"With partners like Elli, e-mobility becomes economically viable for fuel stations"
How can mid-sized fuel station operators successfully enter the world of e-mobility? In this interview, Elmar Kühn, Managing Director of UNITI, explains why technology neutrality is key to the mobility transition, what opportunities fast charging infrastructure brings to traditional service stations, and the important role Elli plays as a partner. A conversation about visibility, profitability, and the service station of the future.
Mr. Kühn, what makes Elli a strong partner for transforming service stations?
Elmar Kühn: E-mobility is still a young business field, and getting started can be particularly challenging for small and medium-sized fuel station operators represented by UNITI. That’s why it’s even more important to have strong partners like Elli at your side when building and operating charging infrastructure.
What opportunities do you see in integrating fast charging infrastructure at traditional fuel station locations?
Kühn: Mid-sized energy companies with their service stations are among the drivers of road transport decarbonization in Germany. Our sector is committed to achieving climate targets through technology neutrality. This means that companies are advancing both renewable fuels and charging infrastructure for e-mobility. Where there is sufficient demand, fuel station operators will establish charging
What does access to Elli’s “Selected Partner Network” mean specifically for UNITI member companies?
Kühne: For UNITI members, being integrated into the charging planning systems of Europe’s largest car manufacturer is a real advantage. It means their stations are not only on par with market leaders in terms of charging experience and service, but also become more visible to customers. At the same time, drivers benefit from seeing our members’ high-quality charging locations displayed in the infotainment systems of Volkswagen Group EVs. It’s a win-win for everyone.
The Elli Flexpole relies on battery-buffered technology. What are the specific benefits for your members?
Kühne: Entering the e-mobility market involves hurdles and investments for fuel station operators. The easier and more cost-effective that entry can be, the better. The possibility of connecting the Elli Flexpole to existing infrastructure without expensive grid connections or civil engineering work reduces both effort and cost. This significantly increases the chances of establishing economically viable e-mobility business models at more locations.
What is your vision for the service station of the future and what role does the partnership with Elli play?
Kühne: Service stations are evolving beyond their traditional role of fuel sales. They are becoming mobility hubs for various types of propulsion and points of interest offering sophisticated retail concepts and a wide range of convenience services for people on the go. At the same time, they are adapting to changing customer expectations regarding products and services. E-mobility is one important building block in this transformation, and working with strong partners like Elli can help stations navigate this shift successfully.