Gas Station and Convenience Stores Might Survive the EV Future – With Help from These Chargers
In the era of electric vehicles (EVs), there’s one thing everyone is wondering: Will gas stations and convenience stores survive? With the rise of EVs, these traditional retail outlets may face the threat of mass extinction, as their core customer base shifts to charging electric vehicles instead of buying gasoline. However, a new breed of EV chargers may promise new life for the future of these stores.
The shift to EVs is accelerating, and the charge station infrastructure it requires is lagging behind. According to the International Energy Agency, there are roughly two million electric vehicles in the world, but fewer than 300,000 public charging points around the world. This means that many drivers rely on domestic chargers, which often require a home in order to be conveniently installed.
However, some gas station and convenience store operators have realized that this growing market for EV charging can provide an opportunity for their businesses. They are installing chargers that are both quick and reliable for customers. By providing a place to charge their vehicles quickly and safely, these stores are investing in their future and making sure they will be able to remain relevant and profitable.
One company, EVgo, is leading the charge in this space. EVgo has installed new systems that are capable of charging EVs in minutes, rather than hours. The 200 kW quick chargers can provide an 80 percent charge in 20 minutes, and the 400 kW ultra-fast chargers can provide the same charge in just eight minutes. These chargers are becoming increasingly popular and are transforming the way people think about the charging of EVs.
Another company, FLO, is also looking to revolutionize EV charging. It has developed a mobile app that can detect the location of the customer’s car, allowing them to charge anywhere they go. The app can also control the charge rate of the vehicle in order to maximize range and efficiency. This is a particularly useful tool for those living in urban areas, where access to public charging is limited.
With this new breed of chargers, convenience stores and gas stations are in a prime position to take advantage of the growing EV market. By installing EV chargers, these businesses can capitalize on the emerging market and extend their presence in the industry. This presents a great opportunity for businesses to create new revenue streams and remain competitive in the age of electric vehicles.
Clearly, the shift to EVs is accelerating and the associated infrastructure is lagging behind. But with the help of innovative new chargers, gas station and convenience store operators can ensure they remain relevant and viable in the new EV economy. With the use of reliable, efficient chargers, these outlets can tap into the new EV market and remain competitive in the future.