With bidirectional charging, an electric car does more than receive energy. When the vehicle, charger and electrical system are compatible, the battery can also supply power to a home, a building or the grid.
What bidirectional charging means
With conventional charging, energy flows in one direction: grid → wallbox → vehicle. A bidirectional system also enables the reverse path: vehicle → home, building or electricity grid.
A smart or solar-compatible wallbox is not automatically bidirectional. The vehicle, charger, software, meter, energy management system and, in some cases, the electricity tariff must all work together.
V2H, V2B and V2G
- V2H – Vehicle to Home: the car can supply energy to a private home.
- V2B – Vehicle to Building: one or more vehicles can support a residential or commercial building.
- V2G – Vehicle to Grid: available battery energy can be returned to the public grid in a controlled way.
In a suitable system, the driver sets a departure time and a minimum charge level. Only the energy available above that reserve is used.
Why Germany matters in 2026
In June 2026, Volkswagen and Elli presented an integrated Vehicle-to-Grid offer for the German market, combining compatible vehicles, the Elli BiDi Charger, an app and a dedicated electricity tariff.
The announced ecosystem covers selected MEB vehicles from Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and CUPRA, with Škoda being added progressively. Exact compatibility still depends on the model, battery, software version and manufacturer approval.
This is also a relevant signal outside Germany: new charging locations should be planned not only around today’s wallbox, but also around future devices that may be larger, heavier and technically more complex.
What changes in planning
A bidirectional charger can differ significantly from a conventional wallbox. Depending on the technology, it may need more space, power electronics, active cooling, service access and a dedicated energy management system.
- Check the dimensions and weight of the exact charger.
- Keep the manufacturer’s ventilation and maintenance clearances free.
- Plan the cable route, connector holder and access panels.
- Size the wall, base or freestanding structure for the real load.
- Keep the meter, protection devices and energy controls accessible.
Protect the charger without enclosing it
Direct sun, rain, dirt, ice, impacts and cables left on the ground remain practical issues. A protective structure must never obstruct ventilation openings, displays, connectors, release mechanisms or maintenance areas. It complements the installation but does not change the wallbox IP rating or certification.
Which VoltaCover solution should be considered?
Wall-mounted installations: Crystal Shell 360 combines an open front shield, manual cable management and a connector holder. Wallbox Cover Plus adds a rear technical compartment where dimensions and clearances allow it.
Freestanding installations: Crystal Shell Station 360 organises charger, cable and connector in one station. Stand provides more internal technical space, while Vela offers a slimmer architectural form with an upper shield.
Compatibility must always be checked for the exact wallbox model, especially for large, heavy or actively cooled bidirectional systems.
Request a preliminary compatibility check
For an initial assessment, send the wallbox brand and model, its external dimensions, a photo of the installation location and whether the planned installation is wall-mounted or freestanding. VoltaCover can then identify the solution to investigate and the measurements to verify before ordering.
Sources
Information updated on 25 September 2026.