The Future of Gas Stations: Sustain Profitability with EV Charging

The business model of traditional gas stations is at a crossroads. Declining fuel demand, driven by the rise of fuel-efficient vehicles and electric alternatives, is impacting their profitability. Fluctuating oil prices create unpredictable revenue streams, while tightening environmental policies further threaten the profit margin on gas station businesses.

As the automotive industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, the future of gas stations is in danger. Major car manufacturers are shifting their focus toward electrification, with many pledging to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles in the coming decades. This transition brings an urgent need for widespread EV charging infrastructure, presenting a compelling opportunity for gas stations to transform into EV charging stations.

Opportunities for Gas Stations to Electrify

The increasing gas station closing scenarios make it crucial to explore alternative revenue sources. Transition to an EV gas station model allows future-proof operations and avoids closed gas station scenarios. Here are why gas station electrification is a good opportunity:

1. EV Market Growth Trends

The global adoption of EVs has accelerated remarkably, increasing the demand for gas stations with EV charging to accommodate the growing number of drivers switching to electric mobility. According to the IEA, In 2023 alone, nearly 14 million new electric vehicles were registered worldwide, marking a 35% increase from the previous year and bringing the total number of EVs on the road to 40 million. ^[1] 

This surge is not confined to certain regions, as the whole world is now promoting EVs. Projections indicate that this momentum will continue, and almost 350 million EVs are likely to be on the road in the world by 2030. ^[2]

2. Policy and Financial Support

Governments worldwide are implementing policies and financial incentives to promote the adoption of EVs and the expansion of charging infrastructure. It can be found on official government websites of various countries.

For example, in the United States, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 offers federal tax credits for individuals and businesses investing in EV charging stations, covering 30% of installation costs up to $1,000 for residential installations and higher amounts for commercial projects. ^[3]

Additionally, the UK government will allocate £120 million to help drivers, cabbies, and businesses transition to electric vehicles. ^[4] Such initiatives mean that gas stations with charging stations will be supported in both the near and distant future.

3. Utilization of Existing Infrastructure

Gas stations possess strategic advantages that make them well-suited for hosting EV charging stations. Their prime locations along highways and in urban centers, coupled with existing amenities such as parking spaces and convenience stores, provide a solid foundation for EV infrastructure. Moreover, many gas stations already have the electrical capacity to support charging equipment and streamline the installation process.

4. Adoption of Diversified Operations

Integrating EV charging stations will safeguard the future of gas stations as it will open the door for diversified service offerings. While traditional fuel vehicle stops are typically brief, EV charging sessions can range from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the EV charger’s speed and the vehicle’s battery capacity. This extended dwell time presents an opportunity to increase additional profits.

Gas stations can expand their convenience stores, introduce dining options, offer car wash services, or even create comfortable lounges with Wi-Fi access, all of which will contribute to better revenue and customer loyalty.

Meanwhile, if you install charging stations with a large advertising screen and rent these screens out to brands, it will bring advertising revenue to the gas station.

How to Overcome the Challenges for Electric Gas Stations?

While it is true that future gas stations can integrate EV charging stations, the future of gas stations faces several challenges, such as high electricity costs, insufficient stability of the power grid, and long charging times. Let’s see how to overcome them:

1. Electricity Costs

High electricity costs remain a major concern for EV charging, particularly during peak demand hours. Smart energy management systems offer a practical solution to this issue. By intelligently monitoring peak and valley electricity prices and grid loads, it allows electric gas stations to optimize electricity allocation and lower operational expenses.

2. Стабильность сети

Adding high-power charging stations can put significant strain on the electrical grid. Implementing a dynamic load balancing function, which distributes charging power efficiently between chargers, can prevent overloading. Additionally, integrating solar panels with battery storage solutions can help charging points generate their own electricity, reducing dependence on the power grid and contributing to a greener future.

3. Время зарядки

Long charging times are a common concern for EV drivers and people who want to buy EVs. However, advancements in ultra-fast charging technology are addressing this issue. High-powered chargers capable of delivering 350kW and even 600kW can significantly cut down charging times, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicles within 10 to 15 minutes. Installing these rapid chargers ensures customer satisfaction and keeps station turnover rates high.

