Wallbox, a key player in the electric vehicle (EV) charging and energy management industry, has announced a partnership with Kia America. The collaboration aims to offer Kia’s EV9 customers the Quasar 2, Wallbox’s second-generation DC bidirectional charger, starting in the first half of 2024. The Quasar 2 is expected to be the leading EV charger to support bidirectional charging with the Kia EV9.
Bidirectional charging, a feature of the Quasar 2, is a game-changer. It allows EV owners to not only charge their vehicles but also discharge their EVs to power their homes (V2H) or return energy to the grid (V2G). Interestingly, a Kia EV9 can store enough energy to power an average household for up to four days, eliminating the need for expensive home energy storage systems.
Additionally, in the event of power outages, the Quasar 2’s innovative Power Recovery Mode automatically switches the user’s power supply from the grid to their vehicle. This ensures that homeowners can rely on their EV battery as an emergency power source. Given the frequent and prolonged power disruptions in the U.S., this feature is not just a luxury but a necessity.
Key points to note include:
– The Quasar 2 Charger: A groundbreaking 11.5kW bidirectional charger.
– Vehicle Energy Capacity: Kia EV9 has an energy capacity ranging from 76 to 100kWh, more than five times the energy in a standard 13.5kWh home storage unit.
– Emergency Power Backup: In the face of power cuts, the Quasar 2 seamlessly switches to using the vehicle’s battery.
– Significant Savings: Wallbox suggests that combining the Quasar 2 with utility Demand Response programs and time-of-use utility tariffs could save users over $1,000 annually.
– Beneficial for Solar Panel Users: Owners with solar panels can store excess solar energy in their EV during low-usage periods and then use this energy during peak periods, reducing reliance on the grid.
Enric Asunción, CEO and co-founder of Wallbox, expressed excitement about the Wallbox-Kia America partnership, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize energy usage. He highlighted the benefits of bidirectional charging for users, grid operators, utilities, and the wider shift towards renewable energy sources. When paired with an EV like Kia’s EV9, which supports bidirectional charging, the Quasar 2 emerges as a highly efficient and cost-effective solution for home energy management.
Source: [Wallbox and Kia America Join Forces on Bidirectional EV Charging](https://investors.wallbox.com/news/news-details/2023/Wallbox-and-Kia-America-Join-Forces-on-Bidirectional-EV-Charging/default.aspx)
Kia America Joins Forces with Wallbox for Bidirectional Charging Partnership
In a significant stride towards sustainable mobility and the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), Kia America has announced its partnership with Wallbox, a leading provider of smart charging solutions. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the EV charging landscape by introducing bidirectional charging technology, allowing EV owners to not only charge their vehicles but also utilize their stored energy for various purposes.
Bidirectional charging, also known as Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, enables EVs to be charged and discharged, contributing to the stability of the power grid. This innovative solution allows EVs to not only draw energy from the grid but also feed it back when necessary, effectively transforming EVs into mobile energy storage units. By enabling bidirectional charging, Kia and Wallbox are taking another step towards promoting sustainable energy practices and providing greater flexibility to EV owners.
The partnership between Kia America and Wallbox will introduce a new level of convenience and value for EV owners. With the implementation of bidirectional charging technology, EVs will become an integral part of the electricity grid, enabling owners to actively participate in the energy market. This empowerment allows EV owners to not only reduce their carbon footprint but also benefit financially by selling surplus energy back to the grid during periods of high demand.
Wallbox, renowned for its cutting-edge charging solutions, will provide the necessary technology and infrastructure required to enable bidirectional charging. Their proven expertise and experience in developing smart charging products ensure the successful integration of this advanced technology into Kia’s electric vehicle lineup. This collaboration will result in a seamless user experience, providing EV owners with a hassle-free and efficient charging solution.
By partnering with Wallbox, Kia America demonstrates its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and its dedication to delivering innovative and user-friendly experiences to its customers. This partnership aligns with Kia’s “Plan S” strategy, which aims to establish a strong foothold in the EV market and become a leading player in the global automotive industry. By incorporating bidirectional charging technology into their EVs, Kia is effectively supporting the widespread adoption of renewable energy and contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
The introduction of bidirectional charging technology signifies a significant breakthrough in the EV industry. Not only does it provide greater flexibility and convenience for EV owners, but it also presents immense opportunities for the wider energy sector. As the adoption of EVs grows, bidirectional charging technology will become a crucial component in stabilizing the grid and achieving a sustainable energy future.
With the partnership between Kia America and Wallbox, the stage is set for a revolutionary change in the EV charging landscape. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, it becomes increasingly important to provide innovative solutions that address the challenges associated with EV charging. By embracing bidirectional charging technology, Kia is poised to lead the industry towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
In conclusion, Kia America’s collaboration with Wallbox to introduce bidirectional charging technology marks a significant milestone in the EV industry. This partnership not only facilitates the adoption of sustainable energy practices but also empowers EV owners to actively participate in the electricity grid. By combining Kia’s commitment to innovation and Wallbox’s expertise in smart charging solutions, this partnership sets the stage for a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future.