Polestar has launched a bi-directional charging offer, making it possible for drivers to use their car as a powerbank and monetise it when parked while supporting the grid
Initially available to Polestar 3 customers in California ahead of a wider rollout in the US and other markets, the solution uses direct current (DC) and enables vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality on the 400V electrical architecture.
Further benefits when used in conjunction with Dcbel’s home energy system mean Polestar 3 customers in California can reduce charging costs and use the car as blackout protection support for their homes.
Bi-directional charging technology allows electric cars to both charge and discharge energy from their batteries, with the capability to send energy to the user’s home or back to the electricity grid.
Also, in Germany, Polestar has launched the Zaptec Go2 bi-directional-ready AC home charger together with partner Zaptec.
Compatible with Polestar 3, this charger enables bi-directional charging when the feature becomes available for the car in the future and will roll out to further European markets.
Michael Lohscheller, Polestar CEO, said, “Bi-directional charging is a gamechanger, not only for the car industry, but the home energy ecosystem.
“As it lowers your total cost of ownership and makes your car work for you even when parked, this makes the choice of driving a Polestar even more attractive.”
Olivier Loedel, head of software product management at Polestar, said, “We are very excited to deliver this initial bi-directional charging offer together with our North American partner Dcbel.
“It’s a new technology that requires a sophisticated and intelligent ecosystem, and this marks an important first step as we aim to launch bi-directional charging features to more Polestar customer in more markets.”
