---
title: How Roadside EV Charging Converts Passersby Into Customers
description: Understanding the power of roadside EV charging. How offering EV chargepoints can turn casual drivers into potential customers and increase profits.
image: https://ev-blog.sms-plc.com/hubfs/EV%20parking%20bay%20-%20blog.jpg
---

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 Search for:

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[Contact](https://www.sms-plc.com/contact/)

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### About Us

We are changing how businesses and consumers use energy for the better, helping achieve a greener, sustainable, and more affordable energy system for everyone.

- [Introduction](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/introduction/)
- [Vision and Values](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)
- [Leadership](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/leadership/)
- [Our Customers](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/our-customers/)
- [Accreditations](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)
- [Case Studies](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/case-studies/)

[![Dandelions](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)

##### [Vision and Values](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)

 Our vision and values define who we are; helping us achieve our purpose-led objectives that put customers, community, and the environment at the heart of what we do. 

[Vision and Values](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)

[![image showing four regulatory bodies logos](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)

##### [Accreditations](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)

 We strive for excellence in every facet of our business, reflected by the range of best-practice certifications that underline our commitments to quality, safety, and sustainability. 

[Accreditations](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/introduction/)

 An independent energy infrastructure and solutions provider, we work uniquely with stakeholders across the full spectrum of energy generation, supply, and consumption. 

[Introduction](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/introduction/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)

 Our vision and values define who we are, helping us realise purpose-led objectives that put customers, community, and the environment at the heart of what we do. 

[Vision and Values](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/vision-and-values/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/leadership/)

 Meet the senior management and leadership team that drives SMS forward – nurturing around them the talent, knowledge and skills that provide the fundamental platform for our services. 

[Leadership](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/leadership/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/our-customers/)

 The enduring relationships we enjoy with our clients and partners are testament to our commitment to providing sustainable, innovative, and forward-thinking energy solutions. 

[Our Customers](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/our-customers/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)

 We strive for excellence in every facet of our business, reflected by the range of best-practice certifications that underline our commitments to quality, safety, and sustainability. 

[See our Accreditations](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/accreditations/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/case-studies/)

 Having served the UK utility industry, industrial & commercial, and public sectors for more than 25 years, our case studies highlight our leading role in the ongoing energy transition. 

[Case Studies](https://www.sms-plc.com/about-us/case-studies/)

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### Solutions

 We provide the complete energy solution. From energy infrastructure that enables more sustainable homes and businesses, to the integrated energy management and project delivery critical for carbon reduction.

- [Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/overview/)
- [EV Charging](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)
- [Infrastructure](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/overview)
- [Metering](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/)
- [Data](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/overview)
- [Energy Services](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/overview/)
- [Residential](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/solopower/)
- [Flexibility](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/flexigrid/)

[![electricity area](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)

##### [Energy Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)

 We independently develop, own and operate grid-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) that serve a greener, resilient, and more flexible National Grid. 

[Energy Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)

[![Charging points](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)

##### [EV Charging](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)

 Whether for workplaces or fleets, on-street and kerbside, retail or destination customers, we offer a tailored end-to-end EV charging service that puts your needs in the driver's seat. 

[EV Charging Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/overview/)

We are changing how businesses and consumers use energy for the better; helping achieve a greener, more sustainable energy system for everyone.

[Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/overview/)

- [EV Charging Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)
- [Public (Developers & Landowners)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/rapid-ev-charging/)
- [Retail, Leisure and Hospitality](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-charging-stations-for-business/)
- [Fleet](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-fleet-charging-solutions/)
- [Workplace](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/workplace-ev-charging/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)

 We design and deliver electric vehicle infrastructure to suit your commercial and environmental goals, whilst always prioritising the charging experience of your customers and end users. 

[EV Charging Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/rapid-ev-charging/)

 We partner with commercial property developers and landowners to design, deploy and manage EV charge point infrastructure, building a dependable and convenient rapid charging network. 

[Public (Developers & Landowners)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/rapid-ev-charging/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-charging-stations-for-business/)

 We provide fit-for-purpose EV charge point solutions that prioritise customer experience and generate additional revenue opportunities for retail, leisure and hospitality businesses. 

