Electric vehicles are becoming ever more versatile thanks to features like Vehicle-to-Load (V2L). This feature enables the use of the vehicle to power devices, a recent example being that of Indar Raju from Rajahmundry. Raju used the V2L feature to power 3 fans and 5 lights through the night, only losing 13% of charge from the vehicle battery from 56% to 43%.
During a power outage caused by a cyclone, Raju was able to maintain some form of comfort in his home. His EV was used to power some devices during the blackout. Three fans and five lights were powered for ~13 hours through the night. However, only 13% of charge was lost meaning the EV battery had 43% charge left. This could be incredibly helpful to those experiencing long periods of power outages. Especially during hot and humid weather. Being able to power fans and lights through the EV battery can be another convenient feature.
Although it was only 13% of charge used, this demonstrates how efficient this can be. However, this will depend on the power of the devices, how long they are used for and how efficient the vehicles V2L is.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) enables a compatible EV to power devices. Depending on its specifications, it can power laptops, lights, fans, camping gear and other electrical devices. Compared to a portable power station, an EV can have a large battery. This means it can be used to power multiple devices for long periods of time. However, it will depend on how much power can be delivered based on the V2L technology installed.
Vehicle-to-load can be a very useful feature during power cuts, outside and when there is no access to regular power. It gives EV owners another use for their vehicle, enabling them to use their battery to power devices. It is important to note that V2L is not the same as V2H. V2L usually powers devices connected to it. Whereas V2H can be used to power the entire homes electrical system.
This demonstrates one of the often forgotten benefits of electric mobility. An EV battery can be used as a temporary power source. Although this particular scenario only lost 13% of charge, it shows how V2L can be used to support households during short power outages. It also means there is still energy left in the vehicle to continue using it, however the range will depend on the size and efficiency of the battery.
As EVs become more popular in India, this feature can become very useful for those looking for a versatile vehicle. This incident shows how an EV can be used for much more than just driving. If you have a compatible vehicle then it can help keep the essential appliances running during a sudden power outage.