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

With millions of electric vehicles (EVs) on the world's roads today—and this number expected to grow significantly in the coming years—there is an urgent need for suitable charging infrastructure, particularly fast-charging solutions. Fuel retailers are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend, thanks to their convenient locations along major roadways and their reputation for offering a wide range of services that drivers have come to rely on.

While many gas station owners recognize the potential benefits of offering EV charging, they often perceive it as costly and complex. Is EV charging really something fuel retailers should consider now? This article explains why gas stations equipped with EV chargers are drawing more customers today.

EV Drivers Want to Charge at Gas Stations

At first glance, the idea of EV charging at gas stations may seem counterintuitive, given one of the key advantages of EVs is their ability to charge virtually anywhere. However, most EV drivers still value the convenience of public charging, especially during long trips.

Our research shows that 29% of EV drivers in the EU already charge their vehicles at gas stations regularly, and another 21% would take advantage of the option if available. This is particularly significant since charging an EV at a typical AC station can take hours, whereas DC fast chargers can reduce this time to under an hour, sometimes as little as 15 minutes.

For drivers on long-distance trips, gas stations are strategically located to provide the quick charge they need. Additionally, many EV drivers without access to private charging at home depend heavily on public charging infrastructure, making fast charging at gas stations an attractive option for daily commutes.

Benefit from Opportunistic Charging Behavior

Unlike traditional fueling habits, where drivers fill up only when necessary, EV charging is more akin to recharging a phone or laptop. People tend to charge their EVs frequently throughout the day, whether at home, work, or while on the road. This opportunistic charging behavior makes gas stations ideal spots for EV drivers to top up their batteries.

When EV drivers spot a gas station offering charging, they are likely to seize the opportunity. This behavior stems from the natural human tendency to avoid range anxiety and maintain a full battery whenever possible. As a result, gas stations with EV chargers are seeing increased foot traffic from both EV and non-EV drivers alike.

Gain Visibility Among New Customers

One often overlooked benefit of installing EV charging stations is the visibility they bring to your gas station. Beyond popular mapping platforms like Google Maps, there are numerous dedicated EV charging station directories that list publicly accessible charging points. EV drivers commonly consult these resources to locate charging stations en route or plan their long-distance journeys.

By having your gas station listed on these platforms, you can attract new customers who are actively searching for charging stations. Imagine the impact if your business appeared alongside others in popular searches like “electric vehicle charging stations near me.” It could make a significant difference in your visibility and customer acquisition.

Stand Out with EV Charging Stations

Installing EV charging stations not only increases your presence on maps but also positions your gas station as forward-thinking and environmentally conscious in the eyes of eco-aware consumers. Offering EV charging is more than just adding a service—it’s a statement that your business is committed to sustainability and addressing climate change.

In today’s environmentally conscious world, many consumers prioritize supporting businesses aligned with their values. Research shows that nearly 80% of consumers consider sustainability crucial, and over 60% of the general public view reducing CO2 emissions in transportation as important. Even non-EV drivers appreciate the environmental commitment behind installing EV charging stations.

Having EV charging at your gas station demonstrates your commitment to the future and the environment, appealing to a broad range of customers—even those who don’t yet own an EV.

Your Existing Customers Are Already Driving Electric (or They Might Soon)

Did you know that 38% of current EV owners in Europe also own a conventional gas-powered vehicle? Many new EV adopters are testing this new technology before fully transitioning away from combustion engines. This means that some of your current customers who visit your gas station may already own an EV and could charge it there if given the option.

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 buy an EV as their next car, and more than 52% globally. This growing EV population will require a rapid expansion of charging infrastructure to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

Recognizing this trend, many modern gas stations are adapting by easing range anxiety concerns and expanding their service offerings to meet future demands.

Learn More About EV Charging for Fuel Retailers

Integrating electric mobility into your business offers more than just customer attraction and retention. EV charging stations present opportunities for upselling, commercial fleet partnerships, and enhanced brand perception. However, implementing EV charging infrastructure, especially fast charging, can be challenging.

For a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about transforming your gas station into an EV charging hub, check out our detailed fuel retail guide. It covers the practical steps and considerations involved in making this transition and ensuring a seamless charging experience for all.