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Mercedes-Benz Jumps Into Home Energy Storage Space, Should GM?

It’s clear automakers are expanding outside the realm of traditional business norms. Ride sharing, subscription services, car connectivity and more have truly begun to redefine the automotive industry.

Tesla, for example, has taken to the home energy storage industry with battery packs designed to provide complete power for a house. Now, Mercedes-Benz has followed a similar lead after it announced it is partnering with Vivint Solar to bring its home energy storage solution to the U.S.

Vivint Solar provides the solar power system to capture energy during the day and Mercedes-Benz provides the battery system to utilize the captured energy. In turn, the system can act as a backup generator or power a home during peak electricity use to conserve energy and help homeowners save money.

So, why not General Motors?

The automaker has plenty of experience with electric propulsion methods and has tied the knot with LG Chem for battery technology. The automaker already also uses decommissioned Volt batteries to power various offices and other small operations, too. Home energy storage seems like a natural extension, especially amid mounting pressure from GM shareholders.

Chevrolet Volt Battery Reuse

GM doesn’t seem afraid to tackle areas outside the traditional industry either. Maven is a prime example, which is truly one of the most expansive car-sharing programs from an automaker to date—it’s not a pet project. GM’s drive to transform itself could very well include home batteries.

The home energy storage business is in its infancy, but we all know the success stories surrounding early adopters.

Former GM Authority staff writer.

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Comments

  1. Yes, GM should absolutely be in this game. This would be a good way to spread the development cost of batteries to improve profit margin on EV’s.

    GM could also put charge stations throughout the cities most used by their Maven and Lyft drivers!

    Reply
    1. Exactly, they have tremendous technology and engineering in the volt and bolt, a massive parts inventory to choose from, and many existing relationships with electrical suppliers. It’d also be good brand recognition, why not expand to gas or diesel home generating stations as well?

      Reply
      1. I’m wondering where/when or if a diesel Volt is in the works.

        Just think if they took the tech developed for the Cruze diesel and take it even farther, “Diesel Generator” for a car, would be an first!

        Reply
  2. Gm and ABB started doing this about six years ago with these volt batteries, home energy storage systems.

    Reply
  3. GM can do this in short order as they already have the technology down. But the problem us the technology is still not where it needs to be to where it will satisfy customers and be affordable yo the average consumer.

    So at this point odds are it is a break even deal at best. Once it starts to move to where it can make money GM can step in.

    Reply
  4. That’s what the fuel cell manufacturing plant is about.

    Reply

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