Bidirectional Charging – Game-Changing Technology on the Verge of Entering the Mass Market

The key to a future-proof energy world – Hall C6

At the recent Power2Drive Europe 2025, the Special Exhibit Bidirectional Charging proved to be an absolute crowd-puller. No wonder: the technology has long been considered one of the greatest levers for optimizing the power grid in a cost-effective manner while at the same time becoming even more independent from third countries through the use of more renewable energies.

This makes electric mobility attractive in three ways, in addition to the added comfort. The technical solutions are ready, but clear political framework conditions have only been implemented in a few countries and are often the missing next step.

The high visitor frequency and strong interest in the Special Exhibit clearly showed that demand has long been there. Not only fleet operators and industry professionals asked specific questions, but also many visitors from other areas of The smarter E who recognized the positive effect this could have on their field. Models, prices, and availability were the dominant topics—in some cases, specific purchasing advice was even provided directly on the exhibition floor.

The Bidirectional Zone 2026

We will continue our focus on the important topic of bidirectional charging in 2026, with a particular focus on e-fleets. You can look forward to exciting content, the latest study results, guided tours, and experts on site. Plan your visit to the Bidirectional Zone now and come see us in Hall C6 via the East Entrance.

Why bidirectional charging is indispensable

Bidirectional charging is the answer to some of the energy transition’s most pressing challenges. Here are just some of the key advantages:

Reduces electricity costs and eases the burden on the grid: Electric vehicles store electricity from renewable sources of energy and return it as required, which saves costs and stabilizes the grid.
Boosts the integration of renewable energies into the system: By acting as flexible storage devices, electric vehicles expand the use of renewable energy around the clock.
Saves costs for utility companies and consumers: According to a Transport & Environment study, bidirectional charging could result in savings across Europe of up to 22 billion euros a year for utilities and car drivers. More than 100 billion euros could be saved by 2040. These savings are due to the more efficient use of generation capacity, the reduction of curtailment and lower fuel consumption.
Accelerates the energy transition: Bidirectional charging optimizes the use of renewable energy, driving the energy transition forward at an even greater pace.

Cost advantages and suitability for daily use for consumers

Vehicle owners can also reap the enormous benefits. Smart charging and discharging technology not only reduces electricity costs, but can also even extend battery service life. Renault and The Mobility House are demonstrating how bidirectional charging works in practice. In France, owners of V2G-enabled vehicles can charge them for free if the vehicle battery is available to the energy system. From 2025, this model is set to be rolled out in Germany and the UK, too.

Further content

From technical articles and studies to webinars and podcasts – make sure you seize this opportunity to expand your knowledge and explore the versatile potential of bidirectional charging.

White Paper: Bidirectional Charging – the Future of Smart Energy Supply

Press release: Bidirectional Charging Saves Billions

Podcast: The Future of Energy Integration: Bidirectional Charging and Multi-Level Batteries

Podcast: Bidirectional Charging: Is Europe Ready for the Revolution?

Studies for the Special Exhibit Bidirectional Charging

Video electrive global: Mercedes-Benz and the future of bidirectional charging

Video electrive global: How V2G is changing the energy landscape