Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
BMW Group and E.ON have announced the launch of Germany’s first commercial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) solution for private customers. This innovative offering, developed through their long-standing strategic partnership, allows electric vehicles to become active participants in the energy market. By enabling bidirectional charging, electric cars can not only draw power from the grid but also feed energy back into it, creating a flexible energy storage system that supports the broader energy transition.
Key Highlights
- Germany’s first commercial Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) solution for private customers.
- Enables bidirectional charging, allowing electric vehicles to supply energy back to the grid.
- Customers can earn an annual bonus of up to €720, potentially covering charging costs for up to 14,000 kilometers per year.
- The initial rollout features the BMW iX3 model.
- The technology supports the integration of renewable energies and stabilizes the power grid.
How Vehicle-to-Grid Technology Works
The new V2G solution empowers customers to utilize bidirectional charging capabilities. The high-voltage battery of a compatible electric vehicle, such as the BMW iX3, can supply energy back to the grid through the BMW Wallbox Professional. This process is managed by intelligent software jointly developed by BMW Group and E.ON, which is paired with a specialized V2G electricity tariff that facilitates the two-way flow of energy.
This service is designed to be both user-friendly and financially rewarding. By making their vehicle’s battery available for smart charging and discharging, customers can earn a significant annual bonus of up to €720. This financial incentive can effectively provide them with free charging for up to 14,000 kilometers of driving per year, all while contributing to a more stable and sustainable energy system.
“Together with BMW, E.ON is bringing Vehicle-to-Grid directly to the people,” said Marc Spieker, Member of the Board of Management of E.ON SE. “We combine charging convenience with tangible economic benefits. And, as a bonus, every connected vehicle can help lower the overall costs of the energy system—for the benefit of all.”
Dr. Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, added, “Vehicle-to-Grid reduces the mobility costs of the customer through new revenue opportunities – while driving the future of electric mobility.”
Driving Flexibility in the Energy System
This new V2G offering represents a significant milestone in linking the mobility and electricity sectors. The vehicle transforms into a vital component of a virtual energy storage system, which enhances the integration of renewable energies and supports grid stability.
The benefits are clear and customer-focused. The system is simple, fair, and transparent, with customers earning credit for every hour their vehicle is connected. There are no minimum connection times, and the energy fed back into the grid is fairly compensated. Customers retain full control, setting their charging goals to ensure their mobility is never compromised. Furthermore, intelligent functions protect the battery’s longevity by maintaining it at an optimal level. By participating, drivers actively support the energy transformation, promote the use of renewable energy, and help reduce the long-term costs of the energy system.
Market Launch and Strategic Development
The bidirectional charging technology will first be available with the BMW iX3. BMW Group plans to gradually introduce this feature across additional model ranges, which will help scale V2G technology and extend its benefits to more customers.
Looking ahead, the long-term vision is to integrate this V2G product into a comprehensive energy platform. This platform will intelligently connect charging infrastructure with photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and smart home systems. The strategic partnership between BMW and E.ON establishes the foundation for this open, interoperable, and customer-centric energy ecosystem.
Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
