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Origin has teamed up with BYD and StarCharge to launch what it says is Australia’s first electric vehicle subscription bundled with a bi-directional charger and access to free home charging.
The initiative, set to begin in 2026, will see up to 50 customers take part in a limited trial that combines a BYD Atto 3 on subscription, a StarCharge V2G Halo bi-directional charger and access to an Origin smart tariff.
How Vehicle-To-Grid Works
Bi-directional charging allows drivers not only to charge their EV from the grid or home solar but also to send stored electricity back to the grid. The approach, known as Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), is seen as a way to lower charging costs for consumers while also easing pressure on the power network during peak times.
Chau Le, General Manager of E-mobility at Origin, said the trial was a step toward making V2G technology accessible.
“Vehicle-to-grid charging is a real game-changer that could turbocharge the EV market in Australia by allowing EV drivers to send electricity back to the grid from their car and get rewarded for that,” Le said.
“We are excited to be at the forefront of this Aussie first vehicle-to-grid bundle that makes it simple and easy for drivers to unlock benefits through access to free charging.”
Savings For Drivers
The trial is linked to Origin’s Virtual Power Plant, which automates charging and discharging to optimise energy use. Customers who plug in most days will receive free home charging for every kilometre driven during their subscription, up to an estimated 24,000km per year.
According to the Electric Vehicle Council, an Australian driving 12,000km annually would typically spend about $500 on electricity for an EV using a standard tariff, or $2,500 on petrol for a conventional car. Under Origin’s trial, the same driver could save between $500 and $2,500 each year.
Subscription Details
Expressions of interest are now open, with pricing set at under $800 a month after tax savings. Customers will receive a BYD Atto 3, valued at $39,900 before on-road costs, along with the StarCharge V2G Halo charger worth $6,000.
Origin says the trial will help test the impact of bi-directional charging on driver behaviour, vehicle performance and customer incentives.
The company already provides EVs to more than 1,600 drivers through subscription plans and offers smart charging under its EV Power Up plan.
Industry Perspectives
BYD Australia Chief Product Officer, Sajid Hasan, said the trial aligns with the manufacturer’s broader goals.
“BYD is excited to partner with Origin to pioneer this technology in Australia to redefine what Electric Vehicle ownership means.”
StarCharge APAC Chief Executive Kouki Xiang said the technology changes the role of EVs in the energy system.
“Vehicles are no longer just part of the transport network – with EVs and bi-directional charging technology, they’re becoming an active part of the energy network,” Xiang said.
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“Through V2G, every car becomes a mobile energy asset. We’re excited to be part of this collaboration with Origin and BYD to accelerate the adoption of V2G technology in Australia.”
More Information
Expressions of interest for the trial can be submitted through Origin’s website.
Further details on EV cost comparisons can be found via the Electric Vehicle Council.
Last Updated on September 23, 2025 by Nick Ross
