Kia Expands EV Capabilities with Smart Charging and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) Technology
Kia is significantly enhancing its electric vehicle (EV) lineup by introducing innovative smart charging and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) services, as part of Hyundai Motor Group’s global initiative to expand Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology. These advancements aim to transform EVs from mere transportation devices into integral components of energy management systems, offering users increased efficiency and cost savings.
Smart Charging in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, Kia has launched the Kia Smart Charge app, designed to help EV owners reduce their electricity expenses by optimizing charging times. The app synchronizes with home chargers and energy providers to charge vehicles during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This strategic charging approach not only cuts costs but also alleviates strain on the power grid during peak demand periods. The app is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store and is compatible with any home charger. Later this year, Kia plans to expand its offerings with a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) service, enabling customers to sell surplus energy back to the grid, further enhancing savings and promoting energy sustainability.
Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) in the United States
Starting February 28, 2025, Kia is introducing V2H services for EV9 owners in select U.S. states, including California, Washington, New York, Florida, Texas, New Jersey, and Illinois. This feature allows the EV9 to serve as a backup power source during outages, providing households with a reliable energy supply in emergencies. Additionally, the V2H capability enables the vehicle to store energy when electricity rates are low and discharge it back into the home during peak hours, effectively reducing household energy costs. To utilize this service, a Wallbox Quasar 2 charger and a Wallbox Power Recovery Unit for backup power functionality are required. Kia is actively collaborating with major utilities in California to further extend its V2G program, aiming to offer customers the ability to trade surplus energy by sending power back to the grid.
Hyundai Motor Group, Kia’s parent company, is committed to broadening the scope of V2X services globally. The Group plans to sequentially expand these services across key regions, with Hyundai Motor Company set to launch its offerings later this year. These initiatives align with the Group’s vision of evolving EVs into energy-efficient, connected hubs that extend beyond traditional transportation roles. By integrating smart charging, V2H, and upcoming V2G services, Hyundai Motor Group aims to provide customers with enhanced convenience, significant cost savings, and improved energy management solutions.
Kia’s latest enhancements position its EVs as more than just vehicles; they become essential tools for energy management and resilience. By leveraging these advanced technologies, Kia is at the forefront of transforming the EV landscape, offering innovative solutions that benefit both consumers and the broader energy ecosystem.
If you are an EV manufacturer (or) EV Dealer (or) EV Supporter who wants to share news related to Electric vehicles on our website, please send an email to crm@electricvehicles.in
For the latest Electric vehicles news,
follow electricvehicles.in on
and our YouTube Channels
