I tried to charge out XC40 Recharge with a portable generator which has 240V output. We're able to use this with our RV in 120V mode for computers, microwave, A/C. etc but get "Connection Error, please connect again.." It has a 30A output and the light on the charger turns solid white when plugged into the generator.

I also tried the 120V option which gave the same errors except ONCE it started charging, very slowly of course, but it wouldn't work again.

I've tried setting the charge limit in the car down to 10A but no better.

I've read that it is possible to charge EVs with a portable RV generator. Does anyone have experience with this or ideas? A friend suggested that the EV might require a super clean signal and may need a voltage conditioner.

 

Sounds as if you're asking for a bigger load than the generator wants to supply. Either way, even if it worked, you'd likely spend considerably more in the generator gas it took to charge your PHEV than if you just drove it in the Hybrid mode.

 

This is the XC40 Recharge, so not Hybrid Mode. And I should have mentioned that yes, I know, I'm defeating the purpose of having an EV and charging it with a generator. The reason I'm trying this is because we have a property that we can't quite get to and back on a single charge. We can stop at a charging station but it's often busy and adds time to our trip. Was hoping I could put it on the generator for 3-4 hours and get enough juice to get back home.

 

Does your XC40 'NOT' have the option to add charge to the batteries while you're on the way there?

 

High-quality, properly rated generators can safely power the XC40 Recharge, though charging times may be longer compared to standard home or public EV chargers.