I never thought I’d see EV chargers next to fuel pumps. But last year, while stopping at a gas station in a busy city, I spotted four high-speed chargers installed beside the usual diesel lanes. That’s when I realized—gas stations are evolving fast.
To stay relevant in the electric era, gas stations must offer high-speed EV charging, reimagine user experience, and turn every stop into a revenue opportunity.
After helping one client integrate EV chargers, their foot traffic jumped by 20%, and convenience store sales increased with it.
Why are gas stations perfect for EV charging?
Gas stations already sit on prime land and serve constant vehicle traffic.
By adding fast chargers, they can stay essential to travelers, whether they drive gasoline or electric vehicles.
Location is the advantage
Most gas stations already have what EV users want: restrooms, coffee, parking, and visibility.
Comparison: Gas Stations vs. Public Parking
| Feature | Gas Stations | Public Parking |
|---|---|---|
| Easy vehicle access | ✅ Yes | 🚫 Often limited |
| Retail availability | ✅ Convenience store | 🚫 Usually none |
| Lighting & safety | ✅ 24/7 operation | ⚠️ Not always secure |
| Existing power lines | ✅ Mostly present | ⚠️ May need upgrade |
With the right chargers, gas stations can serve EV drivers better than many public sites.
What kind of EV infrastructure should gas stations install?
The wrong charger leads to long queues and lost revenue.
Gas stations should invest in 120kW+ DC fast chargers, with reliable power access, cooling systems, and flexible payment options.
What I’ve learned from the field
One gas station tried installing Level 2 chargers. Drivers stayed for hours, clogging space and scaring off new customers. Upgrading to DC fast charging fixed the problem fast.
Recommended Setup:
| Component | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Charger power | 120kW or more |
| Connector types | CCS + CHAdeMO |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled preferred |
| Payment system | QR code, RFID, app, contactless card |
| Monitoring software | Real-time fault alerts + usage data |
Smart chargers reduce downtime, speed up service, and let staff focus on other business areas.
How can EV charging boost gas station profits?
Charging is not just a utility—it’s a business tool.
Gas stations can earn from charging fees, increased store sales, and partnerships with charging operators or brands.
Real example from a client
A client offered free EV charging for 30 minutes with every purchase over $10 at their convenience store. It boosted snack sales and made the station a local favorite.
Revenue Channels:
| Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| Charging fees | Per kWh, session, or time-based |
| Advertising | Digital screens on chargers |
| Store upselling | While users charge, they buy more |
| Brand partnerships | EV OEMs or platforms pay for exposure |
EV chargers turn a five-minute fuel stop into a 20-minute engagement opportunity.
How can gas stations future-proof their business?
Transitioning to multi-energy service is the long game.
Gas stations should pilot EV projects, monitor demand, and gradually scale into full-service mobility hubs.
My roadmap for station owners
- Start with 2–4 fast chargers at the highest traffic site
- Monitor usage, feedback, and wait times via software
- Add solar panels to offset grid costs
- Offer bundled services: coffee, car wash, EV charging
- Expand to other locations once demand proves stable
Future mobility won’t be only about fuel. It’ll be about experience, convenience, and energy mix.
Conclusion
Gas stations can survive—and thrive—in the EV era by adapting their services. With fast charging, smart layouts, and a focus on user experience, they can become vital stops for the next generation of drivers.
At SANKE, we provide complete solutions for fast and scalable EV charging stations, perfect for gas station upgrades. With our affordable DC chargers, smart software, and OEM/ODM support, you don’t need to overpay for brand-name hardware. Let’s build the next generation of energy stations—together.
FAQs
What is the power demand for EV chargers?
The power demand depends on charger type. DC fast chargers typically require 50kW–350kW per unit, needing robust electrical infrastructure. Gas stations should plan for at least 120kW per charger.
What is the best strategy for EV charging?
The best strategy includes choosing high-traffic locations, offering fast charging, integrating user-friendly payments, and using smart software for monitoring and load balancing.
What is the future of gas station design?
Future gas stations will become energy hubs, offering EV charging, battery storage, solar integration, and customer-friendly amenities like lounges and automated retail.
What is the future of EV charging stations?
EV charging stations will be faster, smarter, and more integrated. Expect wide use of ultra-fast DC chargers, mobile apps, renewable energy, and bidirectional (V2G) technology.
