Software Update Restricts Third-Party Discharge
Tesla owners utilizing third-party hardware for vehicle-to-home power applications report that software from the 2026.38 branch, rolling out since October, disrupts discharge functionality. Users of equipment from brands such as Sigenergy, EleJoy, and Tlyard note that power delivery cuts off within minutes of initiation, accompanied by battery management alerts. While the release notes indicate minor fixes and security improvements, they make no explicit mention of changes to third-party discharging capabilities.
Contrasting Global Rollouts
The same 2026.38 software branch introduced Powershare with Powerwall home backup functionality for owners in the US and Canada. However, in Australia, where official vehicle-to-home retrofits are limited, existing owners have relied on third-party bidirectional DC chargers. With the new software update reportedly blocking this equipment, affected Australian owners are left without an official manufacturer solution or functional third-party alternatives unless they defer software updates.
Implications for Interoperability and Regulation
The situation highlights broader questions regarding who controls EV battery access and interoperability between vehicles and home energy ecosystems. As electric vehicles increasingly double as large storage batteries for residential solar energy and grid support, reliance on third-party bidirectional charging gear remains vulnerable to over-the-air software alterations. Industry advocates emphasize the need for transparent communication regarding functional changes, clear pathways for certified third-party equipment, and established regulatory standards for vehicle discharge protocols.
Source: Original report