I figure the answer is yes, since one of the video shows it attached to a buggy, without the battery/grip.

But curious what the options are for powering the gimbal itself off a v-lock or AB battery.

I included what the manual says, but not sure if it will work without the handgrip attached.

Hey Tom, just as 2# mentioned, you can use a power bank when the grip attached. We'll release more accessories in the future.