VW ID.4 bidirectional charging, Plug & Charge coming later this year in OTA software update

In a comprehensive AMA (ask me anything) on Reddit this week, VW CEO Herbert Diess had some good news for existing and future ID.4 owners.

According to the CEO, the German automaker will deploy an over-the-air (OTA) software update later this year that will turn on bidirectional charging capabilities in the electric SUV.

VW will add the capability to all ID.4 with a 77kWh battery.

As noted by Diess, this will allow owners to use their car as a backup power source for their homes in the event of a power outage, but unfortunately not charge another EV (yet).

“Bidirectional charging will be available this year for all ID. Models with 77 kWh battery, also via OTA update. In the beginning we will only offer Vehicle-to-home. This means you can run your dish washer with electricity from abroad ;)”

Bidirectional charging isn’t the only feature that will be added OTA.

Diess said Plug & Charge will also be turned through an update, but did not specify a timeline. It will likely be soon though as he said he had recently tested the feature and that it was “high time for introduction.”

Plug & Charge allows drivers to simply plug into a public EV charger and be automatically billed, and will also be on all 2023 model year ID.4.

Electrify Canada to offer free charging to VW ID.4 buyers

h/t: Inside EVs

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