Entertainment Options at EV Charging Stations
In recent years, the intersection of sustainable transportation and tourism has gained considerable attention, with electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as critical players in this dynamic relationship. With the growing network of charging stations, an opportunity for recreational activities around charging stations exists.
Towns and destinations can rethink the link between transportation and leisure, combining the practicality of EVs with the joy of travel and recreation, creating opportunities for economic growth within communities. Leveraging unique activities that consumers can participate in while charging EVs could allow rural communities specifically to draw tourists looking for a convenient charging experience.
EV Charging Is Good For Local Business
An MIT study revealed that EV charging stations boost spending at nearby businesses with spending being particularly pronounced for businesses within 100 yards of charging stations, and for businesses in low-income areas. With that in mind, more data on what types of activities and amenities around charging stations consumers are looking for is needed.
The U.S. is investing billions of dollars in EV charging infrastructure, and studies reveal key patterns in EV driver behavior and charging demand. EV charging stations should offer basic amenities such as restrooms, trash bins, and public Wi-Fi, but also food and drinks for purchase – just like at a gas station – and various entertainment choices, including open spaces.
What Recreational Options Do EV Drivers Want Most?
Dialectic Engineering points out that even with high-powered Level 2 and DC Fast Charging stations, EV owners will inevitably have to wait while their vehicles charge; hence, an open area near the charging station where customers can sit and read, eat a few snacks or take their dogs out for a quick walk are valued. Other recommended amenities include accessible seating areas, a pet relief station, kids play area and filtered water fountains, among others.
Research in Oregon explored if EV drivers would be interested in participating in recreational activities while charging. Majority of respondents were interested in both indoor and outdoor activities. Dining ranked first, followed by an outdoor picnic, and hiking third. While this data might be skewed since respondents were from Oregon, an “outdoor” destination, it might be worth exploring opportunities for outdoor offerings around charging stations.
Social Activities Around EV Charging
The same Oregon study also evaluated if Oregonians would be interested in participating in social activities while charging their vehicles. While only about a quarter of the respondents selected a “yes,” 54% responded “maybe.”
The types of social activities Oregon residents were most interested in included festivals and fairs, social activities to connect with fellow EV drivers, community gatherings, and interactive workshops; one respondent suggested farmers markets, art markets, and food truck events. Another critical aspect to consider is satisfaction.
A charging station can be a “social hub” — a place to share stories with fellow travelers, leave recommendations for local attractions on community boards, or even find carpool connections through digital or physical postings. These features could create a sense of community among EV users while enhancing the station’s usability.
Increasing EV Charging Satisfaction
In Oregon, EV drivers scored “in the middle” in terms of satisfaction, with the most commonly selected response being “somewhat unsatisfied” (28.2% of the responses in the study). One important note is that no participants chose “highly satisfied” as a response, highlighting a need for improvement.
The prioritization of activities such as dining and nature walks shows there are opportunities for businesses to enhance charging station areas, making them more appealing to EV owners. This preference aligns with the broader trend in the EV industry, emphasizing the importance of charging infrastructure not only as a functional necessity but as an experiential component of the overall travel journey and, therefore, a business opportunity.
To meet users' preferences, expanding charging infrastructure to natural areas like trailheads, state parks, national parks, and hotels is essential, considering the strong interest in nature-related activities among EV owners. Charger accessibility should be prioritized by strategically locating charging stations along major highways and in local areas frequented by people for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.
This approach encourages EV owners to visit businesses with charging facilities and boosts foot traffic and potential revenue for those establishments. Additionally, addressing concerns regarding operational efficiency, safety, proper maintenance, and compatibility with various EV models will simplify the charging process and enhance user experience.
Upscale EV Charging Hubs
One idea is to create upscale rest stops inspired by East Coast service plazas. These rest stops can offer high-end amenities such as quality coffee shops, clean restrooms, and various shopping and dining options. By adopting this approach, EV charging stations can go beyond mere functionality, becoming engaging hubs that align with the trend of viewing EV charging as an integral part of the overall travel experience.
While pet relief areas and playgrounds are a must, some other out-of-the-box activities and amenities can include social and cultural experiences such as cultural events and mini-concerts or live performances, art installations, mini fitness areas, mindfulness and meditation pods, mini libraries and reading corners, work stations.
Educational zones for kids or short workshops and learning sessions for adults are another option, together with EV tech repair kiosks and interactive informational kiosks.
An innovative idea to encourage EV travelers is to offer charging validation that pays for some or all drivers’ charging costs while patronizing the business or travel destination. This strategy aims to meet user needs, enhance satisfaction, and optimize the success of EV infrastructure investments.
Conclusion: The Future of EV Charging
By reimagining charging stations as multifaceted spaces, they can become mini destinations, offering a blend of utility, entertainment, and community. As the EV landscape evolves, integrating these features into charging infrastructure will not only enhance user satisfaction but also maximize the value of investments in the growing electric future. What innovative features would you like to see at your next EV charging station? Share your thoughts and help drive the conversation forward!
Thank you to Marcus Allen, Tess Homeier, Joye Levendusky, and Cassie Preskenis for their work on the Oregon research project.
