Volvo and Polestar Launch V2H Charging With New Ara Home Energy Station

Volvo and Polestar have introduced new bi-directional vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging options in the U.S., supported by Dcbel’s Ara Home Energy Station. The feature will launch first for Polestar 3 customers in California and for 2025 Volvo EX90 owners nationwide, allowing EVs to power homes during outages and optimize energy use. Both automakers are positioning V2H as a key step in their broader smart-energy strategies.

V2H capability rolls out with Ara Home Energy Station requirements

The initial rollout differs for each brand, with Polestar limiting access to California-based Polestar 3 owners equipped with the current 400-volt system. Volvo’s program is broader, giving all 2025 EX90 customers in the U.S. access to V2H functionality.

Regardless of brand, customers must purchase Dcbel’s Ara Home Energy Station to enable bi-directional charging. The system supports DC bi-directional energy flow, offers dual charging, and integrates a 15.2-kW hybrid solar inverter. Once installed, V2H allows owners to send energy from their vehicle back into their home, providing up to 2.5 days of blackout support without rationing. Smart-charging features also enable the system to shift energy based on household demand or utility rates, according to The Driven.

The Ara platform is the result of a growing collaboration between Volvo Cars and Dcbel, following the Volvo Cars Tech Fund’s investment in 2023 to accelerate Dcbel’s R&D and commercialization efforts.

Automakers push into smart home energy as incentives drive early adoption

Volvo executives said V2H capability enhances the value of the EX90 by integrating the SUV into the home-energy ecosystem. The company views V2H as a strategic step toward its long-term electrification and smart-home energy roadmap. EX90 buyers can now reserve the Ara system directly through Dcbel, while Polestar customers in California will receive additional program details through Polestar’s channels.

“We continue to enhance the benefits of ownership of our flagship EX90 by enabling it to send power back to the home through bi-directional charging. By working with Dcbel, we’re taking an important next step in our electrification and smart home energy strategy journey to offer smarter home energy options and added peace of mind,” Volvo Cars in the Americas head of product & technology consumer offer Jim Nichols said.

California customers may also benefit from significant incentives, up to $13,800, to help offset equipment costs, installation, interconnection, and participation in dynamic rate programs. The incentives also support ownership of bi-directional EVs, improving accessibility for early adopters. Polestar said the U.S. rollout marks the first step toward expanding bi-directional charging to more models and markets over time.

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