GM Expands Bidirectional EV Charging with Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid Capabilities

General Motors has outlined the bidirectional charging capabilities available in selected electric vehicles, including the Chevrolet Equinox EV, GMC Sierra EV, and Cadillac Lyriq. The technology supports both Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functionality, allowing compatible EVs to serve as energy resources beyond transportation. These capabilities are designed to help vehicle owners improve energy resilience, support household electricity needs, and participate in grid-support programs when connected through approved systems and infrastructure.

Vehicle-to-Home Enables Backup Power for Households

Vehicle-to-Home technology allows a compatible electric vehicle to function as a backup power source during outages caused by severe weather or other disruptions. When connected to a properly equipped home, electricity stored in the vehicle battery can be supplied to household appliances and essential systems. This capability can help homeowners maintain access to power during emergencies without relying solely on conventional backup generators.

To activate this functionality, a compatible EV must be paired with a GM Energy Vehicle-to-Home system. The setup includes a bidirectional charger and an enablement kit that manages the flow of electricity between the vehicle and the home. The system is designed to power household devices while preventing electricity from being sent back onto utility lines, helping protect crews performing maintenance or restoration work.

Vehicle-to-Grid Supports Utility Networks

Vehicle-to-Grid technology extends the value of electric vehicles by connecting them with participating utility programs. Through this capability, compatible EVs can transfer stored electricity back to the local grid during normal operations when demand for power increases. Depending on program structures and regional availability, vehicle owners may benefit from incentives or reduced electricity costs by contributing energy during peak demand periods.

V2G systems also create opportunities for large numbers of parked and connected EVs to collectively support grid stability. During events such as heat waves or winter storms, thousands of vehicles can provide small amounts of electricity to help meet temporary demand spikes. In several regions, utility providers already offer compensation programs that reward customers for supplying energy from eligible electric vehicles when grid requirements are elevated.

GM EV Models Supporting Bidirectional Charging

The following GM electric vehicles were highlighted as supporting bidirectional charging capabilities:

• Chevrolet Equinox EV
• GMC Sierra EV
• Cadillac Lyriq

Highlighted GM EVs with Bidirectional Energy Functions

By integrating Vehicle-to-Home and Vehicle-to-Grid technologies into its electric vehicle portfolio, General Motors is expanding the role of EVs within the broader energy ecosystem. These capabilities allow electric vehicles to provide backup power for homes and contribute electricity to utility networks, creating additional value for owners while supporting energy resilience and grid management initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology in GM electric vehicles?
Vehicle-to-Home technology allows a compatible GM electric vehicle to supply stored battery power to a properly equipped home during an outage. When paired with a GM Energy V2H system that includes a bidirectional charger and enablement equipment, electricity can be directed to household appliances and essential systems. The setup is designed to safely manage energy flow and prevent power from being transmitted back onto utility lines, helping maintain safety while providing backup electricity during disruptions.

How does Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) benefit EV owners and utilities?
Vehicle-to-Grid technology enables compatible electric vehicles to send stored energy back to the power grid through participating utility programs. During periods of high electricity demand, such as heat waves or severe weather events, connected vehicles can contribute power to support grid stability. Depending on local program availability, EV owners may receive financial incentives or electricity cost savings for participating, while utilities gain access to distributed energy resources that can help balance demand across the network.