Kia announced on the 26th that it will launch smart charging and Vehicle to Home (V2H) services, starting in certain regions of Europe and the United States. Smart charging has been launched in the Netherlands, while V2H has been introduced in California and six other states.
Kia explained that during times when electricity rates are low, electric vehicles can be charged automatically, and excess power after driving can be utilized at home or potentially sold back to the power grid, which may provide additional economic benefits.
Smart charging is a service that automatically analyzes the differences in electricity rates by time of day and charges the electric vehicle when it reaches the optimal rate if the customer leaves the charging plug connected to the vehicle.
Customers can manage their charging expenses by checking real-time charging amounts and energy cost savings through the smart charging dedicated mobile application (app) 'Kia Smart Charge.'
Kia is also considering launching a Vehicle to Grid (V2G) service that would allow electric vehicle owners to sell excess power back to the grid in conjunction with its smart charging service in the future.
V2H emergency power is a service that uses the electric vehicle as a power source for the home. When electricity rates are low, the vehicle can be charged, and when rates are high, the stored power can be used at home, helping to reduce electricity costs. It is particularly useful during emergencies, such as blackouts, when power stored in the vehicle can be used at home.
A representative from Hyundai Motor Group noted, "We plan to expand smart charging and V2H emergency power services considering the situation in major global regions going forward," adding that "Hyundai Motor Company also plans to launch services within the year."