Volvo has an answer for loadshedding

“Load-shedding woes could be a thing of the past for South Africans in the future – if they drive a Volvo,” claims Volvo South Africa.

This is because the Swedish manufacturer will start selling fully-electric vehicles featuring “bi-directional charging” which can be used to power electric devices, as well as fully-fledged homes.

The first of these is the company’s new flagship SUV, the upcoming EX90, which will make its global debut on November 9.

What is bi-directional charging?

Bi-directional charging effectively allows one to use their electric vehicle (EV) as a backup power source whether out in the wild or stuck at home during a power outage.

The vehicle can use a variety of adaptor plugs to use unspent charge for powering things like appliances, power tools, and music systems during those dreaded hours of load-shedding.

If multiple EVs are connected at the same time, it can even create a “virtual powerplant,” said Volvo.

Additionally, should a friend or family member be running low on charge, the bi-directional ability will allow for charging up their battery-powered Volvos, and vice versa.

Depending on the laws in a specific region, bi-directional charging can even assist customers to support the national grid.

“This could include taking in more energy during times when there’s a surplus of renewable energy, or selling energy back during peak usage hours when there is more demand,” said Volvo.

“If most cars have this functionality in the future, then the grid could be balanced more often.”

Select markets only

Bi-directional charging will initially only be supported in select markets and the purchase of an EV with this ability includes an advanced wall box charger and home energy management system.

While the bi-directional charging feature is perfectly catered to our unique local conditions, South Africa is not part of the initially-confirmed markets in which it will be supported.

“When South Africa is one of those markets, this will be communicated to local customers,” said Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director of Volvo Car South Africa.