the future, V2L technology could be used to power appliances, potentially reducing electricity bills if paired with time-of-use rate plans. Owners with solar panels could also store excess energy in their EV and use it later via V2L, maximizing the use of renewable energy and reducing reliance on the grid.
You might wonder, “How long can my car power devices without being charged?”
The length of time your car can power external devices will depend largely on the size of the battery and the draw of your appliances. The smallest battery, like that of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, would only power a small or medium-sized appliance for a short time before it would need to be recharged. However, a bi-directional charging battery electric vehicle like the Ford F-150 Lightning would have enough energy to keep an average Canadian home powered for three whole days!
Embracing the V2L capabilities of an EV not only enhances the versatility and functionality of the vehicle, but it also opens a world of new possibilities. Whether you’re seeking convenience, cost savings or a reliable backup power source, V2L technology ensures that your EV is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a powerful tool for modern living.
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Electrify Rebate program
Up to $8000 in Provincial and Federal rebates exist for qualifying electric vehicles.
