The Role of Amenities in Attracting EV Drivers to Public Charging Sites

The rapid shift to electric vehicles is redefining what drivers expect from public charging. At StrategEV we believe that public charging sites that integrate thoughtful amenities and deliver the best overall driver experience will achieve the highest return on investment and long-term value.

According to Plug In America’s 2025 EV Driver Survey, 92 percent of respondents are likely or very likely to choose an EV for their next vehicle, signaling growing confidence in the market. Yet only 46 percent reported being satisfied with the reliability of public charging. This marks improvement but still highlights a major opportunity. Drivers are ready for electrification, but they expect more: better reliability, cleaner facilities, and environments that feel safe, welcoming, and convenient.

These findings point to a simple truth. The next generation of charging success will belong to sites that think beyond hardware. Amenities, design, and the overall user experience can turn a charging stop into a repeat destination and a profitable asset.

1. Essentials, Safety, Comfort, and Accessibility

Ease of Navigation
Drivers expect a smooth and intuitive experience finding, accessing, and plugging in. Clear signage, well-placed chargers, and integration with navigation apps reduce friction and frustration.

Lighting and Cleanliness
A clean, well-lit environment promotes trust and safety. For properties that get this right, the reward goes beyond user satisfaction. Lighting, design, and cleanliness together reinforce brand identity and professionalism. In an emerging and competitive market, consistency and attention to detail can become defining traits that set a property apart.

Sense of Place
The best sites do not feel like afterthoughts tucked behind buildings or dumpsters. They are visible, accessible, and inviting. Creating that sense of place through intentional design, good lighting, landscaping, and signage sets the stage for a positive experience and repeat visits.

2. Convenience, Food, Refreshments, and Restrooms

A growing share of drivers embrace public, on-the-road charging as a short break rather than a wait. Surveys show that many EV drivers use their time at public charging stations to grab food, refreshments, or access nearby amenities. This presents a clear opportunity for property owners.

Strategically placing chargers near cafes, convenience stores, or restrooms makes charging stops more appealing. For drivers, it is about comfort and convenience. For businesses, it is about engagement and satisfaction.

Ways amenities add value:

• More dwell time means higher in-store sales
• On-site amenities create differentiation and loyalty
• Partnerships between retailers and charging providers enhance the overall user experience and increase revenue for both

At StrategEV, we help clients identify opportunities to align amenities, partnerships, and site-planning practices that improve user satisfaction and unlock new revenue potential.

3. Advanced Features, Weather Protection, Connectivity, and Workspace

As the EV market grows, drivers increasingly seek charging locations that match the convenience of their daily routines. Amenities that provide comfort and functionality can elevate a site from simple infrastructure to a preferred stop.

Weather Protection
Whether it is a canopy for shade or cover from rain, shelter enhances comfort and creates a premium feel. It also protects equipment and extends its lifespan, an often-overlooked factor in long-term ROI.

Connectivity and Shared Workspace
Many EV drivers, especially remote professionals, rideshare operators, and fleet users, use charging time to stay connected or get work done. Offering WiFi, seating, or even small shared work areas turns downtime into productive time. This keeps drivers on-site longer and encourages repeat visits.

Community Feel
Charging sites that feel like destinations rather than utilities stand out. Simple additions such as benches, landscaping, and branded signage create a sense of community and familiarity that keeps drivers returning.

4. The Flip Side, When Charging Infrastructure Becomes the Amenity

In many cases, the charging infrastructure itself delivers the amenity. For shopping centers, restaurants, workplaces, and multifamily developments, EV charging is becoming a competitive differentiator.

• Retail Centers benefit from increased dwell time and larger secondary purchases
• Multifamily Properties attract and retain tenants who prioritize access to EV charging
• Workplaces and Hospitality locations signal sustainability leadership and create a better experience for employees and guests

Positioning EV charging as a value-added amenity, not simply a compliance requirement, strengthens brand image, increases traffic, and unlocks new revenue opportunities.

5. From Compliance to Competitive Advantage

Installing chargers to meet regulations or capture incentives is only the beginning. The real opportunity is thoughtful design focused on the user experience.

While we do see reliability is improving, drivers still want more welcoming and convenient environments. Sites that combine robust hardware with amenities and hospitality-driven design will earn the loyalty of EV drivers and maximize return on investment.

At StrategEV we help clients design and execute charging programs that go beyond compliance, including:

• Strategic location and equipment selection
• Integration of amenities and site layout
• Vendor and partnership coordination
• ROI modeling and business case development

If you manage a property and want to transform your EV charging into a strategic asset, schedule a consultation with StrategEV to explore how amenities can enhance performance and profitability.

Conclusion

Amenities matter. They bridge the gap between infrastructure and experience, turning EV charging from a requirement into a revenue driver. Sites that combine safety, cleanliness, intuitive navigation, food and beverage options, weather protection, connectivity, and thoughtful design create the type of experience that drivers value and return to.

As EV adoption accelerates, the strongest opportunities sit with property owners and developers who think holistically about the charging experience. At StrategEV we help clients build charging sites that deliver both performance and satisfaction. Schedule a consultation with StrategEV today and let’s design the next generation of charging destinations together.