ChargePoint, a leading electric vehicle (EV) charging company, has unveiled its next-generation Level 2 EV chargers, boasting faster charging speeds and bidirectional capabilities. The new chargers can charge EV batteries from zero to 100% in approximately four hours, a significant improvement over typical Level 2 chargers. Additionally, the bidirectional feature allows EV owners to use their vehicles as a power source for their homes or businesses, a technology often referred to as vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging.

The new Level 2 chargers are rated for 90 amps and can deliver 19.2kW of power, making them capable of charging EVs at speeds "up to double" that of typical AC Level 2 chargers. This upgrade is a "generational leap" in the technology that powers ChargePoint's chargers, according to the company. The chargers will be available in the US later this year, with prices starting below $1,000 and varying depending on the model.

Bidirectional charging is a significant development in the EV industry, as it enables EV owners to use their vehicles as a backup power source during blackouts or to feed energy back into the grid. Several automakers, including Honda and Acura, are already offering V2H charging equipment for their EV models. ChargePoint's new chargers will support both CCS and NACS ports, making them compatible with a wide range of EVs.

The new chargers also feature dynamic load balancing, which automatically accelerates charging speeds when power is not needed elsewhere in the residence. They will also integrate with smart home systems, such as solar charging, home batteries, and smart management systems. Furthermore, the hardware has been significantly upgraded, with series wiring capabilities that enable multiple EVs to charge simultaneously without requiring costly service upgrades.

As a dominant player in the EV charging market, ChargePoint's new Level 2 chargers are expected to have a significant impact on the industry. The company claims to possess 61% of the public Level 2 charging market, and its new architecture complies with applicable regulations, including the Measuring Instruments Directive (MID) and Eichrecht in Europe and Energy Star in the US.

The rollout of the new Level 2 chargers is scheduled to begin in Europe this summer, followed by North America at the end of the year. As the EV market continues to grow, ChargePoint's innovative chargers are poised to play a crucial role in supporting the increasing demand for fast and convenient charging solutions.

The implications of ChargePoint's new Level 2 chargers extend beyond the EV industry, as they have the potential to transform the way we think about energy storage and distribution. With the ability to feed energy back into the grid, EV owners can potentially reduce their energy costs and contribute to a more sustainable energy ecosystem. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of bidirectional charging in the future.