As the world continues to embrace electric vehicles, businesses are looking for ways to capitalize on this trend. One surprising advantage that has emerged is the benefit of longer EV charging times for supermarkets and similar businesses. This might seem counterintuitive at first, but let’s delve into why this is the case.
The Connection Between Charging Speed and Customer Dwell Time
Electric vehicle charging stations, particularly DC fast chargers, come in various speeds and configurations. For instance, a 150kW charger can provide 200 miles of range in under 30 minutes, while a 50kW charger might take over 40 minutes to deliver the same range. This charging duration is known as “dwell time.”
Interestingly, slower charging speeds result in longer dwell times. While this might not be ideal for highway rest stops where drivers want to get back on the road as quickly as possible, it’s a different story for supermarkets. Here, longer dwell times can actually be beneficial.
Increased Shopping Time Equals Increased Revenue
When customers spend more time at the charging station, they also spend more time in the supermarket. This increased dwell time gives customers more opportunities to browse the aisles, discover new products, and ultimately make more purchases.
Moreover, studies have shown that EV drivers typically have higher incomes than average and thus higher spending potential. In fact, one survey found that EV drivers spent about $1 a minute shopping while their EVs charged. This means that a customer could spend $40 or more while waiting for their vehicle to charge, potentially making purchases they wouldn’t have otherwise.
Cost-Effective Charging Solutions
Another advantage of longer charging times comes in the form of lower installation costs. Lower-speed DC fast chargers are typically less expensive to install than their high-power counterparts. For example, a standalone 50-75kW charger can be a cost-effective solution that doesn’t require any additional equipment and can easily fit in tight spaces in supermarket parking lots. Plus, these chargers can be upgraded over time to meet increasing customer demand.
Incentives for Installing Chargers
There are numerous incentives available for businesses that install EV chargers. From rebates and tax breaks in the United States and Europe to grants in the United Kingdom, these incentives can help offset the cost of installation, making it a more cost-effective solution for businesses.
Choosing the Right Charger for Your Supermarket
If you’re considering installing EV chargers at your supermarket, it’s essential to choose the right charger to meet your needs. While faster chargers might seem like the obvious choice, the benefits of longer dwell times should not be overlooked. By providing your customers with more time to shop while their vehicle charges, you can potentially increase sales and revenue.
SETEC POWER is an expert in this field, and our UL-certified equipment provides assurance for the growth of your business. Please contact us immediately.
