SEOUL (SOUTH KOREA) (ITALPRESS) – Kia is boosting the energy use and management capabilities of its electric vehicle (EV) range with the launch of smart charging and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) services in selected states in Europe and the US. This stage represents the first step in the development of Hyundai Motor Group’s global program in the direction of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) services. The introduction of Smart Charging in the Netherlands and V2H emergency backup in certain states in the U.S. starting in late February marks the beginning of a new phase. The launch of these services lays the groundwork for further integration of innovative features into Hyundai Motor Company’s electrified range, in accordance with the Group’s plan to get to the point where electric vehicles become true connected and energy-efficient hubs, going beyond the traditional concept of transportation.Kia’s Smart Charging service, available to Kia customers in the Netherlands, will help optimize charging costs by taking advantage of the variation in rates throughout the day. By charging at the most convenient times of day, EV users will have definite savings on energy costs. The Kia Smart Charge app, available as a free download from the Apple Store and Google Play Store, is compatible with any home charger. It synchronizes the vehicle’s data with that of the energy provider to ensure charging takes place at the most convenient time of day. Kia later this year will also expand the offering with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) service, which will allow users to return excess power to the grid.In the United States, Kia will introduce V2H functionality on Feb. 28 in seven states, including California. The service turns EV9 into a power source, capable of functioning as an emergency power source during any power grid outages, reducing disruption. It also allows EV9 to store energy when rates are low and use it later in the home when rates become high, contributing to effective optimization of household energy costs.Kia is committed to extending V2H to more states and more EV models, prioritizing key markets and proceeding closely with legislative bodies. Kia is working with major utilities in California to further extend its V2G program. These initiatives respond to the Group’s vision of transforming EVs into essential energy sources, reducing costs for users and improving their energy resilience. “As part of Hyundai Motor Group’s global Vehicle-to-Everything initiative, Kia’s new services are designed to offer EV owners not only greater convenience, but also significant benefits in ??terms of cost savings and greater efficiency in energy management. By expanding the functionality of our EVs beyond just transportation, we are solidifying Kia’s leadership position in the rapidly evolving EV industry. Our commitment to introducing innovative solutions such as V2H and V2G highlights how Kia is at the forefront of this transition, seriously committed to creating a more sustainable and connected future for our customers,” said Heung Soo Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Strategy Office at Hyundai Motor Group.
photo: press office Kia Italy
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