Your Guide to Bidirectional Charging: V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything), V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid), and more

ICE-22 V2X DC Fast charger (22kW, single dispenser)

The Basics of V2X

Vehicle to Everything (V2X) charging is a powerful technology that enables the charging and discharging of energy to and from compatible vehicles and to other external systems. This bidirectional energy flow allows EVs to act as both energy consumers and providers.

V2X chargers, which enable V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) and other “Vehicle-to” applications (described below) when used for bidirectional charging with compatible EVs, offer robust benefits:

greater flexibility for energy use as EVs discharge to external systems
a backup power solution (ie, during outages)
cost savings, by enabling energy storage when prices are lower for use via discharge when demand, and prices, are higher
support for renewable energy sources while enhancing grid resilience.

Key Applications of V2X

Bidirectional charging enables multiple discharge use cases

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)
Allows EVs to send stored energy back to the grid,
helping to balance energy supply and demand.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V)
Enables one EV to transfer energy directly to another, utilizing the stored energy in vehicles not in use for vehicles that need power.

Vehicle-to-Building (V2B)
Allows EVs to power homes or commercial buildings, improving energy efficiency and providing backup support.

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)
EVs can supply energy to power standalone devices or equipment, offering a flexible solution for remote areas or powering tools and appliances on the go.

InCharge V2X chargers facilitate charging and discharging for compatible EVs; the process is streamlined via InControl™ Charge Management & Maintenance Software.

ICE-22 V2X, ICE-44 V2X, ICE-66 V2X

Key Benefits

Supports multiple discharge use cases, such as Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V)
Enables discharge of stored energy from EVs for other purposes as needed for potential cost savings and greater flexibility
Contributes to grid stability and sustainability

Ideal Use Cases

Fleets in areas with distributed energy resource programs or funding opportunities with V2X or V2G requirements
Schools designated as emergency shelter locations, where the energy stored in electric school buses could be used to power the building in case of an outage