Next gen LEAP (Lucid Electric Advanced Platform)-V2X
Lucid Group, Inc.
Recipient
Recipient Location
$0
Amount Spent
Active
Project Status
Project Update
The project kicked off in October 2025. The project team is focusing its efforts on hardware characterization, selection, and topology for 2026. The current phase of the project focuses on characterizing state-of-the-art semiconductor devices, namely, silicon carbide (SiC) devices, to implement the desired AC bidirectional onboard charger functionality in a single-stage power-electronic topology. Key initiatives include model development, lab testing, and foundational test builds. Additionally, the project team is working on recruiting technical advisory committee members for the project and estimating costs for the onboard charger design.
The Issue
The high cost and complexity of bidirectional onboard chargers limit V2X adoption, risking underutilization of EVs as distributed energy resources. California has over 2 million EVs today, with projections of 15 million by 2035, representing a major opportunity to leverage V2X to support grid reliability and reduce emissions. Onboard chargers today typically use a conventional two-stage topology with a DC-DC and DC-AC stage. Single-stage topologies rely on a single DC-AC stage, which can reduce the weight and cost of the system. Research is needed to develop and demonstrate a robust and cost-effective single-stage onboard charger for V2X use cases.
Project Innovation
The project introduces a cost-effective bidirectional onboard charging system that reduces cost, size, and complexity while improving efficiency and reliability. This project will advance V2X capabilities such as V2G, V2H, V2L, and V2V, enabling EVs to serve as versatile energy resources. Key technical innovations include gallium nitride (GaN)-based power electronics for high-frequency conversion and a vertically integrated design to minimize hardware footprint. The project team will also drive the standardization of interfaces and the integration of advanced control algorithms to maximize efficiency and lifespan. Finally, this technology will be integrated into Lucid’s next-generation vehicles, ensuring readiness for large-scale adoption and promoting energy equity.
Project Goals
Project Benefits
This project will deliver significant ratepayer benefits through improved reliability and lower costs. V2X-enabled EVs can power microgrids, ensuring resilience during outages, and respond to dynamic pricing for a more efficient grid. By reducing peak demand, bidirectional-capable EVs can help reduce dependence on costly peaker plants for grid reliability. Managed charging can lower infrastructure costs and defer upgrades, saving ratepayers money and helping to put downward pressure on rates. In addition, bidirectional charging allows EV owners to power their homes and reduce energy bills through off-peak charging and programs such as ELRP. V2X can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality and overall energy costs for Californians.
Affordability
Bidirectional EV charging reduces costs by reducing peak capacity needs, which defer expensive grid infrastructure upgrades and cut overall system costs. By enabling off‑peak charging, home backup power, and participation in demand response programs, EV owners and ratepayers benefit from lower energy bills and long-term economic savings.
Reliability
V2X-enabled EVs improve grid reliability by turning homes into resilient, self-sustaining microgrids that maintain power during outages and support the grid when connected.
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