Electric vehicles (EVs) have long been touted for their potential to power homes during power outages, but the answer is not always straightforward. While modern EVs come equipped with large, efficient batteries capable of storing enough energy to power homes for days, only a handful of models currently support vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology, also known as bi-directional charging.
This technology allows electricity to safely flow back out of the car and into the home. Honda has announced that its upcoming Acura RSX will feature this capability, while the 2026 Chevy Bolt returns with bidirectional V2H capability.
Other manufacturers, such as Ford, have also explored V2H technology in their vehicles. To determine which EVs can offer this functionality, it's essential to research and compare different models.
In theory, modern EVs have the potential to power homes during outages, but only if they are equipped with the necessary hardware and software. The lack of widespread adoption of V2H technology has led to confusion among consumers, making it difficult to know which EVs can meet this need.
Fortunately, as more manufacturers develop and release vehicles with V2H capabilities, consumers will have more options to choose from.
The increasing availability of vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology in electric vehicles is a game-changer for homeowners who want to reduce their reliance on traditional power sources. As more manufacturers adopt this capability, it's essential for consumers to research and understand the benefits and limitations of V2H technology.
