Wallbox Quasar 2: Pioneering V2H Technology with Kia EV9s

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.