Renault 5 Will Launch with Full V2G Service
Renault sustainable mobility, software and data handling sub-brand, Mobilize, will launch its vehicle-to-grid (V2G) service to correspond with the debut of the new Renault 5.
The new compact BEV will be Renault’s first model with an onboard bi-directional charger to allow excess battery power to be returned to the grid when no needed. The service offers Renault 5 owners the ability to save on their home charging, reduce their overall electricity bill by feeding power from the vehicle back into their home and selling power back to the grid, opt for carbon-neutral electricity and, therefore, play a role in the energy transition.
The Mobilize V2G service makes it possible to put charging on hold during peak hours and to inject energy back into the home, especially during high electricity tariff hours, and into the grid when demand is high.
The Mobilize V2G service builds off four complementary components:
- Bi-directional on-board charger incorporating V2G technology, the Mobilize Powerbox, a bi-directional terminal designed in collaboration with teams from the Software République;
- Mobilize electricity contract, provided by our technology partner The Mobility House, which guarantees carbon-neutral electricity and serves to monetize energy injected back into the grid through automated bidirectional charging management;
- Smartphone app used to program bi-directional charging by setting the time when the vehicle is going to be used next and the desired battery level.
In addition to reinjecting electricity into the power grid, the bi-directional charger can also be used to power domestic appliances. Thanks to a Renault-designed adapter connected to the vehicle’s charging socket, the future electric Renault 5 can provide the same energy output as a 220-volt power outlet.
Corinne Frasson, director of energy services at Mobilize, said: “Thanks to Mobilize V2G, cars become an energy reserve. All drivers have to do is regularly connect their vehicle to the Powerbox to optimize their electricity bill and cut carbon from their mobility. On average, the cost of charging is cut by half.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
