BP has launched its first dedicated EV charging and convenience format to cater to the increasing number of people driving electric cars.
Traditional fuels have been removed from the site at Cromwell Road on the A4 in Hammersmith, London. They have been replaced by five ultra-fast bp pulse 300kW chargers, each capable of charging two cars simultaneously, along with a redesigned convenience store that has an upgraded Wild Bean cafe and M&S Food offer.
BP stated that the combined food, drink and convenience offer reflects the increase in drivers’ expectations of services they want to access while their car is charging. The in-store and outside design is said to enhance the customer experience by optimising the layout with an open and inviting environment and product offerings, targeting customers who want food-for-now.
“The launch of our Cromwell Road EV convenience hub is a significant milestone in how we’re evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of EV drivers in the capital and beyond,” said Richard Bartlett, SVP for bp pulse and mobility & convenience, Europe.
“This new format site is not just about providing fast, reliable charging where drivers need it but also delivering an outstanding retail experience, in a strategic location connecting central London with Heathrow and the west of England.”
NAM Implications:
- According to BP, their ultra-fast bp pulse 300kW chargers add around 100 miles of range to an electric vehicle in approximately 15 minutes.
- Meaning that as EVs replace petrol cars, the whole ‘culture’ of garage forecourts will change.
- i.e. Filling-time difference between electric and petrol, 15 mins vs 5 mins…
- …meaning EV drivers will be on site three times as long…
- …with time for a ‘proper’ shop and possibly a sit-down snack.
- (i.e. a need for a detailed space-management/productivity/profitability analysis if they really become popular…)
