UK debut of vehicle-to-grid package: BYD and Octopus introduce energy swapping for automobiles
The UK's energy landscape is set for a significant shift with the launch of the Power Pack Bundle, a new commercial vehicle-to-grid (V2G) package by Octopus Energy and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD. This innovative offering promises free or discounted home charging, substantial cost savings, and the ability for EVs to function as flexible energy assets that contribute to grid stability and environmental sustainability.
The comprehensive package includes a leased BYD Dolphin electric vehicle, the first in the UK with built-in V2G capability, a bi-directional Zaptec Pro charger, and access to Octopus Energy’s smart tariff. Drivers who plug in their vehicle at least 20 times per month for at least 12 hours each time, and charge according to their lease mileage agreement, can enjoy completely free home charging for every mile driven.
Typical EV drivers using this bundle could save up to £620 annually compared to conventional EV charging tariffs and nearly £1,000 per year compared to fueling a traditional petrol vehicle. The bundle is offered for under £300/month lease, making it competitively priced.
The bi-directional charging capability allows the vehicle to not only draw power from the grid during off-peak times when electricity is cheaper, but also feed power back during peak demand, helping to balance the grid. This stabilizes the electricity system and supports renewable energy use, reducing reliance on fossil fuel power generation.
By integrating V2G technology, the system helps reduce peak electricity demand and facilitates a more resilient, decarbonized energy system, making each EV a valuable asset in the UK's transition to green mobility.
The Power Pack Bundle will be available from this autumn and consists of a leased BYD Dolphin electric car, a V2G-enabled Zaptec Pro charger, and a smart tariff from Octopus Energy. Octopus and BYD have partnered with Motability to make the V2G technology available to disabled people across the UK.
Cars like the BYD Dolphin, VW ID.Buzz, ID.3, and Renault 5 are already equipped with V2G technology, indicating a growing market for V2G-ready EVs. This Power Pack Bundle launch is a step toward bringing V2G technology into everyday life as more V2G-ready EVs enter the market.
For those it does work for, substantial savings can be achieved with the Power Pack Bundle. However, it might not suit every lifestyle, especially for those who cannot regularly leave their car parked overnight. To make the most of the deal, drivers are required to plug in their cars 20 times a month for at least 12 hours at a time.
This two-way energy flow helps reduce reliance on fossil fuel power plants and supports the wider shift to cleaner energy. The Power Pack Bundle's savings potential is higher than with a standard energy tariff, potentially reaching £1,000 compared to running a petrol or diesel car. The Power Pack Bundle is priced at £299 per month and includes everything drivers need to get started with V2G at home.
- The Power Pack Bundle, a new commercial offering by Octopus Energy and electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, includes a leased electric vehicle with built-in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability, such as the BYD Dolphin, which is the first in the UK market with this feature.
- The Power Pack Bundle, available from this autumn, promises significant financial advantages for typical EV drivers, offering potential annual savings of up to £620 compared to conventional EV charging tariffs and nearly £1,000 compared to fueling a traditional petrol vehicle.
- By integrating V2G technology, the Power Pack Bundle not only supports a more resilient, decarbonized energy system but also helps reduce peak electricity demand, supported by renewable energy use and the growing market for V2G-ready EVs like the BYD Dolphin, VW ID.Buzz, ID.3, and Renault 5.
