German carmaker Volkswagen announced that bi-directional charging is finally available with the ID. Software 3.5 version or higher to all new electric models with the 77 kWh battery (net).

With the ‘Vehicle to Home’ (V2H) function, people can store excess solar power in the car’s battery or use it to power the home over several cloudy days or in the evening when the sun has set, and electricity production is too low.

First on CCS

Volkswagen claims to be one of the first providers of a bi-directional charging solution for CCS (Combined Charging System) DC charging standard based on ISO 15118-2, which describes the communication between electric vehicles and wall boxes.

So far, only a handful of EVs, like the Nissan Leaf, could offer bi-directional charging via the Japanese CHAdeMO connector, which is being phased out in Europe. But, before getting too enthusiastic, Volkswagen warns that in the first version, the relevant ID. models are only compatible with the DC home power station of the S10 E COMPACT series from HagerEnergy GmbH.

That one is a well-known family-owned electricity expert, a leading provider of solutions and services for electrical installations in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. You’ll also need Hager’s Home Energy Management System (HEMS). Later, Volkswagen says, it will become available for other home power stations and wall boxes.

Pilot in remodeled farm

In the Swedish town of Hudiksvall,  Volkswagen and Hager have set up a pilot project with residents of the Stenberg housing estate, a 350-year-old farm that was remodeled as the basis for the new settlement. “Using electric vehicles as energy storage was considered from the outset,” entrepreneur Klas Boman said.

“Stenberg is a once-in-a-lifetime project. When we decided to realize ‘the other 350-year project’, energy and the environment were key. Every decision was made with these aspects in mind. Volkswagen joined the project in April 2021, and we are now ready to go. This will be one of the biggest changes in the energy market.”

Dynamic extension of home storage

Volkswagen explains the bidirectional charging function in the ID. models in combination with the DC charging technology is a dynamic extension of the home storage system. “This takes over the primary energy supply for the house.”

“The home power station activates the vehicle when the home storage system requires additional energy. When the home storage system is recharged, the vehicle stops transferring energy and enters standby mode. This means the ID. is only activated when additional energy is required.”

VW claims that assuming an average consumption of approximately 30 kWh, a house can be supplied with electricity for around two full days. The high-voltage battery cannot be discharged below 20% state of charge to ensure readiness for mobility.