For example, EVB’s 2 Guns DC EV Charger with Liquid Cooling provides a charging power of 320kW-360kW, which can replenish 300 kilometers of range in 10 minutes. Its liquid cooling technology can effectively reduce heat loss and extend the service life.

How to Invest in Future EV Gas Stations?

If you want to make the future of gas stations more profitable, here are some top business strategies to follow:

1. Market Research and Positioning

Understanding local EV adoption rates and charging demand is important before investing in EV infrastructure. Conducting market research helps identify the optimal number of charging stations needed, user preference for AC or DC charging, peak usage periods, and potential competitors. This data-driven approach ensures that investments align with actual demand and make the future of gas stations really bright.

2. Choosing the Right Partners

Partnering with expert EV charger manufacturers and utility providers is important. Reliable charging equipment ensures long-term reliability and compliance with different regions’ standards, while collaborations with energy companies will help secure favorable electricity rates.

3. Optimizing Site Layout and Services

Smart site planning and investment in reliable charging infrastructure will play a significant role in determining the future of gas station business. Charging spots should be easily accessible, allowing smooth vehicle entry and exit. Safety considerations, such as proper lighting and fire prevention measures, must also be prioritized. In addition, integrating smart payment solutions, such as contactless transactions and app-based billing, can enhance user experience.

4. Marketing and Promotion

Attracting new EV customers requires effective marketing. Leveraging social media, local advertising, and partnerships with EV communities can increase visibility and help you make the future of gas stations bright. Special promotions, loyalty programs, and discounts for customers who charge at the station can further encourage repeat visits.

Expert EV Charging Station Manufacturer

The key to transitioning to EV gas stations lies in collaborating with professional charging station manufacturers to provide customers with the best charging experience.

EVB Charger provides a comprehensive suite of EV charging solutions tailored for gas stations aiming to transition into the electric era. Our advanced DC fast chargers, ranging from 20kW to 600kW, offer high-speed charging capabilities while incorporating innovative features such as advertising displays to enhance revenue streams.

EVB chargers are compatible with the OCPP 1.6J protocol, enabling data transmission. Remote monitoring and management can be achieved through the Z-BOX or EV-SAAS app, allowing real-time status and historical data to be viewed anytime, anywhere.

Our DC charging stations offer a dynamic load-balancing function, allowing multiple DC chargers to operate simultaneously during peak hours. It ensures safety and increases additional revenue. Meanwhile, EVB chargers can integrate with battery energy storage systems (BESS) and solar panels to minimize grid impact and energy costs.

With 24/7 customer support, professional installation services, and customized charging solutions, we make the future of gas stations to electrification success!

Wrapping-Up

The future of gas station businesses is at a turning point, and embracing EV charging is the key to long-term sustainability. Existing infrastructure, strategic site enhancements, and optimized energy management can drive a successful transition into profitable EV hubs. The expanding EV market demands reliable fast-charging solutions and smart operational strategies to maximize efficiency.

EVB provides high-speed DC chargers, advanced software, and cost-effective energy management, which ensures a seamless shift into the electric future. Связаться с нами now for a customized solution!

Ссылки

[1] Electric Vehicles. Available at: https://www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/electric-vehicles (Accessed: 28 March 2025)

[2] By 2030 EVs represent more than 60% of vehicles sold globally, and require an adequate surge in chargers installed in buildings. Available at: https://www.iea.org/reports/by-2030-evs-represent-more-than-60-of-vehicles-sold-globally-and-require-an-adequate-surge-in-chargers-installed-in-buildings (Accessed: 28 March 2025)

[3] Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit for Individuals. Available at: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/alternative-fuel-vehicle-refueling-property-credit-for-individuals (Accessed: 28 March 2025)

[4] £120 million to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/120-million-to-roll-out-more-electric-vans-taxis-and-motorbikes (Accessed: 28 March 2025)