Electric vehicle (EV) owners already enjoy the convenience of charging their cars overnight. Now, with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, they can potentially earn money while they sleep. Nissan is the latest automaker to embrace this innovative approach by joining ChargeScape, a V2G venture backed by BMW, Ford, and Honda.
ChargeScape’s software wirelessly connects EVs to power grids and utility companies. This connection allows EV drivers to receive financial incentives for temporarily pausing charging during peak demand periods. In the future, ChargeScape plans to enable drivers to sell the energy stored in their EV batteries back to the grid.
While a 2021 University of Rochester study estimated annual savings of up to $150 for EV owners using V2G, recent advancements have shown even greater potential. Fermata Energy, a V2G company, reported a customer saving $187.50 in just 15 minutes by using a bi-directional charger with a Nissan LEAF to offset peak demand charges.
Nissan plans to roll out ChargeScape’s technology to its EV drivers throughout the U.S. and Canada. This move is particularly significant given the 650,000 Nissan LEAFs sold in the U.S., a model known for its capability to export power back to the grid.
Launched in September, ChargeScape is equally owned by BMW, Ford, Honda, and now Nissan. The venture anticipates other automakers joining the alliance in the near future. This expectation is fueled by recent announcements like GM’s plan to integrate V2G technology as standard in all its 2026 models.
The increasing popularity of EVs and the rapid expansion of charging infrastructure present both opportunities and challenges for the electric grid. As more EVs hit the road, the demand for electricity rises. Simultaneously, automakers are incorporating advanced driver-assistance systems and other connected features, further increasing the complexity of the automotive landscape.
ChargeScape enters a competitive V2G market where companies like ChargePoint, Electrify America, Fermata Energy, and BP Pulse are already established players. However, Tesla’s current focus on its Powerwall home battery system, rather than V2G technology for its vehicles, presents a window of opportunity for ChargeScape. While CEO Elon Musk has hinted at a potential 2025 introduction of V2G for Tesla vehicles, the field remains open for competitors like ChargeScape to gain a foothold.
