The evolution of the service areas of the future

Service areas are undergoing a radical transformation, evolving from simple fueling points to multifunctional hubs that meet the new demands of modern mobility. This change is driven primarily by the rise of electric mobility and the increasing demand for diversified services.

Charging columns: the heart of the new mobility

With electric vehicle sales increasing to 23.5 percent of the European car market in 2023, charging stations are becoming a crucial element of service areas. By 2040, electric vehicles are expected to reach 300 million worldwide, making up 60 percent of new car sales. Service stations will therefore have to adapt to offer not only fast recharging, but also a range of alternative energy options such as hydrogen and biofuels.

A multi-service model

Stations of the future will no longer focus exclusively on selling fuel. Instead, they will turn into multipurpose centers that offer:

• Electric recharging: high and ultra-high power columns (above 100 kW) to ensure rapid recharging.
• innovative retail services: stores and cafeterias where customers can take advantage of waiting time to shop or eat meals.
• logistics services: pick-up points for parcels and partnerships with e-commerce platforms.
• Shared mobility spaces: car-sharing and car rental offerings.

Many stations have already implemented such services with excellent results, in Europe and around the world, testifying that the direction seems to be in that direction.

Technology and sustainability

Digitization will play a key role in this evolution. Smart technologies, such as traffic cameras and customer data analytics, will enable service area operators to better understand consumer needs and optimize the services they offer. In addition, the integration of photovoltaic systems may help make these facilities more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

Challenges and opportunities

However, this transition also presents significant challenges. Among them:

• The need for investment in the installation of columns and the conversion of existing facilities.
• oil companies will have to rethink their business model, shifting from a focus on traditional fuels to one that embraces alternative energies.
• it is crucial to ensure that less populated areas are not neglected in the establishment of the charging network, preventing motorists from having to travel long distances to refuel.

Conclusion

The service areas of the future envision themselves as vital centers for modern mobility, combining electric charging with a variety of services to meet consumer needs. With the rise of electric mobility and a growing focus on sustainability, these facilities will not only survive but thrive in an ever-changing environment.

In this scenario, Powy emerges as a key player in the expansion of charging infrastructure in Italy and Spain. As of 2021, Powy owns, develops, and operates a network of more than 2,000 charging points, installing and managing charging stations for hundreds of partners in the sectors: hospitality, parking, service areas, sports centers, and beyond. Among its solutions, Powy also installs ultra-high power charging (HPC) columns, ensuring ultra-fast recharging for motorists and new business opportunities for service stations.

If you would like to host a charging station at your facility: click here and contact us now to learn more!

About Powy

Powy is a company that owns, develops and operates Italy's leading independent network of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, with a growing presence in Spain as well.

Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.

Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.

Learn more: wpowy.energy