Bidirectional charging (V2L, V2H, V2G)
An EV that not only charges but also feeds back: to appliances (V2L), to a home (V2H) or to the grid (V2G).
Bidirectional charging means the car can also give energy back out of the battery. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) powers separate appliances via a socket adapter, often around 2 to 3.7 kW. Vehicle-to-home (V2H) supplies a home behind the meter. Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) feeds back to the electricity grid and requires a certified bidirectional charger and arrangements with the grid operator or a provider.
The functions are not interchangeable. V2L is on more and more models and works without extra infrastructure. V2H and V2G place demands on the car, the charging installation, the charging protocol and the regulation, and are available only to a limited extent per country and model. Whether feeding back loads the battery extra depends on scale and frequency; manufacturers sometimes set conditions or warranty provisions for this.
On spec sheets we state whether a model supports V2L and at what power, as a manufacturer statement. We name V2H and V2G suitability only where the manufacturer explicitly states it, with the caveat that the practical use depends on the grid and legislation.
See also: Charging power (AC/DC), Mild hybrid, full hybrid & PHEV, SOC & SOH, Battery degradation
Source: OEM manufacturer statement; V2H/V2G depend on country and infrastructure, indicative
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