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The downside of the trial was the need for a dedicated, expensive bi-directional charger, highlighting the need for the functionality to be integrated into the

The downside of the trial was the need for a dedicated, expensive bi-directional charger, highlighting the need for the functionality to be integrated into the car. I have been heavily involved in that project (writing firmware for the charger). I also have one on the side of my house connected to my car. I don't personally see any particular need for it to be integrated into the car. The main issue is cost, but that cost doesn't go away if it is in the car instead of on the wall. Either way, the hardware is there and the house wiring will have to support it. It is also important to keep in mind that the charger is essentially a prototype. The main cost is the bidirectional power module. Future versions will likely be considerably cheaper as manufacturing matures and economies of scale kick in. EDIT: From a regulatory point of view, it is probably easier to have the technology in the charger as the grid operators (Distribution Network Operator - DNO) do not like having unknown generators being connected to their grid. You have to notify the DNO (and in some circumstances, get advanced permission) when you install solar or indeed, a V2G.

jacquesm 5y ago
And if it's on the wall it will not be automatically scrapped when the car is scrapped as well as allowing you to easily switch vehicles and maintain that functionality.
kieranmaine 5y ago
That's interesting about the DNO. When notifying the DNO about the V2G installations does the property then become a generator? Re. economies of scale I'd argue that an auto OEM can achieve better economies than a charger manufacturer
- goodcanadian 5y ago
  Well, the V2G is considered to be like a generator. You are generally allowed to install one device of up to 3.68kW on a install and notify basis. This is the same rules that would apply for a solar installation or whatever. If you want more than one device or you want to exceed 3.68kW, you will need permission. There are a whole series of increasingly complex rules after that.

jacquesm 5y ago

And if it's on the wall it will not be automatically scrapped when the car is scrapped as well as allowing you to easily switch vehicles and maintain that functionality.

kieranmaine 5y ago

That's interesting about the DNO. When notifying the DNO about the V2G installations does the property then become a generator? Re. economies of scale I'd argue that an auto OEM can achieve better economies than a charger manufacturer

goodcanadian 5y ago
Well, the V2G is considered to be like a generator. You are generally allowed to install one device of up to 3.68kW on a install and notify basis. This is the same rules that would apply for a solar installation or whatever. If you want more than one device or you want to exceed 3.68kW, you will need permission. There are a whole series of increasingly complex rules after that.