New solution helps fuel stations adjust to EV era

Australian service stations now have the option of transforming into ‘multi-fuel convenience hubs’, thanks to a new offering launched by Gilbarco Veeder-Root (GVR), a Vontier company specialising in retail and commercial fuelling and convenience technology.

The ‘Konect’ service will supply end-to-end electric vehicle charging ecosystems, enabling traditional Australian service stations to adapt to an era where a combination of fuels will coexist. With the number of service stations in Australia having decreased from 25,000 in the 1970s to approximately 7000 today, GVR describes the EV boom as a golden opportunity for fuel retailers to futureproof their business. According to Boston Consulting Group, 80% of the current fuel retail network will be unprofitable by 2035.

“Australia is a market brimming with innovation, passion for progress, and favourable conditions primed to drive positive growth in electric vehicle take-up in the years to come,” said Om Shankar, Vice President & General Manager, Konect. “However, fuel retailers need the right tools to make that growth a reality — and, critically, to make the enterprise a profitable and sustainable one for them.”

For Australia to achieve its climate goals, EV market share must reach 30% by the end of the decade. The country’s transition to electrified mobility has shown encouraging signs in recent years, with EV share reaching nearly 10% in 2024.

Konect’s EV charging ecosystem is designed specifically for the forecourt environment, allowing fuel retailers to deploy their own robust infrastructure. This turnkey solution includes support with site selection and funding applications, installation and integration onsite, sales and energy management systems, and comprehensive technical support utilising GVR’s field team.

In launching the new service, GVR pointed to its 96 years of operational experience in Australia and 60% market share in the nation’s fuel technology sector.

“The energy landscape is evolving, and fuel retailers require a trusted partner to navigate the transition to EV charging infrastructure,” Shankar said.

Image caption: Artist’s impression of the new Konect service. Image courtesy of Gilbarco Veeder-Root.