[Retail, Leisure and Hospitality](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-charging-stations-for-business/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-fleet-charging-solutions/)

 Our metering innovation combined with our EV fleet charging solutions enables fleet managers to take a whole new level of control, unlocking benefits for both business and drivers. 

[Fleet](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/ev-fleet-charging-solutions/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/workplace-ev-charging/)

 We work with businesses to install, manage and operate charging solutions for employees and visitors, whilst integrating EV into your company’s sustainability strategy. 

[Workplace](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/workplace-ev-charging/)

- [Infrastructure Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/overview/)
- [Energy Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)
- [Multi-Utility](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/multi-utility/)
- [Telecoms Networks](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/telecoms/)

[![electrical utility poles](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/overview/)

 Our design, engineering, and project management experts deliver the critical utility infrastructure that keeps our homes and businesses sustainably powered. 

[Infrastructure Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/overview/)

[![battery storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)

 We independently develop, own and operate grid-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) that serve a greener, resilient, and more flexible National Grid. 

[Energy Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/energy-storage/)

[![houses in front of a construction site](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/multi-utility/)

 Our expert multi-utility team provides a fully-managed service to ensure the successful and timely installation of electricity, gas, and water infrastructure to your sites. 

[Multi-Utility](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/multi-utility/)

[![a utility pole](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/telecoms/)

 We are a specialist, end-to-end power management partner for the UK telecoms industry, from feasibility studies and wayleaves, through to grid connection and metering services. 

[Telecoms Networks](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/infrastructure/telecoms/)

- [Metering Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/)
- [Energy Suppliers](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/energy-supplier/)
- [Business](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/business/)
- [Household: Smart Meters](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)
- [Test Centre](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/test-centre/)
- [Training Academy](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/training-academy/)

[![electrician fixing a meter](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/)

 Through our integrated metering solutions, we manage over 4 million assets on behalf of energy suppliers and business customers, covering the industrial, commercial, and domestic markets. 

[Metering Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/)

[![electrician fixing meter](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/energy-supplier/)

 As an accredited meter asset provider (MAP), operator (MOP), manager (MAM), we deliver the expert solutions that energy suppliers need to generate value and meet mandated rollout targets. 

[Energy Suppliers](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/energy-supplier/)

[![electrician using screwdriver on wires](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/business/)

 We partner directly with business energy users and third party intermediaries (TPIs), providing the expert metering services required to reduce consumption, costs, and carbon emissions. 

[Business](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/business/)

[![Family in kitchen](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)

 Are you a homeowner or tenant looking for more information on smart meters? Get the lowdown on how your smart meter can help cut energy bills and contribute to a greener world. 

[Household: Smart Meters](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)

[![SMS electrician and meter](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/test-centre/)

 Our smart meter lab facility provides a bank of 200+ live meters for energy suppliers and other industry partners, providing assurance, device combination proving, and over-the-air (OTA) testing. 

[Test Centre](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/test-centre/)

[![SMS worker and van](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/training-academy/)

 Our national dual fuel academy delivers accredited gas and electric training and assessment for professionals looking to gain qualifications or upskill in the domestic and commercial sectors. 

[Training Academy](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/training-academy/)

- [Data Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/overview/)
- [Electric Data](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/electricity/)
- [Gas Data](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/gas/)
- [Analytics](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/smartvision/)

[![green lights](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/overview/)

 Industry-leading data collection, settlement and software solutions for gas and electricity supplies help our customers improve insight and efficiencies and enable greater energy sustainability. 

[Data Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/overview/)

[![electricity meters](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/electricity/)

 We cover every aspect of your half-hourly (HH) and non-half-hourly (NHH) electricity data needs, from meter operation (MOP) to data collection (DC) through to ongoing energy management. 

[Electric Data](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/electricity/)

[![gas pipes with sunset](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/gas/)

Our gas solutions provide suppliers and business consumers with the data required to cut operational costs and carbon emissions.

[Gas Data](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/gas/)

[![monitoring a meter on a computer screen](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/smartvision/)

 Our intelligent energy management platform, SmartVision, gives you clear visibility of your entire energy portfolio, helping turn your data into energy saving insights. 

