4 September, 2023

Optimising Your Commercial Space for EV Charging Stations

In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant traction, fuelled by the UK government placing a ban on the sale and production of gasoline vehicles in 2030. This shift towards EVs presents a unique opportunity for businesses to not only contribute to sustainability but also attract environmentally conscious customers. One effective way to do so is by optimising their commercial spaces with EV charging stations. Keep reading to explore their benefits as well as how to optimise your commercial space for EV charging stations.

The Benefits of EV Charging Stations for Businesses

Attracting Sustainably-Minded Customers

In today’s environmentally aware society, consumers are increasingly making choices that align with their values, supported by a consumer survey that revealed 84% of global respondents saying they are more inclined to buy from a brand whose values align with their own. When we look at sustainability, it’s been found that 44% of consumers are more likely to buy from a brand with a clear commitment to sustainability. Therefore, by offering EV charging stations, your business can tap into this growing segment and position itself as an environmentally aware and sustainable brand.

Extended Customer Dwell Time

EV charging takes time, which provides an excellent opportunity for customers to browse, shop, or dine while waiting. This extended dwell time can lead to increased sales and improved customer experiences for many businesses.

Competitive Edge

Installing charging stations can differentiate your business from competitors. It signals your commitment to sustainability and innovation, which can attract both new and loyal customers. In addition, many EV drivers will prioritise businesses that have EV charging availability, over those that don’t. Whether that be retail centres, restaurants, hotels or car parks.

Partnerships & Incentives

Many regions offer incentives and partnerships for businesses that support EV infrastructure development. Collaborating with local governments or utility companies could provide financial benefits or promotional opportunities. For example, the UK government provide several OZEV grant schemes to support businesses in helping improve the EV charge point infrastructure by providing grants of up to 75% off the upfront costs. 

Optimising Your Commercial Space for EV Charging Stations

There are therefore numerous benefits to installing EV charging stations and providing reliable EV charging services for your customers, staff and or, the public. But how do you go about optimising your commercial space for these charging stations? We’ve got 8 tips on how to get started. 

     1. Assess Your Charging Needs

To get started optimising your commercial space for EV charging stations, you need to determine how many, as well as the type of charging stations you need. Consider your locations, customer traffic and the average duration of stay. You may also want to offer a variety of different charging station types, such as a mix of rapid and standard charging options. 

     2. Strategic Placement

Your charging stations will need to be positioned in easy-to-access and visible areas. High-traffic zones close to entrances or waiting areas are ideal to maximise customer engagement.

     3. Parking Allocation

You will need to create a dedicated parking area for your EV drivers to use when charging their vehicles. These parking bays must be clearly marked so that no non-EV vehicles use them.

     4. Charging Station Aesthetics 

Consider the aesthetics of your EV charging stations before they’re installed. Think about the design of your commercial space and how you can integrate your charge points for a seamless aesthetic that keeps in with your current space. Charging stations that look smart, and sleek and that they’ve always been there, are sure ways to entice customers and indicate that you’re offering a premium charging service.

     5. User-Friendly Experience

Opt for charging stations that are user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and clear instructions. Difficult-to-use charge points can result in disgruntled customers and a bad reputation for you. Offering WiFi, comfortable seating, or nearby amenities can further enhance the user experience during charging sessions. Having a helpline phone number that users can ring if they require any help or encounter any issues is also a great way to provide a premium, user-friendly service. 

     6. Maintenance & Support

When optimising your space for EV charging stations, prepare for regular maintenance and inspection of your EV charging equipment to ensure a reliable service. Having a maintenance contract in place that provides regular inspections is key, as is providing a visible point of contact for users to report issues, demonstrating your commitment to customer satisfaction. 

In addition, a monitoring contract is a great way to ensure the ongoing health of your charge points. Not only can any issues be identified remotely, but you can be notified of any offline charge points, resulting in a more efficient and reliable service.

     7. Promotional Efforts

Optimise your commercial space by highlighting and promoting your EV charging service. Whether that is via your website, social media or other marketing materials, use these channels to attract potential EV-driving customers to your business. 

You may also want to offer a promotional offer to prospective customers to encourage them to visit your business and use your charging stations. Whether it’s 10 minutes of free charging with every purchase or 50% off charging fees when they dine with you. 

     8.Future-Proofing 

Technology is ever-evolving and therefore your charging stations and their relevant software, as well as your overall charging service must be up to date with the latest industry standards and compatible with the latest EV models. 

Conclusion

From attracting environmentally conscious customers to gaining a competitive edge and contributing to the green movement, the advantages of installing EV charging stations in your commercial space are significant and can be a strategic move to heightening your brand image. 

By carefully assessing your charging needs, strategically placing stations, and creating a user-friendly experience, you can optimise your commercial space for EV charging stations whilst positioning your business at the forefront of sustainability and innovation.

Commercial EV Charging with eFaraday 

At eFaraday we are specialists in commercial EV charging and provide a total all-in-one solution. From initial installation to a cloud-based management app to our innovative 24/7 monitoring and maintenance package, we provide you with everything you need to offer a reliable, easy-to-use and premium EV charge experience. 

Want to know more? Get in touch for a free quote. Call us on 0330 002 1154 or contact us online here.