Ford is integrating its BlueOval Charge Network with Octopus Energy’s electric vehicle charging platform Electroverse to streamline public charging for private and business customers.

Users will be able to access over 1,200 charging networks

Starting from October this year, Ford customers can download the Electroverse app and connect their Ford account to access over one million public chargers through the app’s network.

The partnership means private and business customers can charge on the go. With a single app and card for the new BlueOval Charge Network x Octopus Electroverse solution, users can access over 1,200 charging networks, bypassing the need for multiple accounts with different providers.

The app displays charge points and their availability and also gives transparent pricing. Thanks to the intelligent route planner, the system automatically identifies the most convenient and cost-effective charging stops on their journey.

In-car support via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means customers can use a familiar interface both in and out of the car without the need to switch between apps. Users also have the option to view and upload images of charge points, a useful feature for those charging in an unfamiliar location.

By linking their Ford and Octopus accounts, users will be able to benefit from special features, including a three-month Ionity Premium trial for private customers as well as the option to have their public charging payment integrated into their home energy billing.

Business customers can also access three months of free access to the Octopus Fleet portal, which offers the flexibility to assign charging cards to specific drivers, discounts on major networks and customisable reporting including monthly invoicing and multi-manufacturer operation. By giving business customers professional fleet charging management tools, it makes electric fleet oversight even more simple and contributes to increased uptime.

Sven Pleines, manager, public charging at Ford Model e, Europe, said: “We understand that for both private and business customers, public charging that is convenient, easy to use and good value is paramount.

“BlueOval Charge Network x Octopus Electroverse will deliver this and more, making the range of Ford electric vehicles an even more attractive proposition.”

Matt Davies, director at Octopus Electroverse, added: “Thanks to our partnership with Ford, we’re able to give even more drivers more freedom and confidence over how, when, and where they charge and it’s fantastic working on this together.”