Volvo’s cheapest EV can now power a campsite or coffee maker

Volvo has released a software update for its EX30 electric car that adds vehicle-to-load (V2L), a feature that lets the car's battery power outside devices. With an adapter plugged into the charge port, owners can run things like a laptop, coffee maker, or even a refrigerator during a power outage, or bring power along to a campsite. The system puts out up to 3 kW at 16 amps and automatically shuts off once the car's battery drops below 20%, so it won't leave you stranded without enough charge to drive.

This update will not reach EX30 owners in the US, Canada, Mexico, Korea, Taiwan, or Japan. It's rolling out in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, where it uses the CCS2 charging standard. The gap for US buyers isn't a huge surprise, since Volvo has already said it's discontinuing the EX30 in the US after the 2026 model year. If you want this kind of home backup or off-grid power capability from an EV, the upcoming 2027 Kia EV3 is set to offer standard V2L, starts around $30,000, and is rated for up to 321 miles of range.

The same update also brings a redesigned settings menu and, in some European markets, a "Plug & Charge" feature that lets 2026-model-year EX30s and newer charge at public stations without needing a card or app.