[Analytics](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/data/smartvision/)

- [Energy Services Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/overview)
- [Consultancy](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/consultancy/)
- [Funding & Delivery](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/funding-delivery/)
- [Bureau & Optimisation](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/optimisation/)

[![solar panel field](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/overview)

 A strategic partner for carbon reduction, we take energy projects from concept to completion and help organisations realise their sustainability goals. 

[Energy Services Overview](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/overview)

[![men working at computers](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/consultancy/)

 We’re experts in providing strategic, data-driven energy advice that rationalises consumption and sets your organisation on the most suitable path to carbon reduction. 

[Consultancy](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/consultancy/)

[![Installing solar panel](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/funding-delivery/)

 We remove the obstacles of investing in carbon reduction technologies, providing the asset funding and engineering expertise to design, install and deliver your new energy systems. 

[Funding & Delivery](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/funding-delivery/)

[![statistical graph on a tablet](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/optimisation/)

 Our range of energy bureau and optimisation solutions drive optimum value from your energy portfolio, helping you to lower costs, manage market risks, and enhance efficiency. 

[Bureau & Optimisation](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/energy-services/optimisation/)

- [Domestic EV Charging](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/domestic-ev-charging/)
- [Solopower: Solar + Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/solopower/)
- [Smart Meters](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/domestic-ev-charging/)

Providing accredited, nationwide installation of household EV charge points for homeowners, tenants, and landlords.

[Domestic EV Charging](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/domestic-ev-charging/)

[![houses with solar panels](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/solopower/)

 The unique turnkey service that designs, installs, and operates solar PV generation and battery storage projects at scale for new and existing social housing stocks. 

[Solopower: Solar + Storage](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/residential/solopower/)

[![Family in kitchen](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)

 Are you a homeowner or tenant looking for more information on smart meters? Get the lowdown on how your smart meter can help cut energy bills and contribute to a greener world. 

[Smart Meters](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/metering/household-smart-meters/)

- [FlexiGrid](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/flexigrid/)
- [Demand Flexibility Service](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/demand-flexibility-service/)

[![monitoring statistics on a computer](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/flexigrid/)

 The cloud-based software that communicates with, monitors and controls a range of distributed energy resources (DERs) to create smart, flexible local energy systems. 

[FlexiGrid](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/flexigrid/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/demand-flexibility-service/)

 Delivering an end-to-end smart data and aggregation solution that enables suppliers and energy technology businesses to participate in National Grid ESO's Demand Flexibility Service. 

[Demand Flexibility Service](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/flexibility/demand-flexibility-service/)

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### Sustainability

 We are committed to improving our impacts on the environment, our communities, and wider society around us through responsible operations and best-practice corporate governance.

- [Sustainability](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/overview)
- [Net Zero](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)
- [ESG Ratings](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/esg-ratings/)

[![happy child playing](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/)

##### [Sustainability](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/)

 Our Sustainability Report provides detailed disclosure on the practical steps we are taking to progress Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibilities within our business. 

[Sustainability](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/)

[![fields](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)

##### [Net Zero](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)

We’re committed to achieving carbon neutrality across our organisation by the end of this decade, steered by our Net Zero 2030 roadmap.

[Net Zero](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/overview)

Browse our annual Sustainability Report to find out more about our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy.

[Sustainability](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/overview)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)

Find out more about our efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions across our business by the year 2030.

[Net Zero](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/net-zero/)

[![](https://www.sms-plc.com/app/themes/sms/dist/images/1x1.png?id=999fd67ab1a90e69ce90)](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/esg-ratings/)

We work with ratings agencies and utilise ESG reporting standards and frameworks to communicate and benchmark our performance.

[ESG Ratings](https://www.sms-plc.com/sustainability/esg-ratings/)

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### Investors

 Welcome to our investor hub, where you can find our reporting, results, regulatory news, and all other shareholder resources and key corporate information in one place.

