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Volteras wants to connect to more EVs than anyone else | TechCrunch

May 29, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Concerns about electric vehicles (EVs) straining the power grid are being countered by the potential for these vehicles to support the aging electrical system in the U.S. Volteras, a London-based startup, is developing software to enable EVs to function as virtual power plants by feeding stored electricity back into the grid. This could significantly increase the U.S.'s grid-scale energy storage capacity. Despite challenges such as the lack of vehicle-to-grid connections in many EVs and affordable bidirectional chargers, Volteras is making progress by integrating with automakers' APIs and offering connected-car features to other companies. The startup recently secured $11.1 million in Series A funding to advance its initiatives.

Volteras is collaborating with over 30 automakers, including major brands like Ford, BMW, and Tesla, aiming to cover 90% of the global automotive market by year-end. The company charges a monthly fee per connected car and shares revenue with automakers. Volteras is also targeting fleet managers, EV routing apps, and insurers interested in usage-based plans. The broader vision is for connected services to enhance the affordability and functionality of EVs, leveraging hidden data layers to offer discounts and new services.

Key takeaways:

  • Electric vehicles have the potential to significantly enhance the U.S. energy grid by acting as distributed energy storage systems.
  • Volteras, a London-based startup, is developing software to enable EVs to support the grid through virtual power plants, integrating with over 30 automakers.
  • Challenges include the current lack of vehicle-to-grid support in many EVs and the high cost of bidirectional chargers, though these are being addressed.
  • Connected car services offer financial opportunities for automakers and related companies, with Volteras exploring partnerships with fleet managers, EV routing apps, and insurers.
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