The future of electric vehicle charging stations: restaurants, B2B meeting spaces – the race for new customer experiences

Automotive is currently undergoing a seismic shift toward electric vehicles (EVs), transforming not only the way we travel, but also the way we experience it. Therefore, the challenge will be how to redefine the role of traditional gas stations?

In the 1960s. Drive-thru restaurants have revolutionized meal times. They have transformed the long wait into a quick and convenient experience. Charging stations are redefining the concept of refueling. It’s no longer just about quick stops, but about creating attractive and engaging spaces.

One of the station concepts was presented by the winning design – in the Electric Fueling Station of the Future competition organized by Electric Autonomy Canada – by architect James Silvester. He proposed a photovoltaic-covered wooden station, visible in the photos, designed in the shape of a circle with great possibilities for customization. It can include cafes, stores and game rooms, as well as plant-filled courtyards and playgrounds.

Nevertheless, this cultural shift also affects the way we approach energy pricing, for example – charging all cars at once may seem feasible, but the physical limitations become obvious when you have a larger number of vehicles.

Imagine 30+ vehicles charging at the same time – that’s a challenge. One solution is dynamic time-based pricing. A person staying for 30 minutes, for example, could pay a lower rate than someone staying for 1 hour ⏳. Pricing could also take demand into account, making fast charging cheaper in some locations. New payment methods, such as subscriptions, could streamline the charging process.

In addition, residential energy providers can expand their services to include energy for charging stations, simplifying the billing process for consumers. The change will also facilitate the transformation of traditional oil & gas companies into energy companies.

Progress in this area is undeniably transformational. The traditional refueling process is ripe for innovation. In densely populated areas, merchants are integrating shopping and charging infrastructure to offer convenience and sustainability. On the highways, companies are changing the way people travel, with a focus on safety and relaxation on long trips.

These are just a few examples of the future of charging stations – a journey marked by innovation, sustainability and a better user experience. As Boryszew Green Energy & Gas, we are looking for new solutions and investments in the area of electric car charging. Supplying components to major electric car OEMs in Europe, China and the US, we have unique expertise in this area.

Mikolaj Budzanowski
CEO of Boryszew Green Energy & Gas