Amber Electric has broadened its automated smart charging service, Amber for EVs, to include all MG, XPeng, and Audi electric vehicles with built-in connectivity. The feature, which originally launched in late 2024 for Tesla owners, enables users to optimise charging based on real-time electricity prices. However, expansion of Amber’s vehicle-to-grid (V2G) trial remains limited, with only BYD vehicles participating so far.
Amber for EVs: Expanded Model Support
Amber Electric, a renewable energy services provider, has extended its Amber for EVs smart charging feature to support all MG, XPeng, and Audi models equipped with built-in connectivity. This marks a significant step beyond the initial rollout, which was exclusive to Tesla vehicles.
The Amber for EVs system allows users to specify when they need their car and how much charge is required. The app then automatically schedules charging sessions to coincide with the lowest wholesale electricity prices or to make use of rooftop solar generation.
How Amber for EVs Works
Amber customers pay wholesale electricity prices, which fluctuate every five minutes based on grid supply and demand. The Amber for EVs feature starts or stops charging to take advantage of the cheapest price windows, potentially reducing charging costs for EV owners.
Some advanced features, such as the ability to speed up or slow down charging, remain exclusive to Tesla vehicles. Amber has stated that it is working to bring this functionality to all supported EV models in the future.
Vehicle-to-Grid Trial: Limited Participation
Amber is running Australia’s largest vehicle-to-grid (V2G) trial, which allows EVs to feed electricity back into the grid. With support from ARENA, the trial has expanded from an initial target of 50 vehicles to up to 1,000.
Currently, only BYD vehicles are participating in the V2G trial. Amber has indicated a goal to involve at least four car makers, but there has been no announcement of additional manufacturers joining the program.
Competitor Comparison
Amber for EVs competes with other smart charging solutions and energy management platforms that aim to lower EV charging costs and integrate renewable energy. While some competitors offer similar scheduling features, Amber’s integration with wholesale electricity pricing and its ongoing V2G trial set it apart, especially in the Australian market.
Historical Context
Amber for EVs was launched in late 2024, initially targeting Tesla owners. The expansion to MG, XPeng, and Audi models in 2026 reflects growing demand for flexible, cost-effective EV charging solutions as more brands introduce connected electric vehicles.
Why this matters
The expansion of Amber for EVs to more brands increases access to smart charging for a wider range of EV owners, potentially lowering charging costs and supporting greater use of renewable energy. The ongoing V2G trial, if expanded to additional manufacturers, could further enhance grid stability and provide new value streams for EV owners.
What this means for buyers
Owners of MG, XPeng, and Audi EVs with built-in connectivity can now take advantage of Amber’s smart charging to reduce their electricity costs. However, those interested in participating in vehicle-to-grid programs should note that, for now, only BYD vehicles are eligible. Buyers may want to monitor future announcements for broader V2G compatibility.
Key Specs
- Supported Brands: Tesla, MG, XPeng, Audi (with built-in connectivity)
- Pricing Model: Wholesale electricity prices (updated every five minutes)
- V2G Trial Size: Up to 1,000 vehicles
- Current V2G Participants: BYD only
- Initial Launch Date: Late 2024
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, dubicars.com
