The upcoming all-electric Volvo EX90 will be the first Volvo car to be hardware-ready for two-way charging capabilities, relieving the grid of unnecessary strain through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) customer action.
Two-way charging has made its name in the energy transition as it allows not only businesses but also consumers to coordinate energy efficiency, reduce bills and contribute to grid relief initiatives.
According to Volvo, the EX90 will be paired with smart charging capabilities coming to the Volvo Cars smartphone app.
Consumers will be able to charge when grid demand and prices are low – typically meaning there are more renewables in the energy mix – and save that stored energy for later use. This power can also be used to power the home, buildings and other electrical devices, as well as other compatible Volvos.
When available, the charging process will be automatic and controlled by the Smart Charging feature in the Volvo Cars app.
According to the company, the underlying algorithm will ensure that the battery is charged and discharged in a limited manner to reduce the risk of battery degradation.
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Two-way network support
Depending on the rules specific to each energy market, two-way charging can also allow clients to support the network in different ways.
This may include taking in more energy during times when there is an excess of renewable energy, or selling energy back during peak consumption hours when there is more demand. If most cars have this functionality in the future, then the grid can be balanced more often.
Volvo cites how this type of V2G technology will increase overall grid resilience by reducing potential losses of renewable energy at times when production exceeds demand.
“We believe in a future that our customers can support grid using this technology, enabling more efficient and sustainable use of electricity in everyday life,” said Head of Electrification Ecosystem Olivier Lödel.
The Volvo EX90 will be unveiled on November 9.
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