Convenience, amenities and reliability are top priorities for electric vehicle (EV) drivers choosing where to charge, and that puts convenience stores in a strong position, according to a new survey from equipment and technology provider Gilbarco Veeder-Root.
The findings land just as a critical federal funding deadline approaches. By Sept. 10, states must submit applications for the next round of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program—a $5 billion initiative offering to cover up to 80% of the cost to install direct current (DC) fast chargers.
In August, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced revised NEVI guidance, following a months-long program pause under the Trump administration. The updated rules streamline approvals, expand state-level flexibility and eliminate several planning and consultation requirements. These changes could make it easier for fuel and convenience retailers to secure funding and begin development.
Fuel retailers have been among the largest recipients of NEVI funding to date, and the new guidance could accelerate charger deployment across the c-store channel.
Gilbarco’s survey, conducted among 5,500 battery-electric and hybrid vehicle drivers across the United States and Europe, reveals key insights for the c-store industry. Nearly one-third (30%) of U.S. respondents cited convenience as the top factor in deciding where to charge—a figure comparable to Europe’s 40%, where EV adoption is more advanced.
Importantly for c-stores, most U.S. drivers (79%) said they would pay at least 33% more to charge if the station was along their route, highlighting the strategic value of near-highway locations. Half of respondents would avoid chargers that require a detour of more than 20 minutes.
Nearly one-third (31%) of American drivers would avoid locations with only one charger, and 27% want EV charging integrated into loyalty programs. A majority (79%) said they would drive more than 10 minutes to find the right mix of amenities.
“Forecourts have a competitive advantage, with locations close to major routes and the drivers' need to rest, refresh and re-connect while they’re plugged in,” said Merrick Glass, president of Konect eMobility at Greensboro, North Carolina-based Gilbarco Veeder-Root.
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