Retailers can boost earnings through optimized charging strategies, and Kempower provides the key solutions for this endeavor.

In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), retailers are finding innovative ways to attract new customers and enhance the user experience. One such solution is investing in electric vehicle charging stations.

According to Oscar Sánchez, Global Marketing Manager for Retail at Kempower, this strategy offers retailers visibility, drawing in EV drivers who are increasingly opting for public charging points over private ones. However, it's important to note that the demand for public charging at retail locations is expected to grow significantly, becoming one of the largest segments by 2030.

Sánchez suggests that retailers, such as fast food chains and restaurants, should consider starting with low-power chargers and multiple stations. This approach aligns the expected charging time with the duration that users typically spend inside the establishment. Moreover, Kempower's satellites are small and can be placed in any location without losing space.

One key factor is ensuring an adequate number of sockets to avoid creating queues and lengthening waiting times. For instance, a slow 22-kilowatt charger might not be utilised efficiently, with most cars using 11 or even less kilowatts. This means that 20 minutes of charging with a slow AC charger would only allow for a short driving distance (16-20 kilometers).

Offering the charging service also improves the user experience, making retail establishments more appealing to EV drivers. Furthermore, retailers can promote their services by being marked on major online and in-vehicle navigation systems, such as Kempower chargers which are now visible on all major navigation systems.

In the initial stages, the use of public charging stations may be low. However, as batteries continue to get bigger, AC charging becomes less convenient. This is why a distributed charging system, which allows the power unit to be installed efficiently without affecting traffic or removing parking spaces, is a practical solution.

Moreover, marketing other services, not just energy, can generate income in a different way. For example, retailers can promote their food, drinks, or other offerings while customers are waiting for their vehicles to charge.

In Germany, the companies expected to install the most public charging stations for electric cars by 2030 are EnBW, aiming to provide about 20,000 to 30,000 ultra-fast charging points nationwide. EnBW plans to cover a relevant share of the total expected 120,000 to 150,000 fast charging points needed by 2030, making it the market leader with the largest fast charging network in Germany.

In conclusion, investing in electric vehicle charging offers retailers a unique opportunity to attract new customers, improve the user experience, and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving EV market.