THE EVOLUTION OF FORECOURT RETAIL.
The car industry is undergoing significant transformation as the consumer switch to electric vehicles (EVs) gains momentum. As a result, the traditional petrol forecourt, is rapidly evolving to accommodate the growing demand for electric vehicles. At the forecourt, the biggest difference between a car and an Electric car is time, the time required to sufficiently charge your vehicle. This is the biggest factor in the evolution of the forecourt.
This article is taken from an insights deck that we prepared for a client earlier this year, and explores the changing landscape of petrol forecourts as they transition into electric vehicle charging stations.
THE NEED FOR Electric Vehicles
The rising concerns over climate change, pollution, and the depletion of fossil fuel resources have driven the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Governments worldwide are implementing policies to incentivise EV ownership, while automotive manufacturers are investing heavily in developing affordable and efficient electric models. This transition has necessitated an infrastructure overhaul, resulting in the transformation of petrol forecourts into EV charging hubs.
Infrastructure Utilisation
Petrol stations are typically strategically located along major road networks, making them ideal locations for EV charging infrastructure. Repurposing existing forecourts reduces the need for additional land use and optimises the utilisation of already established infrastructure.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Petrol stations are undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate EV charging. These upgrades include the installation of high-power charging stations, electricity supply infrastructure enhancements, and battery storage systems to manage the increased electrical demand.
Petrol stations are reconfiguring their layouts to ensure charging points are easily accessible to EV drivers. This involves strategically positioning charging stations and providing convenient parking spaces dedicated to electric vehicles. Some forecourts are also incorporating rooftop solar panels to generate renewable energy to power the charging infrastructure. Shell’s first EV charging hub in Fulham, London is a perfect example of innovation change.
Diversification of Services
Recognising the shift in customer needs, petrol forecourts are diversifying their services. Aside from the technical and power needs, the biggest factor influencing the evolution of the forecourt is time. The time required to sufficiently charge an EV, creates dwell-time and in retail ‘dwell-time is sell-time’. All EV forecourts are incorporating amenities such as cafes, convenience stores, and lounges to cater to EV drivers during charging sessions. This creates a more appealing and customer-friendly experience, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. Gridserve’s Electric Forecourts in Braintree and Norwich provide these services - creating a space for business EV drivers (in particular) to work in comfort whilst their car reaches full charge.
Providing further and (most importantly) relevant services, drives revenue opportunities significantly at the forecourt of the future.
Integration of Digital Solutions
Petrol forecourts are embracing digital solutions to streamline the EV charging process. Mobile applications and online platforms provide real-time information about charging station availability, payment options, and charging status updates. It’s important of the EV owner to feel in control of their ‘charge’ from a cost and speed perspective. Give them digital touch-points to interact with during their visit, to offer F&B purchases (and more) will maximise spend at the forecourt. Seamless digital integration enhances convenience and accessibility for EV drivers.
SUMMARY
As consumers continue to switch to Electric Vehicles, the transformation of petrol forecourts into EV charging stations becomes an essential step in accommodating the evolving needs of motorists. The integration of high-power charging infrastructure, enhanced accessibility, and diversified services ensures a seamless transition towards electric mobility. This transformation not only benefits consumers but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future. The changing face of petrol forecourts symbolises the positive steps towards a cleaner, emission-free transportation system.
This article comes from a wider insight deck we prepared for a client, if you want to discuss any of these topics further or need bespoke industry insight - get in touch!