Toyota releases battery storage system for residential use

Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, Toyota Motor Corp. (Toyota), has released a battery storage system for residential use, O-Uchi Kyuden System.

The O Uchi Kyuden System uses electrified vehicle battery technology such as Toyota battery control to provide a rated capacity of 8.7kWh and rated output of 5.5. kWh. This, Toyota notes, not only ensures safety but also provides a supply of electricity to users' homes during normal times and also at the time of power outages caused by natural disasters.

Additionally, the new system encourages the use of solar power. By linking the solar PV system, the O Uchi Kyuden System can supply an appropriate amount of electricity based on customer needs throughout the day and night.

"Unique to Toyota, the system supports supplying power from electrified vehicles (HEV, PHEV, BEV, FCEV) at 100V AC and can use electricity stored in electrified vehicles as a backup power source during power outages, allowing users to live with peace of mind," Toyota said in an official statement.

The system, using IoT (a wireless LAN router connected to a hybrid power conditioner) allows users to view and set the storage capacity, operation mode, and other settings in real-time from a dedicated app on a smartphone or tablet. This feature is currently available only in Japanese on select iOS and Android devices.