- [Investment Case](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/investment-case/)
- [Regulatory News](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/regulatory-news/)
- [Results, Reports & Presentations](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/results-reports-presentations/)
- [Share Price and Tools](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/share-price-and-tools/)
- [Shareholder Information](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/shareholder-information/)
- [Capital Markets Day](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/capital-markets-day/)
- [AIM Rule 26](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/aim-rule-26/)
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SMS is perfectly positioned to maximise the opportunities available from Carbon Reduction (CaRe) assets whilst enhancing shareholder value.

[Investment Case](https://www.sms-plc.com/investors/investment-case/)

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Download our Annual Report 2022 to read more about our business strategy, financial performance and corporate governance.

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5 Dec 2023

# How Roadside EV Charging Can Convert Passersby Into Customers

[SMS](https://ev-blog.sms-plc.com/author/sms)

![](https://ev-blog.sms-plc.com/hubfs/EV%20parking%20bay%20-%20blog.jpg)

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Research by SMS found that [71% of UK EV drivers](https://info.sms-plc.com/ev-public-charging-solutions-whitepaper) say that past experiences influenced their decision about whether to charge at a motorway service station or not. It highlights the need for developers and landlords to install accessible, reliable, and easy-to-use roadside EV charging facilities. Every site is different, requiring a unique solution for that particular location. So, how can you get roadside EV charging right and convert passersby into customers?

In this article, you’ll learn how to deliver attractive EV charging for EV drivers in a roadside location. Also, why working with a [charge point operator (CPO)](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/rapid-ev-charging/) can help you install the proper EV charging at your roadside business.

## The Convenience Factor is Everything for EV Drivers

The most important thing to remember is that EV drivers seek convenience. Fueling the car is necessary, but the convenience factor is the icing on the cake. If an EV driver decides to go to your EV charging station, these factors will come into play:

- It needs to be close to the main road or motorway. This proximity means that it is easy to access. 
- It must be easily visible or signposted so that drivers know where they are going before they flick the indicator and turn off the road. 
- It needs to be welcoming. Providing amenities such as food or drink makes the location more convenient allowing the driver to have a break whilst they charge.

Whilst charging part way through a journey at the roadside differs from destination charging, it’s increasing in demand. Traditional petrol forecourt stations (PFS) already recognise that change is coming. Shell recently unveiled plans to create “[the gas station of the future](https://www.mensjournal.com/news/shell-ev-charging-gas-station-london)”. They aim to develop electric-only fuelling stations to cater to the EV market. It's worth noting when global giants take such steps in their business.

## Roadside EV Charging: How to Capture the Attention of EV Drivers

Getting into an EV driver's mind can help create your EV charging site. While EV drivers like the convenience of charging at home, it is sadly not an option for everybody. Roadside EV charging helps to fill in the gaps. It is critical to work with an experienced and knowledgeable CPO to plan your site from design to finish.

You can find out more about the work we do with property developers and landowners by [downloading our FREE guide](https://info.sms-plc.com/ev-public-charging-solutions-whitepaper).

## The Role of Visible EV Charging Infrastructure

Ultimately when an EV driver goes to a charging station, they need to feel safe and be confident that chargers are available and working. Reducing charging anxiety for drivers will help to deliver a much better user experience.

If your charging site can meet all of these expectations, you have a much better chance of those customers coming back again and again. Happy customers, especially happy EV drivers, can’t wait to tell other users of their positive experiences. Pick the right CPO to deliver the right solution for you, and you’ll have an extremely busy location.

### How To Make Your EV Charging Site Visible

Here are some areas you must consider to make your site visible to passersby:

- Ensure the site is well lit so people feel safe and comfortable when using the location. 
- Make sure lighting is sympathetic to your surroundings, your local community doesn’t want high levels of light pollution.
- Good quality signage from the roadside, let drivers know clearly that there is a charging site close by.
- If chargers aren’t immediately visible on entry to your site, provide clear directional signage from the entrance.
- Cleanliness, make sure that between you and the CPO the site is kept clean and tidy, a well-kept site is a welcoming site.
- Accessibility, provide a generous amount of space for parking, locations should provide extra wide bays for those with mobility needs.

