Electric Cars

The inaugural residential installations of Wallbox's Quasar 2 bidirectional charger in the United States represent a pivotal moment in vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology. This development allows Kia EV9 electric vehicles to serve as dynamic energy sources for homes, marking a significant stride towards energy independence and grid resilience.

Pioneering Vehicle-to-Home Power: Wallbox Quasar 2 and Kia EV9 Integration

In an groundbreaking collaboration between Wallbox, Kia America, and the University of California, Irvine (UCI), the first six Quasar 2 bidirectional charging units have been successfully deployed in residential settings in Menifee, California. This pilot program, initiated on October 14, 2025, showcases an innovative application of electric vehicle technology, transforming compatible EVs into powerful home energy hubs. The Quasar 2 system facilitates not only the charging of electric vehicles but also the essential function of returning electricity to the home grid. This capability empowers homeowners to significantly reduce their electricity expenses by utilizing stored energy from their car batteries during peak utility rate periods. Furthermore, it provides a crucial backup power source, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply during unforeseen outages. Douglas Alfaro, Wallbox's chief business development officer, emphasized the broader implications of this advancement, stating that it offers a glimpse into a future where every EV is an integral energy asset, granting homeowners greater control over their energy consumption and fostering a more sustainable and resilient lifestyle. The initial installations are part of a visionary, all-electric neighborhood project, meticulously designed to explore the synergistic relationship between clean energy technologies and residential energy management. Kia America's director of connected car and mobility, Sujith Somasekharan, highlighted that this V2H functionality will soon be a standard feature within the Kia Connect suite for eligible EV9 models. This project underscores the multifaceted value of EVs, extending beyond mere transportation to encompass significant environmental and economic benefits for families. Professor Scott Samuelsen, spearheading the project at UCI's Advanced Power and Energy Program, stressed the critical importance of real-world deployment for gathering essential data and insights into technical and customer adaptation. These insights are vital for the widespread scaling of V2H technology across the national grid. With these foundational installations now operational, Wallbox is poised for the broader commercial release of the Quasar 2 across the United States.

This innovative deployment of V2H technology heralds a transformative era for energy management, challenging traditional notions of vehicle utility. It encourages a paradigm shift where electric vehicles are not merely modes of transport but active participants in creating a resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem. The ability to power homes from EVs could revolutionize how we perceive and manage energy, fostering greater independence and environmental stewardship.

Can-Am has officially introduced the Outlander Electric, a significant addition to its electric vehicle lineup, following the successful launch of its electric motorcycle. This new electric all-terrain vehicle (ATV) marks a pivotal moment for the brand, showcasing its commitment to electrifying various segments of its product range. The Outlander Electric is specifically engineered for demanding tasks, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and quiet operation for utility-focused users.

Initial experiences with the Outlander Electric reveal a highly capable machine that redefines expectations for ATVs. Its robust performance characteristics, coupled with the inherent advantages of electric propulsion, position it as a strong contender in the market. The vehicle's design and features cater to a niche yet essential user base, emphasizing practical applications over purely recreational ones. This strategic focus highlights Can-Am's understanding of diverse user needs and the potential for electric vehicles to meet those demands effectively.

The Can-Am Outlander Electric: Power and Practicality

The Can-Am Outlander Electric redefines the utility ATV segment with its impressive specifications and purpose-driven design. Equipped with an electric motor delivering 47 horsepower and 53 lb-ft of torque, it offers instantaneous, silent power, a significant advantage in environments where noise reduction is crucial. Its remarkable towing capacity of 1,830 lbs surpasses many gasoline-powered counterparts, underscoring its readiness for heavy-duty tasks. The ATV is powered by an 8.9 kWh battery, providing a practical range of up to 50 miles (80 km), which is more than sufficient for a full day's work on a farm, for hunters needing stealth, or for park rangers maintaining natural habitats. Charging is convenient, with Level 2 charging capable of replenishing the battery from 20% to 80% in just 50 minutes, and overnight charging possible via a standard 120-volt outlet. Priced at US $12,999, the Outlander Electric is now available, representing a compelling choice for those seeking an efficient, powerful, and environmentally conscious off-road workhorse.

Designed for professional and utilitarian use, the Outlander Electric boasts a suite of features tailored to enhance functionality and user experience. Riders can select from three distinct modes—Normal, Sport, and Work—to optimize power delivery for specific tasks, ensuring versatility across various operating conditions. The ATV includes a 5-inch color display for easy monitoring of vital information, XPS Recon Force tires for superior traction, and a full skid plate for comprehensive underbody protection. The focus on utility is evident in its ability to operate quietly, a key benefit for sensitive environments or tasks requiring minimal disturbance. This silent operation is a game-changer for working around livestock, approaching wildlife without startling it, or simply enjoying the outdoors without the intrusive sound of a traditional engine. The combination of robust power, substantial towing capability, efficient charging, and specialized features positions the Can-Am Outlander Electric as a leading solution for modern utility and outdoor work.

First Impressions and Market Impact of the Electric ATV

Experiencing the Can-Am Outlander Electric firsthand highlights the profound benefits of electric propulsion in an ATV. The immediate and consistent torque delivery makes light work of challenging tasks, such as towing heavy loads, often to the point where one might forget the load is even present. The near-silent operation is a revolutionary aspect, transforming the interaction with nature and making it an ideal choice for activities that demand discretion. This absence of engine noise is a significant leap forward, offering an immersive outdoor experience free from the disruptions of a combustion engine. Can-Am's meticulous attention to detail in noise reduction ensures that only the subtle sounds of the electric motor at higher speeds, and the tires interacting with the terrain, are noticeable, providing a refined and polished driving experience that surpasses expectations for an electric vehicle.

The introduction of the Can-Am Outlander Electric marks a crucial turning point for the off-road vehicle industry, demonstrating that a major player is embracing electric technology for utilitarian purposes. While the 50-mile range might be a consideration for some recreational riders, it is more than adequate for its intended audience of farmers, ranchers, and small landowners who prioritize reliability and efficiency for daily operations. The vehicle's high towing capacity and quiet performance are particularly advantageous, making it an indispensable tool for work-related applications. Although the starting price of $17,799 positions it as a premium option, it aligns with high-end gasoline-powered utility ATVs. When factoring in the reduced maintenance requirements—eliminating oil changes, filters, and spark plugs—and the lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline, the total cost of ownership becomes highly competitive, offering long-term economic benefits alongside its environmental advantages.