2027 Toyota Highlander EV Boasts Bidirectional Charging, Outpacing Many Teslas

Daily Car

13/02/2026

Toyota is electrifying its popular Highlander SUV for the 2027 model year, introducing a fully electric version that promises up to 320 miles of range and the adoption of the NACS charging port. A standout feature for this new EV is its bidirectional charging capability, a technology that allows the vehicle's battery to power external devices or even provide backup power to a home, a feature not commonly found on many Tesla models.

Key Takeaways

The 2027 Toyota Highlander will be fully electric.
It will offer up to 320 miles of range.
Features bidirectional charging (V2L/V2H) capability.
Adopts the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.

A New Era for Toyota EVs

Toyota's foray into the all-electric vehicle market has been cautious, with a strong emphasis on hybrids. However, the landscape is shifting. Following updates to the bZ4X and the upcoming C-HR and BZ Woodland models, the 2027 Highlander marks a significant step forward. This three-row electric SUV will not only offer substantial range but also introduce bidirectional charging, positioning Toyota ahead of the curve in offering this versatile feature.

Bidirectional Charging: Power On the Go

Bidirectional charging, also known as vehicle-to-load (V2L) or vehicle-to-home (V2H), allows the Highlander's large battery pack to serve as a mobile power source. Owners can use this capability to power appliances during camping trips, run entertainment systems while tailgating, or keep essential devices running during power outages. This feature leverages the substantial battery capacity of EVs for practical, everyday benefits.

Battery Options and Range

The 2027 Highlander EV will be available with two battery options: a smaller 77-kilowatt-hour pack and a larger 95.8 kWh battery. The larger pack is expected to deliver an impressive 320 miles of range for all-wheel-drive models. This positions the Highlander competitively within the growing segment of EVs offering V2L functionality, joining models like the Hyundai Ioniq 9, Kia EV6, and Chevrolet Silverado EV.

A Feature Gaining Traction

While bidirectional charging is becoming more prevalent, it's not yet standard across all EV models. Tesla's Cybertruck was the first from the brand to offer both V2L and V2H, while models like the Model 3, and older S and X, lack this capability. Most Model Y trims also do not include it. Toyota's inclusion of this feature in the Highlander demonstrates a commitment to providing advanced and practical EV technology. The V2H capability, in particular, has proven invaluable during recent extreme weather events across the United States, highlighting its potential as a home energy solution.

The 2027 Toyota Highlander is slated for release at the end of 2026. Further details regarding specific bidirectional charging accessories and the full extent of its V2L capabilities are expected closer to the launch date.

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