Convenient Store EV Charging Stations: EV charging stations are quickly expanding to convenience stores and Couche-Tard is next up in bringing electric vehicle charging solutions to the U.S.
European global EV charging leader Couche-Tard is committed to expanding EV charger availability in the U.S. and Canada. Four years ago, they introduced stations in Norway, the world’s most mature EV market. They currently have a network of over 1,000 chargers at more than 230 Circle K stores in Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
Over the next two years, the company is planning to bring EV charging units to 200 Circle K and Couche-Tard stores across North America. The U.S. DCFC rollout is starting with a Circle K store in Rock Hill, South Carolina. They plan to use this site “to better understand U.S. customer needs, closely tracking driver usage and the resulting impacts on in-store foot traffic”. This store is also conveniently located along a commuter and travel corridor in a metropolitan area where electric vehicle traffic is predicted to grow.
Other businesses should follow the lead of Couche-Tard’s strategic approach to Convenient Store EV Charging Stations by expanding their charging networks in areas with strong EV adoption rates. Convenience stores are well-suited to support the growing EV population – they draw in customers who need a charge while also giving them the option to purchase food and drinks and use the restroom while their EV is charging. And, since they’re often conveniently located along major transportation routes, these locations play a role in curbing range anxiety while serving as a charging option in the day-to-day routines of EV drivers.
