Vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging technology, which enables an EV to serve as a home backup power source, is expected to be a big selling point for automakers. In fact, GM just released some details about its upcoming bidirectional V2H charging hardware, even though it does not yet have any V2H-capable vehicle on offer.
The Ultium Home V2H Bundle includes a bidirectional Level 2 AC home charger, the PowerShift Charger, along with an inverter and a “dark start” battery. The PowerShift can charge a vehicle at 19.2 kW, and can discharge power to a home at 9.6 kW (peak).
An optional PowerBank battery storage unit will be available in 10.6 kWh and 17.7 kWh versions, and an optional inverter will enable the integration of solar panels.
SunPower, GM’s preferred EV charging installer, will also be recommended for installation of Ultium Home V2H hardware.
GM has not released pricing or a timeline for availability. Last October, when GM first announced its Ultium Home systems, it suggested that they would be available along with the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV. The latest word on the Silverado is that reservations are closed, and that deliveries of the Work Truck trim are expected to begin this fall.
Crosstown rival Ford is already delivering a V2H system to go with its bi-capable F-150 Lightning, and CEO Jim Farley said in June that it’s turning out to be a huge hit. Ford’s system is said to cost about $6,000 including installation.
Source: GM, Green Car Reports