The potential of charging technology now extends beyond simply powering the cars we drive. With bidirectional charging, the batteries in our vehicles can not only provide fuel for the road but energy for our homes and even our shared electrical grid. But how does bidirectional charging work, and is it worth investing in? Let's find out in this article!

What Is Bidirectional Charging?

Typically, EV charging is a one-way process: from a power source to a car's battery, and alternating current (AC) power from the grid is converted to direct current (DC). However, bidirectional charging allows the vehicle to convert stored DC energy back into AC electricity for various uses. 

When do I need bidirectional charging?

Bidirectional charging can be used in different ways, but the most common applications involve four types.

• Vehicle to grid (V2G): A vehicle with V2G charging capability can send electricity back to the utility network. This can facilitate more energy efficiency for a local power grid and lead to cost savings by enabling charger owners to get paid to help maintain grid reliability.
• Vehicle to home (V2H): Bidirectional charging also means that you can turn your car battery into a backup power source for your home. Households that pay time-of-use rates could save money by using power from their EV battery during times of peak energy demand and charging the battery when electricity rates are lower. 
• Vehicle to load (V2L): This is probably the most common type of bidirectional charging available today. That's because vehicles with V2L capabilities have a built-in DC to AC inverter plus a standard power outlet. It enables people to plug their loads into the outlet, using power from the battery.
• Vehicle to vehicle (V2V): V2V charging is one way to help overcome range anxiety because this feature enables an EV to provide some power to another.