Currently, only a handful of electric vehicles (EVs) on the market offer Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) or Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which allows them to power your house during an outage. The key players are the Ford F-150 Lightning, the Nissan Leaf (with specific equipment), and the newer Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 (with a separate accessory). This feature, often called bidirectional charging, turns your EV into a massive backup battery, typically providing enough power to run essential home appliances for days.
For this to work, you need more than just the right car. Your home must be equipped with a compatible bidirectional charger and often a transfer switch, which safely isolates your home from the grid during an outage to prevent back-feeding electricity, which is a critical safety hazard for utility workers. The setup is an investment, but for those in areas prone to power outages, it can be a game-changer, effectively making your EV a clean, silent, and mobile generator.
The power output and duration vary significantly by model. The Ford F-150 Lightning, with its massive battery, is the standout, especially with the optional 9.6 kW Pro Power Onboard system.
| EV Model | V2H Capability | Estimated Backup Power (for a typical home) | Key Requirement |
|---|
| Ford F-150 Lightning | Up to 9.6 kW (Extended Range battery) | 3-10 days on essential loads | Ford Intelligent Backup Power system |
| Nissan Leaf (2013+) | Up to 6 kW (with CHAdeMO port) | 1-2 days on essential loads | Nissan LEAF to Home power station |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5/6 | Up to 3.6 kW (V2L adapter) | ~24 hours on essential loads | Official V2L Adapter & 120V outlet |
| Kia EV6 | Up to 3.6 kW (V2L adapter) | ~24 hours on essential loads | Official V2L Adapter & 120V outlet |
| Genesis GV60 | Up to 3.6 kW (V2L adapter) | ~24 hours on essential loads | Official V2L Adapter & 120V outlet |
It's important to note that while V2L adapters for Hyundais and Kias are versatile for powering devices directly, powering an entire home requires a more complex and permanent installation. Always consult with a qualified electrician to assess your home's readiness and the total cost of installation.