Whilst this may feel like common sense, not all sites have been designed with the above in mind. Safe, secure, and accessible locations are essential factors when designing. Remember, unlike a PFS, most EV charging stations aren’t manned. Sites are being rated by drivers based on these criteria, led by an organisation called [ChargeSafe](https://www.chargesafe.uk/) which undertakes (detailed) nationwide assessments of EV charging locations (140+ points). SMS is an accredited member of ChargeSafe making sure that we prioritise drivers' security and accessibility needs.

### Creating an Attractive Site For EV Drivers

It’s not simply a case of installing high-powered charging into a car park to attract EV drivers who need to charge on route. Drivers will take regular breaks when driving long distances. Providing a seamless customer journey with charging being just one part is critical to success. Whether you are a landowner or developer, making sure you have the right amenities to complement the site can be the difference between success and failure. That’s why [partnering with the right CPO](https://ev-blog.sms-plc.com/ev-roadside-charging) will help you to create an attractive, profitable site.

## Boosting Customer Experience for EV Drivers

For customers to keep coming back, you must ensure that you make charging as easy as ABC. Can they easily find your site? Can they find the chargers? Is it easy to park a car in the bay? Are the chargers located conveniently to plug a car in? How easy is it to make payment, and can they get something to eat and drink once the car is charging? Getting this right means you’ll have a busy location and more repeat customers.

### The Importance of Using User-Friendly Charging Stations

For all EV drivers, the site must be simple to use. If it isn’t and they become frustrated, they will look for another place to charge their car. Additionally, they’ll tell others about their bad experience, and you’ll soon find you have a site that people try to avoid. Pick the right CPO to work with and they’ll ensure you have the following:

- Accessible charging bays that are inclusive for all.
- Simple and easy payment options.
- The cables are easy to use and plugin.
- There are simple on screen instructions.
- You feel safe in the car park, even in the evening.

### The Role of Tech in Improving Customer Experience

The technology in the EV charging industry is fast evolving. Whether that is faster charging, alternative ways to pay, improved regulations, higher standards, or greater choice. EV charging is no longer as niche as it once was. We’ve seen new regulations to ensure that contactless payment is mandatory for all public EV charging (on chargers rated above 8kW). Additionally, apps can also be hugely beneficial for drivers, whether helping fleets pay for operational vehicles, accessing discounted charging rates through a membership scheme, or providing journey planning that helps you find the nearest charging location and match charging around your travel.

## Building Loyalty and Repeat Business

You want your site to be busy, not just when it opens, but throughout the duration of its operation. Whilst you may see a spike in activity when the site is new, making sure it stays popular is crucial. You’ll be making a long-term commitment with a CPO, and you’ll want to be reassured that they’ll be working with you to ensure it is successful. Co-locating charging with convenient amenities, serving food and drink or a drive-thru can maximise the opportunity as CPOs and retailers can work together to create incentives and loyalty schemes to bring customers back.

### Using Loyalty Programs

Repeat business can deliver long-term profitability for your EV charging site. You might already have loyalty and reward schemes in place integrating EV charging into your existing loyalty programs will be of huge benefit to EV drivers, making the use of chargers on your site, hassle-free. If you haven’t, considered creating a loyalty program for your EV customers, at SMS, we can offer integrating charging into your scheme…

## How to Start Your Roadside EV Charging Business

[Installing the right public EV charging points](https://ev-blog.sms-plc.com/how-to-use-public-ev-chargers) is crucial. Likewise, visibility and accessibility are also essential factors. On top of all this, though, the most important thing to consider is the convenience for EV drivers. Get it right, and you will have repeat business now and increased revenue over time.

At SMS, our strong covenants assure property developers and landowners that they can work with us for the long term. Using our core business model of funding and operating multiple energy assets, we keep running costs down and maximise revenue. We handle everything for you, from beginning to end, so you make more money without any hassle.

[Get in touch now](https://info.sms-plc.com/contact) to learn more about installing roadside EV charging in your location or to find out more [visit our website](https://www.sms-plc.com/solutions/ev-charging-solutions/rapid-ev-charging/).

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