Why converting your gas station to an EV charging business will attract more customers

With millions of electric vehicles (EVs) already on the world’s roads—and projections indicating continued growth in the coming years—the need for adequate charging infrastructure, particularly fast charging, has never been more urgent. Fuel retailers are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend, leveraging both their strategic roadside locations and their established reputation for providing customer-friendly services.

Although many gas station owners recognize the value of offering EV charging facilities as a forward-thinking investment, they often perceive it as costly and complex. Is EV charging really something fuel retailers should consider now? This article explores why gas stations equipped with EV chargers are drawing in more customers today.

EV Drivers Want to Charge at Gas Stations

On the surface, EV charging and gas stations might seem incompatible, given that one of the primary advantages for EV drivers is the ability to charge their vehicle anytime and anywhere they park. However, this doesn't mean they don’t welcome—or even need—opportunities to charge elsewhere.

In fact, our research indicates that 29% of EV drivers in the EU already charge their vehicles at gas stations regularly, with another 21% expressing interest in doing so if the option becomes available. This is especially relevant since fully charging an EV via a standard (AC) charging station, typically found in homes and apartments, can take several hours. In contrast, fast (DC) chargers, strategically located at gas stations, can charge an EV to around 80% in under an hour, sometimes as little as 15 minutes.

For drivers embarking on long-distance trips, these fast commercial chargers serve as a convenient solution for a quick energy boost. Additionally, many EV drivers who lack access to private parking at home rely heavily on public charging infrastructure to maintain their vehicle’s charge, making gas stations an appealing option for a swift recharge during commutes.

Benefit from Opportunistic Charging Behavior

Unlike traditional fueling habits where drivers tend to fill up only when necessary, EV charging resembles the way we charge our phones or laptops. People generally prefer to start their day with fully charged devices, and they’ll often top up their charge throughout the day whenever the opportunity arises. Similarly, EV drivers aim to keep their battery levels high to avoid range anxiety, often choosing to charge their vehicle well before it approaches depletion.

When EV drivers encounter gas stations offering charging facilities, they’re likely to take advantage of the chance to charge their vehicle. This behavior not only enhances customer satisfaction but also increases the likelihood of repeat visits to your station.

Gain Visibility Among New Customers Looking to Charge

One often overlooked benefit of installing EV charging stations is the increased visibility they bring to your gas station. Beyond just being listed on platforms like Apple or Google Maps, your station can appear on dedicated EV charger mapping websites and apps, which document publicly accessible charging stations. Since there isn’t yet a single, comprehensive charging station finder, EV drivers commonly use multiple resources to locate charging options while traveling or planning long-distance routes.

Consider the results of a popular Google search query like “electric vehicle charging stations near me.” Wouldn’t it be advantageous if your station appeared in those search results? Installing EV chargers can place your business on the radar of potential customers actively seeking charging options.

Stand Out by Installing EV Chargers

Beyond improving your station’s visibility, adding EV charging facilities can differentiate your business in the eyes of environmentally-conscious consumers. Offering EV charging is more than just providing a service—it’s a declaration that your business is prepared for the future and committed to combating climate change.

As global environmental challenges grow more pressing, consumer awareness regarding sustainability is at an all-time high. Many customers seek businesses whose values align with their own. Research shows that nearly 80% of consumers view sustainability as crucial. Furthermore, 62% of the general public—including non-EV drivers—consider reducing CO2 emissions in transportation important, while 61% of potential EV buyers associate electric driving with environmental responsibility.

Even if some of your customers don’t yet own an EV, they likely appreciate initiatives that contribute to a cleaner future. Having EV charging at your gas station demonstrates your commitment to reducing carbon footprints and fostering sustainable practices.

Your Existing Customers Already Drive Electric (or They Might Soon)

Did you know that 38% of current EV owners in Europe also own a gasoline-powered vehicle? Many new EV adopters are testing this new mode of transport before fully transitioning away from conventional internal combustion engines. This means that some of your current customers who fill up their gas tanks at your station today may already own an EV that they could charge at your location if the option were available.

Even if they don’t currently own an EV, many of your customers are likely considering purchasing one. According to research by EY, over 48% of U.S. consumers plan to buy an EV as their next vehicle, with similar figures reported globally. As this EV adoption accelerates, so too must the expansion of charging infrastructure to ensure seamless charging experiences for everyone.

This global priority has prompted numerous modern gas stations to embrace this trend, alleviating range anxiety for (potential) customers while expanding their service offerings to cater to future needs.

Learn More About EV Charging for Fuel Retailers

Tapping into electric mobility offers more than just attracting and retaining customers for gas stations. Providing EV charging stations opens up additional opportunities for upselling, commercial fleet charging partnerships, and enhanced public perception. However, installing EV charging infrastructure, particularly fast chargers, can pose challenges.

To gain deeper insights into this evolving landscape, explore our comprehensive fuel retail guide. It covers everything you need to know about transforming your gas station into an EV charging hub and addresses the practical considerations involved in making this transition.