What technologically proficient communities want from V2X: transport–environment implications from online discussions

While bidirectional charging offers substantial environmental benefits, user acceptance through online social network discourse remains underexplored. This study analyses 11,454 comments to map perceptions of vehicle-to-grid (V2G), vehicle-to-house (V2H), and vehicle-to-load (V2L) using topic modelling and large language model (LLM) sentiment classification. The sample is characterised as a pre-mainstream, tech-savvy early-adopter community in which V2X is currently being evaluated, whose articulated priorities and concerns illuminate early-market dynamics. Nine topics were identified, with sentiment analysis achieving 81.8% accuracy through a cost-efficient model that outperformed premium alternatives. Overall sentiment was positive-leaning (39% positive, 33% neutral, 28% negative), revealing a clear preference hierarchy: users prioritise personal resilience (V2L/V2H) over grid services (V2G), while fleet applications received strong approval. Beyond confirming known barriers (compensation expectations, battery concerns, and minimum charge requirements), this study uncovered user-driven insights, including the cognitive burden of V2G management, cost, health, and safety comparisons with alternatives such as gas generators, and repurposing older electric vehicles (EVs) for storage. Findings inform design, product, and communication strategies targeted at the early-market segment, while demonstrating scalable methods for monitoring opinions on emerging transportation technologies.