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Kia is upgrading its electric vehicle (EV) offerings with innovative smart charging and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) services, part of Hyundai Motor Group’s push to expand Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology worldwide. In the Netherlands, the Kia Smart Charge app helps EV owners save money by charging during off-peak hours.
Meanwhile, in select U.S. states, Kia EV9 owners can use V2H to power their homes during outages. These advancements, launching in February 2025, aim to make EVs more than just transportation, enhancing energy efficiency and cost savings for users.
Key Highlights
- Smart Charging in the Netherlands: Available now, this service cuts electricity costs by charging during low-rate periods.
- V2H in the U.S.: Starting February 28, 2025, Kia EV9 owners in seven states, including California, can use their vehicle as a backup power source.
- Future Expansion: Hyundai Motor Group plans to roll out Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) services later this year, allowing energy trading with the grid.
Kia’s latest enhancements position its EVs as energy management tools, not just vehicles. In the Netherlands, the Smart Charge app syncs with home chargers and energy providers to optimize charging times, reducing bills. Available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, it’s an easy add-on for Kia EV owners. Looking ahead, the upcoming V2G service will let users sell excess energy back to the grid, further boosting savings.
In the U.S., the V2H service kicks off on February 28, 2025, targeting Kia EV9 owners in states like California. This feature lets the vehicle store power when rates are low and supply it to homes during peak times or outages. It’s a practical solution for energy resilience, especially in areas prone to blackouts. Kia is working with California utilities to expand this program, ensuring broader access soon.
Hyundai Motor Group, Kia’s parent company, is driving this global effort to redefine EVs. The Group plans a phased rollout, with Hyundai Motor Company set to launch similar services later in 2025. Kia’s focus on key markets and collaboration with regulators underscores its commitment to scalable, sustainable energy solutions.
Heung Soo Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Strategy Office at Hyundai Motor Group, emphasized the vision: “As part of Hyundai Motor Group’s global Vehicle-to-Everything initiative, Kia’s new energy services are designed to offer EV owners not only enhanced convenience but also significant benefits in terms of cost savings and energy management. By expanding the role of our EVs beyond just transportation, we are solidifying Kia’s leadership position in the rapidly evolving EV-energy sector. Our commitment to integrating innovative solutions such as V2H and V2G ensures that Kia is at the forefront of this transition, creating a more sustainable and connected future for our customers.”
This move strengthens Kia’s role in the EV market, blending mobility with energy innovation. As these services grow, EV owners can expect more control over their energy use, lower costs, and a reliable backup during emergencies—all while supporting a greener future.
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