A V2G charger is an advanced system that goes beyond the simple task of charging your car. While a typical unidirectional charger supplies AC (alternating current) power to your vehicle’s onboard charger—which then converts it to DC (direct current) to charge the battery—bidirectional chargers bypass the onboard unit. They handle both AC-to-DC conversion for charging and DC-to-AC conversion for discharging, essentially acting like high-powered inverters.

This two-way functionality means your EV battery can become an energy source, either powering your home (vehicle-to-home or V2H) or contributing to the grid (vehicle-to-grid or V2G). However, not all EVs are capable of supporting bidirectional charging. Currently, only a few models, such as the Nissan Leaf, offer this capability.

The Role of Standards and Regulations

Until recently, bidirectional chargers were not approved for connection to the electricity grid in many countries. However, this has begun to change. In Australia and New Zealand, updated standards such as AS4777.1 and AS4777.2 now include provisions for bidirectional systems. These standards ensure that devices comply with safety and performance guidelines, particularly concerning grid stability and “islanding”—the ability to isolate a home from the grid during outages.

With regulatory approval now underway, bidirectional charging is poised to become a key feature in future smart homes, especially those integrating solar power and home energy management systems.

Current Options on the Market

Though still an emerging technology, several companies have released or are developing V2G chargers. These range from compact home units to powerful systems suitable for commercial use.

Sigenergy SigenStor

One of the most advanced systems currently available is the Sigenergy SigenStor. More than just a charger, this system combines a hybrid solar inverter, home battery storage, and a V2G charger into one sleek unit. The charger comes in two capacities: 12.5kW and 25kW, making it ideal for large solar arrays and high-capacity EV batteries.

Its integrated DC power bus allows for direct solar-to-vehicle charging, increasing efficiency. The system also supports full off-grid operation when paired with the optional Gateway backup box, providing a UPS-like feature during blackouts.

Pricing is competitive, starting at AU$6,000 (~US$4,000) for the smaller unit and AU$7,000 (~US$5,000) for the 25kW model.

Wallbox Quasar and Quasar 2

Wallbox was one of the first companies to introduce a home bidirectional charger. The original Quasar model offered 7.4kW of two-way DC charging but only supported CHAdeMO connectors, limiting it to older EVs like the Nissan Leaf.

The updated Quasar 2 addresses many of the limitations. It now offers up to 11.5kW, features a blackout mode for home backup power, and sports a modern, display-free design. The Quasar 2 is expected to support grid isolation through an external contactor for seamless switching during outages.

Ambibox DC Wallbox

Germany’s Ambibox offers an 11kW and 22kW DC Wallbox charger compatible with CCS connectors and a wide range of connectivity options, including OCPP, MQTT, and SmartHome integration. Ambibox has successfully demonstrated V2H with various vehicles—including the Tesla Model Y and 3—suggesting that many EVs may already support bidirectional charging with minimal adjustments.

Rectifier Technologies Highbury

This Australian-made bidirectional charger claims an efficiency of 96% and is designed for home use. With 7kW and 11kW models, the Highbury features a slimline design and promises future support for both V2H and V2G. It will be compatible with CHAdeMO and CCS vehicles.

Emporia V2X

Emporia, based in Colorado, is set to release a budget-friendly bidirectional charger featuring a silicon-carbide-based inverter. With a maximum output of 11.5kW and off-grid support, it integrates with Emporia’s home energy system for smart control. Early pricing hints at around US$1,500, though the unit is still in development.

Fermata Energy FE-20

Fermata Energy is one of the leaders in V2G solutions. Its FE-20 model is a 20kW DC charger compatible with CHAdeMO vehicles. It is UL 9741 certified and has been widely used in grid-tied applications with the Nissan Leaf.

Delta V2H and Ford Charge Station Pro

Delta Electronics has developed a 3-phase V2H charger available in 11kW and 22kW versions. While primarily supporting CHAdeMO, a smaller 6kW version is also in the works.

Meanwhile, Ford’s Charge Station Pro, developed with Delta, works exclusively with the F-150 Lightning. It provides 19.2kW of charging and up to 9.6kW of home backup power when integrated with Ford’s Home Integration System—priced between US$12,000 to $15,000.

GM Energy PowerShift Charger

GM has its own V2H system bundled with the PowerShift Charger. The full bundle includes a 9.6kW inverter, “dark start” battery, and smart energy hub. It’s designed to provide reliable home backup using compatible GM EVs. Prices range from US$7,299 for the kit to $12,700 with home battery storage.

Autel MaxiCharger V2X

Autel’s 12kW MaxiCharger V2X offers compatibility with both CHAdeMO and CCS, and features advanced communication protocols, making it future-ready. It supports high-voltage EV platforms and both V2H and V2G operations, although the release date and pricing remain unconfirmed.

Enphase and SolarEdge Chargers

Solar inverter giants Enphase and SolarEdge are entering the bidirectional space. Enphase’s charger leverages its IQ8 microinverter technology and integrates seamlessly with its home energy systems. Meanwhile, SolarEdge’s charger will deliver up to 12kW (charging) and 24kW (discharging), ideal for high-voltage EVs and expected by late 2024.

The Future of Bidirectional Charging

With regulatory approvals catching up and major players entering the market, bidirectional EV charging is set to become a cornerstone of the renewable energy ecosystem. It offers significant benefits—using EVs as mobile batteries to support the home and grid, lower electricity bills by charging off-peak and discharging during peak times, and providing emergency backup power.

Still, adoption hinges on broader compatibility with EVs. While some manufacturers, like Nissan and Ford, have embraced the technology, others, such as Tesla, have held off—possibly due to concerns about cannibalizing home battery sales. However, independent tests have already shown Tesla vehicles can support V2H, suggesting it’s only a matter of time before wider rollout.

Bidirectional EV charging is no longer just a futuristic concept—it’s here and evolving rapidly. With growing consumer demand, advancing technology, and supportive regulations, it’s poised to redefine how we interact with energy. From smarter homes to a more resilient grid, the humble V2G charger is becoming one of the most powerful tools in the transition to a cleaner, more flexible energy future.