What is V2L? Taking power from your electric car

Short answer: V2L (Vehicle to Load) means an electric car supplies power from its battery to external electrical devices. Through a V2L adapter plugged into the charging port, the car becomes a standard socket, so you can run a kettle, cooker, laptop, lights or power tools directly from it.

How does V2L work?

V2L-capable cars convert the battery's direct current to 230 V alternating current with a built-in inverter. When the V2L adapter is plugged into the car's Type 2 port, it signals that a load is connected and the car starts supplying the socket. Manufacturers use different signal values, so the V2L adapter is chosen by car brand.

How much power does it provide?

V2L power varies by car; on most models it is between 2.2 and 3.6 kW. The adapters supply up to 16 A. You can run several devices at once as long as their total stays within these limits. Most cars let you set a minimum battery level for V2L, at which the output switches off automatically.

Where is it used?

• Camping and caravanning: lights, fridge, electric cooker, coffee machine.
• Garden and holiday homes: power tools, pumps, lighting.
• Power cuts: fridge, router, phone and laptop charging.
• Outdoor events and building sites: temporary power.

V2L vs C2L

C2L (Charger to Load) takes power from a socketed AC charging station rather than the car; it doesn't depend on the car brand and doesn't need V2L. It is used for temporary power where a charging station is available.

Which cars have V2L?

Many cars have V2L, such as Hyundai and Kia models on the E-GMP platform and many MG and BYD models, but versions of the same model can differ. Check your owner's manual or the car's menu, and choose the adapter version for your brand.

• → V2L and C2L adapters
• → V2L and C2L adapter bags (accessories)