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

With millions of EVs already on the road—and projections indicating continued growth—there’s an urgent demand for robust charging infrastructure, particularly fast-charging solutions. Gas stations, with their strategic locations along major routes, are uniquely positioned to meet this need.

Though some gas station operators might perceive EV charging as costly or complex, it represents a forward-thinking investment. Offering EV charging stations can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and drive additional revenue streams.

Let’s explore why gas stations equipped with EV chargers are becoming increasingly popular among both EV drivers and traditional customers alike.

EV Drivers Seek Charging Options at Gas Stations

On the surface, it might seem counterintuitive for EV drivers to frequent gas stations, given that they no longer rely on fuel pumps. However, the majority of EV owners still value the convenience of public charging stations, especially when traveling long distances. Our research indicates that 29% of EV drivers in the EU already utilize gas station charging facilities regularly, while another 21% express interest in doing so if the option were available.

Unlike standard AC charging stations, which can take hours to fully charge a vehicle, DC fast chargers reduce charging times to under an hour, sometimes even as short as 15 minutes. These fast chargers are ideal for EV drivers looking for quick refueling during road trips, and gas stations are naturally well-positioned to accommodate this demand.

Moreover, many EV drivers who lack access to private charging at home depend heavily on public charging infrastructure. Fast charging at gas stations offers a practical solution for these drivers to recharge efficiently during their daily commutes.

Capitalize on Opportunistic Charging Behavior

Traditional fueling habits differ significantly from EV charging behaviors. When filling up a conventional vehicle, drivers tend to wait until their tank is nearly empty before stopping at a gas station. In contrast, EV drivers are more likely to charge their vehicles whenever the opportunity arises, much like how we charge our phones or laptops throughout the day.

This opportunistic charging behavior makes gas stations prime locations for EV drivers to recharge. When EV drivers encounter a gas station with charging stations, they’re highly likely to take advantage of the opportunity, especially if the charging infrastructure is easy to use and reliable.

Attract New Customers Through EV Charging

Installing EV charging stations offers a hidden benefit: it puts your gas station on the map—literally. While gas stations have historically relied on word-of-mouth and signage, EV charging stations are indexed by various digital platforms, including Google Maps, Apple Maps, and specialized EV charging apps. EV drivers frequently consult these resources to locate nearby charging options, whether for spontaneous trips or planned journeys.

Take a moment to search for “electric vehicle charging stations near me” on Google and observe the results. Imagine if your gas station appeared on that list! Not only does this visibility attract EV drivers, but it also positions your business as forward-thinking and environmentally responsible.

Enhance Your Brand Image with EV Charging

Beyond gaining visibility, installing EV charging stations signals to consumers that your business is committed to sustainability. In today’s environmentally conscious market, customers increasingly seek brands aligned with their values. Research shows that nearly 80% of consumers consider sustainability critical when choosing products or services. Additionally, 62% of the general public and 61% of potential EV buyers view EV adoption as an environmentally friendly choice.

Even if your current customer base doesn’t include EV owners, they likely appreciate businesses embracing sustainable practices. By installing EV charging stations, you demonstrate a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a cleaner future.

Your Existing Customers Are Already EV Owners—or Will Be Soon

Did you know that 38% of current EV owners in Europe also own a gas-powered vehicle? Many new EV adopters experiment with electric driving before fully transitioning away from combustion engines. This means that some of your current customers visiting your gas station may already own EVs—and could charge them there if the option existed.

Even if your customers aren’t EV owners yet, many are likely considering making the switch. According to EY research, over 48% of U.S. consumers plan to purchase an EV as their next vehicle, with similar trends globally. As this shift accelerates, the demand for EV charging infrastructure will grow exponentially.

Learn More About EV Charging for Fuel Retailers

Integrating electric mobility into your gas station isn’t just about attracting and retaining customers—it’s also about capitalizing on new revenue streams, such as commercial fleet charging and upselling opportunities. However, setting up EV charging infrastructure, especially fast chargers, requires careful planning and execution.

For a comprehensive guide on transforming your gas station into an EV charging hub, check out our extensive fuel retail resource. It covers everything you need to know about navigating this exciting transition and ensuring your business remains competitive in tomorrow’s energy landscape.