Octopus Intelligent Go Explained for EV Drivers

Octopus Intelligent Go is a smart EV tariff that charges your electric car during cheap overnight hours automatically, at a rate often around 7 to 10p per kWh compared with roughly 25 to 28p on a standard tariff. You plug in, set your target charge level and departure time in the app, and Octopus decides when to draw power across the cheap window, usually spreading it through the night. Charging a 60kWh battery this way can cost around £4 to £5 rather than roughly £15 to £17 at standard rates. It works with many compatible cars and home chargers and generally needs a smart meter. To make sure you can plug in every night, start with the right cable for your car. Rates and eligibility change, so always check current details with Octopus.

At a glance: Octopus Intelligent Go basics

How does Octopus Intelligent Go work?

It connects to your compatible car or home charger and schedules charging into the cheapest overnight hours for you. You tell the app your target charge percentage and when you need the car ready, then Octopus works out the best times to charge across the cheap window. Because it manages the timing, you often get the low rate even when charging happens outside the standard off-peak hours. You just plug in and leave it, which removes the need to set timers manually every night.

How cheap is the off-peak rate?

The off-peak rate is often around 7 to 10p per kWh, well below a standard tariff of roughly 25 to 28p per kWh. On that rate, charging a 60kWh battery from about 10 to 100% can cost around £4 to £5, versus roughly £15 to £17 at standard prices. That gap is where the saving comes from. Rates change over time and by region, so treat these as approximate and check current prices with Octopus before signing up.

What do you need to use it?

You generally need a smart meter and either a compatible electric car or a compatible home charger, since Intelligent Go controls charging through one of those. Not every car or charger is supported, so check the compatibility list before applying. If your car connects directly, you may not need a dedicated wallbox. The smart meter lets Octopus bill your off-peak use accurately. Eligibility and supported devices change, so confirm current requirements.

Typical requirements

• A working smart meter
• A compatible car or home charger on the eligibility list
• Signing up to the Octopus Intelligent Go tariff

Can you charge outside the cheap window?

Yes, you can still charge whenever you need to, but energy used outside the smart-controlled cheap hours is billed at the tariff's standard day rate. The point of the tariff is to push most charging into the cheap window automatically. If you plug in and set a departure time, Octopus aims to complete the charge cheaply. If you need an urgent top-up during the day, you can override, but you pay the higher rate for that energy.

Is Octopus Intelligent Go worth it?

For drivers who charge at home regularly, it usually offers strong value because it automates the cheapest hours with little effort. The main considerations are the standard day rate for the rest of your home energy and whether your car or charger is compatible. If you can shift most charging overnight, the savings versus a standard tariff can be substantial. Compare it against other EV tariffs and check current rates before deciding.

Frequently asked questions

What is Octopus Intelligent Go?

Octopus Intelligent Go is a smart EV tariff that automatically charges your car during cheap overnight hours, often around 7 to 10p per kWh. You set your target charge and departure time in the app, and Octopus manages the timing. It generally needs a smart meter and a compatible car or charger. Check current rates and eligibility.

How cheap is the Octopus Intelligent Go rate?

The off-peak rate is often around 7 to 10p per kWh, compared with roughly 25 to 28p on a standard tariff. Charging a 60kWh battery can cost around £4 to £5 versus roughly £15 to £17 at standard rates. Prices change over time and by region, so treat these as approximate and check current rates with Octopus.

Do I need a home charger for Intelligent Go?

Not always. Intelligent Go works with a compatible home charger or, for some models, directly with the car. If your car connects directly, a dedicated wallbox may not be required. You do generally need a smart meter. Check the compatibility list and current requirements before signing up, as supported devices change.

Can I charge during the day on this tariff?

Yes, but energy used outside the smart-controlled cheap hours is billed at the standard day rate. The tariff is designed to push most charging into the cheap overnight window automatically. You can override for an urgent top-up, but you pay more for that energy. Plan charging for the cheap window where possible.

What do I need to sign up?

You generally need a working smart meter and a compatible electric car or home charger on the eligibility list, then you switch to the Intelligent Go tariff. Not every car or charger qualifies, so check the current compatibility list first. The smart meter allows Octopus to bill your off-peak charging accurately.

Is Octopus Intelligent Go worth switching to?

For regular home charging it usually offers strong value by automating the cheapest hours. Weigh the standard day rate for your other home energy and confirm your car or charger is compatible. If you shift most charging overnight, savings versus a standard tariff can be substantial. Compare with other EV tariffs and check current rates.

Octopus Intelligent Go is one of several smart EV tariffs, so it is worth comparing before you commit. See our guide to the best EV tariffs in the UK and learn about the cheapest time to charge your EV to get the most from the cheap window. To charge reliably at home, choose the right cable for your car or keep a portable charger as a backup. Always check current rates and eligibility with Octopus.