Volvo Introduces Bi-directional Charging on the Upcoming EX90
October 07 2022,
Volvo is getting ready to unveil the all-new EX90 electric SUV on November 9, but we already know about one of the new technologies this vehicle will showcase.
Power flows both ways
Electric vehicles usually use power from the grid to charge their battery and then they burn through this stored power while driving. With the addition of bi-directional charging, the upcoming Volvo EX90 will be able to do much more. Indeed, this technology means that the vehicle is able to send power back out from its battery via the charging port.
Many use cases.
This can be useful in many situations. For example, the Volvo EX90 will be able to charge other batteries used in power, tools, electric bikes, outboard engines, portable air compressors, etc. This means that drivers with an active lifestyle will be able to benefit from a powerful source of electricity no matter where they are. In addition, bi-directional charging can be used to rescue other Volvo electric vehicles that have run out of battery and it can also make the EX90 function as an emergency generator that can power an entire house during a power shortage.
In order to protect the battery from avoidable wear and tear, the entire charging and discharging process is controlled by the Volvo Cars App. This means that the state of charge of the battery is constantly monitored and maintained in a safe range either while charging or when using bi-directional charging.
Other benefits
The Volvo EX90 will also be able to use its bi-directional charging feature to lower its owner’s power bills. This is possible because the battery is powerful enough to power most houses on its own, which means that owners could choose to disconnect themselves from the power grid entirely during periods of peak usage, where the price of electricity is the highest. Also, many electricity providers offer credits to homeowners who can supply power to the grid, which is possible with the EX90.
