General Motors recently announced its vehicle-to-home (V2H) system that will launch with the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST, allowing EV owners to back up their homes without the need for a storage battery or backup generator. This move is part of GM’s larger energy strategy, which envisions EVs becoming home power banks. The Silverado EV, with its massive 205-kWh capacity, can power an American home for days. Initially, the V2H bundle will only be available in select states, but GM plans to expand this technology across all its Ultium-based EVs by 2026. This article delves into the details of GM’s V2H system and its implications for EV owners.
**GM Energy App:**
GM’s ultimate goal with the V2H system is to integrate bidirectional charging technology into all its Ultium-based EVs by 2026. The 2024 GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Cadillac Lyriq, and future Cadillac Escalade IQ will all be part of this rollout. While initially, it was planned to be integrated through the GM Energy app, GM has now decided to incorporate it into the respective brand apps (Chevy, GMC, or Cadillac) for easier access.
**Batteries Included, Other Hardware Needed:**
To access the V2H functionality, EV owners will need to purchase the GM Energy Powershift Charger and V2H Enablement Kit, at a total cost of $7,299. These components provide the necessary hardware for bidirectional charging. Installation costs may vary depending on factors such as location and electrical setup. Additionally, GM will offer stationary energy storage and solar integration options to complete the energy ecosystem.
**Chevy V2H: Like Ford, Leave Thousands for Installation:**
Although GM is not the first to offer V2H functionality, following in the footsteps of Ford’s Home Integration System, it aims to provide a seamless experience for its customers. Ford’s system, in collaboration with SunRun, has installation costs ranging from $8,900 to $9,400, raising concerns about affordability. Tesla also offers a similar feature with the Cybertruck, but at a lower installation cost of $2,000 to $3,500, excluding equipment expenses.
**EV Home Backup and the Shift to Tesla NACS:**
One of the unanswered questions regarding GM’s V2H system is its compatibility with other EVs using the upcoming Tesla-based NACS connector. While NACS supports V2X technologies, it remains uncertain if existing hardware would require updates for future EV compatibility. Currently, only a few EVs like the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90 offer home backup capabilities, which might change with the shift to NACS.
**GM Energy – Ultium Home:**
An essential consideration with V2H systems is the need to keep the vehicle plugged in for home backup power. This limitation raises concerns about mobility during power outages or emergencies. While V2H systems offer convenience, some homeowners may opt for additional battery backup solutions for added security. Despite advancements in V2H technology, the Tesla Powerwall remains a reliable and cost-effective alternative for home backup power.
In conclusion, GM’s V2H system presents an innovative approach to integrating EVs into the home energy ecosystem. While facing competition from other automakers like Ford and Tesla, GM aims to provide a seamless and efficient solution for EV owners looking to power their homes. As the energy landscape evolves, the adoption of V2H systems could redefine how we utilize electric vehicles in our daily lives.