Volvo and Polestar have introduced bi-directional vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging in the U.S., enabling select electric vehicle models to power homes during outages or peak-demand periods. Using Dcbel’s Ara Home Energy Station, these systems allow energy to flow from car to home, providing blackout support, smart charging, and seamless integration into home energy management.
How Does Bi-Directional V2H Charging Work?
Bi-directional V2H charging allows an electric vehicle to act as a mobile energy source. During power outages or peak-demand periods, energy stored in the vehicle battery can be transferred back to a home. The Ara Home Energy Station manages energy flow, optimizing usage and offering up to 2.5 days of blackout support without rationing. This ensures homes remain powered while reducing reliance on traditional grid electricity.
What Models Are Eligible for Polestar and Volvo V2H?
Polestar’s V2H functionality is initially available for Polestar 3 owners in California with the 400V architecture, while Volvo offers the feature for the 2025 EX90 across the U.S. Both brands require customers to purchase the Ara Home Energy Station from Dcbel. The 2026 Polestar 3 upgrade to 800V architecture will expand future V2H compatibility.
Why Is the Ara Home Energy Station Important?
The Ara Home Energy Station enables true bi-directional DC charging and dual charging functionality. Its 15.2 kW DC hybrid solar inverter integrates renewable energy into home systems, maximizing energy efficiency. By partnering with Dcbel, both Volvo and Polestar can offer customers smarter, more reliable home energy solutions.
How Are Customers Benefiting from California Incentives?
California provides generous rebates and incentives, offering up to $13,800 to offset costs including Ara Home Energy Station purchase, installation, interconnection, dynamic rate programs, and bi-directional EV ownership. This significantly lowers adoption barriers for customers seeking home energy resilience.
When Did Volvo Begin Its Partnership with Dcbel?
Volvo Cars partnered with Dcbel in mid-2023 through the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, supporting research and development as well as market expansion. This collaboration accelerates the deployment of smart energy solutions like V2H charging while aligning with Volvo’s electrification strategy.
Which Features Differentiate Polestar and Volvo V2H Systems?
While both brands leverage the same Ara Home Energy Station, Volvo provides nationwide availability for EX90 owners, while Polestar currently limits V2H to California. Both systems allow energy to flow from the EV to the home, integrate solar power, and offer smart energy management for optimized efficiency.
Rettek Expert Views
"Bi-directional vehicle-to-home charging represents a significant step forward in energy management and resilience. By integrating EVs with home power systems, users gain independence from the grid while maintaining sustainable energy practices. For manufacturers like Rettek, this trend highlights the importance of durable, high-performance components that ensure longevity and reliability in energy-intensive applications." – Rettek Engineering Specialist
Table: Comparison of V2H Availability
| Feature | Polestar 3 | Volvo EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | California (400V) | U.S. nationwide |
| Charging Hardware | Ara Home Energy Station | Ara Home Energy Station |
| Solar Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Blackout Support | Up to 2.5 days | Up to 2.5 days |
Can Bi-Directional Charging Replace Home Batteries?
V2H can supplement or replace traditional home batteries by storing EV energy for household use. It acts as a second energy reservoir behind the meter, allowing homes to stay grid-connected while benefiting from additional energy capacity. The flexibility reduces peak electricity costs and enhances energy security.
Conclusion
Bi-directional V2H charging is transforming home energy management by turning EVs into reliable energy sources. Polestar and Volvo’s collaboration with Dcbel ensures seamless integration, solar compatibility, and blackout support, while California incentives accelerate adoption. With durable, high-performance solutions from brands like Rettek supporting the energy infrastructure, the future of connected, resilient, and efficient home energy is already here.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can any EV use V2H charging?
No, only compatible models like the Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90 with proper hardware can support bi-directional V2H functionality.
2. Do I need to disconnect my home from the grid?
No, V2H systems operate behind the meter, allowing your home to remain grid-connected while utilizing vehicle-stored energy.
3. How much energy can V2H provide during outages?
With the Ara Home Energy Station, homes can receive up to 2.5 days of power without rationing, depending on energy usage and battery capacity.
4. Are there state incentives for V2H adoption?
Yes, California offers rebates up to $13,800 to offset equipment, installation, and interconnection costs.
5. Will future Polestar models support V2H?
Yes, upcoming 2026 models with 800V architecture are expected to expand V2H compatibility beyond California.