15:38 18-04-2026

Volkswagen launches Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology for electric vehicles

Volkswagen's V2G tech enables EVs to return electricity to the grid, reducing ownership costs with potential earnings up to €900 annually, launching in Germany in 2026.

Volkswagen has announced the launch of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which will enable electric vehicles not only to consume electricity but also to feed it back into the grid. The rollout is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026 in Germany, with potential annual earnings for owners reaching €700–900. For the EV market, this marks a key step toward reducing ownership costs.

The technology essentially turns an EV's battery into an energy storage unit. The vehicle can charge during periods of low tariffs or energy surplus and then return electricity to the grid during peak demand.

Volkswagen emphasizes that an electric vehicle can only fully realize its potential when it makes economic sense for the customer. With V2G, the company aims to deliver just that—significantly lower charging costs and, in the long run, nearly free charging.

For the system to work, an integrated solution is required: the vehicle itself, bidirectional charging, a smart meter, a special tariff, and a management app.

The technological foundation is the MEB platform, which underpins the ID family of models. Already, around 1 million cars in Europe are ready for bidirectional charging, and with the ID. Software 6 update, the feature will become available for more versions.

Elli, a Volkswagen subsidiary, will manage the system, linking the vehicle, infrastructure, and electricity market. The manufacturer claims that using V2G does not significantly impact battery lifespan, thanks to protective systems and charging control.

The main benefit is a reduction in ownership costs. An EV stops being just an expense and becomes an asset capable of generating income. This is particularly relevant amid growing interest in new 2025 models and the shift toward energy ecosystems.

Moreover, the technology supports the energy grid. In Europe, gigawatt-hours of renewable energy are lost annually, which could be stored using vehicle batteries. Estimates suggest this could save the energy system tens of billions of euros by 2040.

For Germany, the V2G launch will form part of its energy transition strategy, with plans to scale the technology to other European markets thereafter.