Ford is to hook up with Octopus Energy to offer ‘intelligent’ home charging tariffs on its electric vehicles, similar to those offered by rivals including Tesla.

The ‘new energy experiences’ will enable Ford customers to charge their EVs using energy tariffs with save money and charge when the grid is greenest.

Developed to support Ford’s expanding EV line-up, the opportunities will initially be available from early 2024 to drivers of Ford Mustang Mach-E, followed by the new Ford Explorer  when it arrives in the middle of the year.

A newly developed Dynamic Charging feature is designed to enable Ford EVs to communicate with Octopus’ intelligent supply network=. As a result, owners of compatible models will be able to plug in their vehicle, input their desired state-of-charge and departure time using a smartphone app and simply get on with their day – safe in the knowledge that their battery will be automatically charged using tariffs designed to maximise cost savings and the use of renewable energy.

“Our new energy initiative is another milestone on our journey to offer a new generation of all-electric vehicles built for a connected world while providing truly outstanding customer experiences,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe. “We’ve specifically chosen to work with energy providers that share our disruptor mindset and that customers can rely on to deliver leading rates for charging with renewable electricity, so that their EV will be ready to go when they are.”

Ford research indicates up to 87 per cent of Mustang Mach-E drivers charge their vehicle at home, and that the cost of energy used is the most significant consideration when charging.

In Great Britain, Octopus Energy’s energy services business, Octopus Energy Services, will be the preferred installer of Ford customers’ home charge points.

Ford will offer 10 electric vehicles in Europe by 2025, including Explorer, Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning,  Puma, E-Transit,  E-Transit Custom,  E-Transit Courier,  E-Tourneo Custom,  E-Tourneo Courier  and a further mid-size crossover.

The Courier will be included in the deal