Vontier Corporation, a global provider of critical technologies, announced that it’s accelerating the global launch of its Konect electric vehicle (EV) charging solution — a new business enabling convenience store owners to capitalize on the fast-growing demand for EV charging.
Konect is a unique, end-to-end solution that addresses all critical aspects of EV charging, from site selection and grant applications, through installation and technical support.
The EV market continues to gain momentum, in vehicle sales and the infrastructure needed to support its growth and adoption. Global EV sales are predicted to reach over 11 million units in 2024, a 15% year-on-year increase, and double again by the end of the decade, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF). This creates an attractive investment landscape for charging solutions while offering fuel retailers an exciting opportunity to meet customer needs and diversify.
Fuel retailers are uniquely positioned to support EV drivers, providing both convenient locations close to major routes and desirable amenities while they are plugged in — such as hot, fresh restaurant-style foods, refreshments, clean restrooms, WiFi, and safe and well-lit facilities.
Scalable solutions
Launched in May 2024, Konect enables convenience stores to deploy their own chargers and future-proof their business with a profitable new revenue stream that also complements other services on site. The solution is aimed at simplifying the process for operators, while maximizing uptime and return on investment (ROI). It’s easy to scale, ensuring fuel retailers can cater to a growing population of EV drivers by continuing to provide robust, intuitive and profitable charging infrastructure.
Konect brings together the leadership and technology from multiple Vontier businesses, including Gilbarco Veeder-Root (GVR), the worldwide technology provider in retail and commercial fueling operations; Invenco by GVR, the payment and point-of-sales solutions leader; and EV charging software provider Driivz, currently managing over 100,000 chargers globally for key industry players such as EVgo, Shell, Circle K, Volvo Group, Mer, and Recharge, among others.
Positioned for growth
Initially focused on North America and Europe, Vontier and GVR are actively exploring adjacent markets as interest expands.
“At Konect, we adopted a mantra of ‘easy, seamless and profitable’ and hold that as a guiding principle. Our goal is to add to our customers’ bottom line when providing EV charging and the feedback has been overwhelming — fuel retailers want to work with a trusted and experienced partner, and we’re perfectly placed to provide that,” said Om Shankar, GM and VP, Konect. “We’re developing a strong sales pipeline with major fuel retailers and fleet operators across Europe and North America, with exciting announcements coming soon.”
Filed Under: Charging, Technology News