Energy software platform Kaluza has launched a new Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) bi-directional charging trial, which will see the firm team up with Volkswagen Group UK, Ovo Energy and Indra to learn more about V2X charging and the benefits it could offer EV drivers.
Called Inflexion, the charging trial will focus on the development of affordable and accessible V2X solutions for EV owners, while also bringing the technology to a greater commercial scale.
V2X technology allows drivers to power their homes with their electric car, while also enabling users to sell surplus energy back to the grid, helping to reduce energy costs.
Kaluza says its Inflexion V2X programme “marks the first real-world use of bi-directional charging” using Combined Charging System (CCS) technology.
Using vehicles supplied by Volkswagen, the UK-based firm hopes the trial will prove both the power of V2X technology, as well as ensuring the solution delivers for EV drivers’ needs and lifestyles.
Kaluza previously led a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) trial that enabled electric car owners to earn around £420 a year by selling their EV’s energy back to the grid.
According to Kaluza, if all vehicles in the UK today were electric and V2X enabled, they could displace 60% of all gas backup generation currently active.
The new trial will be funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and delivered by Innovate UK.
“Inflexion is an exciting step for the industry to engage and learn from real EV drivers and bring this game changing technology closer to true, commercial scale,” said Kaluza CEO, Scott Neuman.
“V2X will have a transformative effect on decarbonising our energy system but only if we make it accessible and affordable for all.”
Commenting on the new trial, group commercial services director for Volkswagen Group UK, Alistair Shields said: “At a time of increased focus on energy security, we are excited to be working with Kaluza and other market leaders on this trial programme to test the acceptance and benefits for both our customer and the overall UK energy system.”
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