Circle K replaces its fuel station with EV Fast Charging hub in Norway

Circle K is participating in a large-scale development of fast chargers both in and outside Norway.

Essentially, quick chargers come in addition to traditional fuel pumps, but Circle K has also replaced fuel pumps with fast chargers at its Alexander Kiellands Plass fuel station in Oslo.

“We’re in a new era. It is a historic milestone that the gas station chains has replaced fuel pumps with quick chargers. We congratulate Circle K for investing in electric cars,” said Christina Bu, Secretary General of the Norwegian Electric Vehicle Association.

The new chargers at Alexander Kiellands Plass are a response to the strong demand for fast chargers in and outside the cities. This is where the growth in the number of electric motorists is best witnessed.

“When our customers need change, we also have to change. We have initiated a comprehensive development of fast chargers and started where the need is greatest. Our ambition is to offer the best charging experience along the busiest roads in Norway and around the largest cities. We do this with our own chargers and in partnership with IONITY, Tesla and Green contact,” said Håkon Stiksrud, Director of E-mobility at Circle K.

“We are running a programme to double the number of stations which offer charging, quadruple the number of chargers and double the charging speeds. We are now passing 350 fast charger mark in Norway, so we are well on track to reach the target of 500 chargers by the summer of 2020. At the same time, we expect such an increase in the number of electric carss. Hence we are looking for better and more predictable framework conditions to further increase supply,” pointed out Stiksrud.

Circle K has the largest network of energy stations with charging and fuel supply in Norway. The company is now investing significantly in upgrades with a broader and healthier food offering, stores with spacious living areas and more seating, to give both charging customers and other customers a better break when they need replenishment.

“Unlike fuel customers, EV customers can charge the car at home. If they visit us frequently, it is about the total experience; that we are in the right place with the right capacity, plenty of space, good payment solutions and digital tools that make it easier for customers. Good food, clean toilets and not least nice people are just as important to electric motorists as everyone else,” Stiksrud emphasised.