Nissan has agreed to invest in ChargeScape, a joint venture co-owned by BMW, Ford, and Honda, aimed at enhancing electric vehicle-grid integration. Following the completion of this transaction, Nissan will hold a 25% stake in ChargeScape and offer its services to EV drivers in the U.S. and Canada. Last month, the founding automakers launched ChargeScape, which uses software to wirelessly connect electric vehicles (EVs) and manage energy flow according to real-time grid conditions. This includes smart charging (V1G) that reduces demand during peak times and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities that allow energy to be sent back to the power grid when needed. ChargeScape simplifies electric vehicle-grid integration by providing a unified platform for power utilities, automakers, and customers.
ChargeScape enables financial benefits for EV drivers through managed charging and vehicle-to-grid export services. Drivers connected to ChargeScape’s platform can earn incentives for pausing charging during high-demand periods and will soon be able to sell energy stored in their vehicle batteries back to the grid. This process helps grid operators avoid relying on expensive and high-carbon “peaker plants” during peak demand.
Nissan’s involvement is significant, given its sale of over 650,000 LEAF models in the U.S.—one of the first EVs capable of exporting power back to the grid. The company is heavily investing in bidirectional charging (V2X) capabilities for its electric fleet globally, and ChargeScape is actively developing virtual power plants in California, Texas, and other regions.
“We are delighted to welcome Nissan to the ChargeScape joint venture,” said ChargeScape CEO Joseph Vellone. “Nissan’s decision to join us underscores their commitment to helping customers charge more affordably and sustainably and highlights ChargeScape’s key role in vehicle-grid integration.”
“ChargeScape enables a more convenient and effective connection between utilities and EV drivers, enhancing the ownership experience by providing incentives for participation in managed charging and vehicle-to-grid programs,” stated Kent O’Hara, president of Nissan’s 4R battery business. “Joining ChargeScape allows us to contribute to a nationwide reduction in CO2 emissions by enabling utilities to use EV battery energy storage to balance peak grid demands while optimizing renewable electricity use.
