Kia and Hyundai Expand V2H Capability in the U.S.

Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 owners in the United States will soon gain the ability to use their electric vehicles as backup home power sources. Hyundai Motor Group confirmed that vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality is set to roll out in the near future, enabling these EVs to supply electricity directly to a home’s main electrical panel.

This enhancement builds on the existing vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature, already offered across the brand’s E-GMP-based models, which allows powering appliances and tools directly from the vehicle. V2H, however, takes this capability much further by integrating the car into the home energy system.

KIA EV6 using V2L adapter to charge a projector.


Existing EV9 V2H System Shows What to Expect

The Kia EV9 already features V2H support in the U.S., though only limited installations have been completed so far, mostly in California. To activate V2H, owners must install approved home hardware, and Wallbox’s Quasar 2 remains the only certified solution currently available.

Quasar 2 functions both as a home charger and as a bidirectional power interface. It supports up to 12.48 kW on AC and 12.8 kW on DC, enabling substantial power output during grid outages or home energy management cycles. A separate Power Recovery Unit (PRU) is needed to complete the system.

Because the EV6, Ioniq 9, and EV9 share the same 800-volt E-GMP platform, industry expectations strongly suggest that these models will use similar hardware requirements once V2H becomes officially available.


Hardware Details Still Pending for EV6 and Ioniq 9

While the automaker confirmed the expansion of V2H services, specific hardware requirements for the EV6 and Ioniq 9 have not yet been announced. What is known is that the Hyundai Ioniq 9 will be first to receive activation, followed by the Kia EV6. No timeline has been provided.

Given the shared electrical architecture, homeowners can likely expect a setup similar to the EV9’s, involving a bidirectional charger, gateway module, and home integration equipment.


Energy Savings Through Smart Charging Cycles

Beyond powering homes during outages, V2H systems offer a major financial benefit. Owners can charge their EVs when electricity prices are low—such as overnight—and draw from the car’s battery to supply their household during high-rate periods.

This strategy can significantly reduce energy bills, but it requires consistent scheduling and the vehicle remaining plugged in when energy shifting is desired. For users already accustomed to Level 2 home charging, the routine changes are minimal.


Could EVs Replace Home Battery Systems?

One of the most notable implications of V2H adoption is its potential to reduce the need for dedicated home energy storage products. Modern electric vehicles often feature battery capacities above 50 kWh, far surpassing most consumer home batteries.

For many households, a bidirectional EV may offer more usable energy capacity than expensive standalone systems, making the investment in a home battery less appealing.

However, seamless operation still depends on compatible hardware, installation cost, and utility regulations. As availability expands, EVs could become an increasingly practical alternative to traditional backup power solutions.

Hyundai Ioniq 9


What Comes Next

Hyundai Motor Group has not released a launch schedule or nationwide installation plan, but the company’s confirmation indicates that V2H for the EV6 and Ioniq 9 is moving forward. As infrastructure partnerships grow and hardware becomes more accessible, the capability is likely to see wider adoption in U.S. homes.

For drivers looking to combine transportation, energy savings, and home resilience, this rollout marks a significant step toward fully integrated EV-powered living.

Recommend Reading: Rivian R2: $45,000 Electric SUV That Can Power Your Home

FAQs

How many miles can a Kia EV6 go on a full charge?

The Kia EV6 can travel up to 310 miles on a full charge with the RWD Long Range model. Standard Range versions offer approximately 232–253 miles, depending on the trim.

Which Kia EV6 model has the longest range?

The Kia EV6 Wind RWD and GT-Line RWD models with the 77.4 kWh battery deliver the longest EPA-rated range of 310 miles.

Does all-wheel drive reduce the EV6's full-charge range?

Yes. AWD versions of the EV6 typically have a lower range. For example, the AWD Wind model offers about 282 miles, and the GT AWD model has a range of only 206 miles due to its performance tuning.

How far can the Kia EV6 go in real-world highway driving?

At steady highway speeds (70–75 mph), the EV6 may deliver around 240–270 miles depending on the trim, wind resistance, tire size, and elevation changes.

How does cold weather affect the range of the Kia EV6?

In winter conditions, the EV6 can lose 15%–30% of its range, especially if cabin heat is used. Using the heat pump and preconditioning can help mitigate this range loss.

How long does it take to fully charge a Kia EV6?

With a Level 2 home charger (240V), a full charge takes about 7–9 hours. Using an 800V DC fast charger, the EV6 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes under ideal conditions.

Is the Kia EV6 suitable for long-distance travel?

Yes. With up to 310 miles of range and ultra-fast charging support, the EV6 is one of the best electric vehicles for road trips in its class.

How does the EV6 compare to the Hyundai IONIQ 5 in terms of range?

The Kia EV6 and Hyundai IONIQ 5 share the same E-GMP platform and battery options. However, due to better aerodynamics, the EV6 often delivers slightly longer range by 5–10 miles.

Can driving habits impact the EV6's range per charge?

Absolutely. Speeding, rapid acceleration, aggressive braking, and frequent use of climate control can reduce your real-world driving range significantly.

Does the EV6’s battery degrade over time and affect range?

Like all EVs, the EV6’s battery will experience gradual degradation, typically less than 10% over 100,000 miles. Kia provides an 8-year / 100,000-mile battery warranty for peace of mind.

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