Roam PowerBridge Pro Works As A V2L Device, But Not For Whole Home Backup Power

Why It Matters

The device’s false whole‑home backup claim could mislead EV owners during outages, exposing them to safety hazards and undermining confidence in V2L technologies.

Key Takeaways

• PowerBridge Pro can output 240V but not whole‑home backup.
• Device misrepresented ability to feed split‑phase house circuits.
• 240V mode still powers front 120V outlets, creating hazard.
• Safety certifications pending; UL/ETL approval unlikely in current form.
• Reviewer removed video, warns users to verify settings before use.

Summary

The State of Charge host revisits Rome Energy’s PowerBridge Pro after discovering that the device does not deliver the whole‑home backup capability it was marketed to provide. The reviewer explains why the original video was taken down and clarifies the technical limitations of the second‑generation V2L unit.

PowerBridge Pro can draw up to 7.5 kW from a Tesla and supplies two 120 V NEMA 5‑20 outlets plus a rear 240 V NEMA 14‑50 socket. However, the unit cannot interface with a typical U.S. split‑phase home circuit because it lacks a neutral connection, and when set to 240 V the front 120 V outlets remain live, posing a serious overload risk. The company’s claim that the device could power a house via a generator inlet proved false during on‑site testing.

The reviewer quotes his own warning: “If you put it on 240 V, these outlets are still live, which means the unit will send 240 V to these outlets.” He also notes Rome Energy’s response that they “still haven’t figured that out,” and points out that the device has yet to receive UL, ETL, or CSA certification—standards unlikely to be met in its current configuration.

For consumers, the takeaway is clear: the PowerBridge Pro is a functional vehicle‑to‑load tool for camping or short‑term appliance use, but it is not a viable whole‑home backup solution. The misrepresentation erodes trust in emerging V2L products and may invite regulatory scrutiny, underscoring the need for rigorous testing before market claims are made.

Original Description

In this video, I explain why I removed my Roam Energy first-look video that I posted a few days ago. I did so because after further testing, the PowerBridge unit did not work as advertised, and I didn't want my followers to be misled.

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