Vauxhall has announced a new partnership with provider Octopus Energy, which is said to deliver the first integrated home & public charging package for its customers. 

As a result, Vauxhall’s ‘Plug and Go’ offering will be expanded to include access to Octopus’ electric charging service, Electric Universe. 

Electric Universe provides over 300,000 charge points across the UK and Europe from a variety of charging providers, such as IONITY, Shell Recharge, Osprey, FASTNED and ubitricity.

Another new element to Plug and Go includes free installation of a home smart charger via Octopus Energy, which comes with access to a flexible charging tariff called Intelligent Octopus. 

The Intelligent Octopus tariff is claimed to feature electricity from 100 percent renewable sources, and ensures users charge their vehicles at the most affordable rate. 

The energy provider estimates that motorists could save up to £660 per year on the cost of charging their vehicles, compared to a normal, variable rate.

Customers will gain an initial £25 off their bill, as well as an introductory £10 credit on their access card should they opt to sign up to the Electric Universe platform - either as part of the Plug & Go bundle or individually.

The home smart charger can also be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing users to schedule charging to make the most of the tariff. 

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and by partnering with a highly-respected brand like Octopus Energy, we’re giving our electric vehicle drivers the ability to ensure that they charge at home in the greenest and most affordable way possible as well as simplifying public charging by providing access to many networks across the UK with just one card.” 

Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Product Officer of Octopus Energy Group, added: “It has never been a better time for drivers to go electric. With the range of vehicles, chargers, flexible tariffs like ‘Intelligent Octopus’ and roaming services like ‘Electric Universe’ available now, making the switch has become an absolute no-brainer.

“We are incredibly excited to be working with such a forward-thinking brand as Vauxhall, helping its customers switch to electric faster and more comfortably. 

“Going electric is not only good for the planet, it's also cheaper than fueling gas-guzzlers and has the added benefit of helping to end our dependence on fossil fuels.”