Summary
- Allows long-range EV9 to provide up to 100 kwh for days of home backup
- Only offered in limited states now with nationwide rollout to come
- Charger and hardware bundle priced at $6,440 and limited quantities available for pre-order
- Charger utilizes a CCS interface to enable bidirectional charging with EV9
- Home backup power, off-peak charging, and grid power functions depend on local utilities
Article
Kia has announced pre-orders for the Wallbox Quasar 2 home charger, which will enable bidirectional charging for the EV9 electric SUV. This charger will be the first to unlock the bidirectional charging capability of the EV9, allowing for home backup and vehicle-to-grid functionality. To utilize this feature, owners will need the 12-kw Quasar 2 charger and a power recovery unit grid disconnect switch, which are bundled together for $6,440. Pre-orders are currently limited to residents of select states, with a nationwide rollout planned in the future.
The Wallbox Quasar 2 charger features a CCS interface that enables bidirectional charging capabilities built into the EV9’s E-GMP platform. This allows owners to access a Power Recovery Mode for home backup power, drawing up to 100 kwh of energy from the EV9’s battery pack. The Quasar 2 can also be connected to a home’s electric panel to supplement electricity usage and charge the vehicle during off-peak times, in addition to feeding power back into the grid. However, the ability to supply energy back to the grid is dependent on local utilities.
The complete kit for the Wallbox Quasar 2 charger and power recovery unit is priced at $6,440, comparable to the home backup power system available for the Ford F-150 Lightning. General Motors also offers complete home energy kits starting at $12,700, including external battery packs, chargers, and hardware for home backup power. Another solution for supplying energy back to the grid is Fermata’s FE-20 system, designed for the Nissan Leaf. These options provide a range of choices for EV owners looking to utilize bidirectional charging capabilities.
The Quasar 2 charger allows EV9 owners to tap into a significant amount of energy from the vehicle’s battery pack, providing enough power to sustain a typical American home for up to four days. This extended range of up to 100 kwh sets it apart from other home backup power solutions, offering a reliable source of electricity during outages or emergencies. The nationwide rollout of the charger and power recovery unit will enable more EV owners to access this advanced bidirectional charging technology.
Kia’s announcement of pre-orders for the Wallbox Quasar 2 charger signals a significant step forward in the availability of bidirectional charging for electric vehicles. By offering home backup and vehicle-to-grid functionality, this charger provides flexibility and convenience for EV owners. The inclusion of a CCS interface and advanced Power Recovery Mode further enhance the capabilities of the EV9 electric SUV. As Kia continues to expand the availability of the charger across the country, more consumers will have the opportunity to experience the benefits of bidirectional charging technology.
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