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Earlier this month, Tesla expanded its Powershare Home Backup feature to eligible Model 3 and Model Y electric cars, allowing them to help power homes during electricity outages.
Announced on October 6, 2026, the feature lets energy stored in the car’s battery extend backup power when the vehicle is connected to a compatible Tesla home energy system.
Tesla estimates that the Model 3 Standard and Model Y Standard can provide up to two additional days of backup power. Premium and Performance versions can provide more than two days, according to the company.
These estimates assume the car starts with a 90% battery charge and a household uses about 30 kilowatt-hours of electricity per day. Actual backup time depends on the car’s charge level, household electricity use and the equipment being powered.
The system requires a compatible vehicle, a Tesla Powerwall 3 and a compatible Tesla Wall Connector. It is not available automatically on every Model 3 or Model Y. Some older vehicles may qualify, while others do not.
During an outage, the car can supply electricity through the home’s backup system, helping keep essential appliances and lights running for longer.
Tesla says support for Powerwall 2 and Powerwall+ systems is coming, but these systems are not currently supported for this feature.
The expansion gives eligible Model 3 and Model Y owners another way to use their car batteries beyond driving, but the backup duration is an estimate, not a guarantee for every home.
Sources: Tesla Powershare Support; Electrek, October 6, 2026.
