There are dozens of various oil companies who have their own gas stations (subsidized by the oil industry?). Why don’t we see more electric companies building their own charging networks as well?
So the reality is this is a money losing business and will be for years to come.
Electric utilities are pretty local and this only really makes sense as a large system.
The problem is that it's enough time to walk to the restaurant next door rather than spending money at the gas station store.
I'm sure somebody will figure it out. Probably something like the food court model rather than current gas stations which are basically convenience stores.
1. Fast charging in every spot;
2. Espresso and high-margin dessert-in-a-cup drinks served right to your vehicle;
3. Free high-speed unlimited WiFi for customers.
Why get out of your car to walk to the restaurant next door? Connect to the free WiFi, turn on the charging, and place your order.
Then relax in your car and leave a low-effort comment on Hacker News.
What an "interesting" combination of high tech and low tech...
We stop sometimes in Plymouth mass for a 20 minute break/ charge. It’s a good idea.
Supermarkets are another decent source of charging.
While this is basically true, it's not that terrible. A pure gas station operates on about the same profit margin as a grocery store. Both fairly thin, but both are successful businesses.