Beginners guide : Starting or buying a ev charging station business for sale

Electric cars were once a distant dream for some, while for others, navigating the landscape of EV charging stations can feel like a daunting task. But now, there's a bridge between these two worlds: the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure. The U.S. government has already committed to building 250,000 EV charging stations annually, signaling strong support for this burgeoning industry.

In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about starting or purchasing an EV charging station business. From understanding the fundamentals to exploring revenue opportunities and finding the right equipment, the EV charging station industry is heating up. With car manufacturers facing mounting pressure to make 50% of their vehicles electric, it's time for entrepreneurs to seize the opportunity and get involved in the EV charging station business. So, roll up your sleeves, because we're about to embark on an electrifying journey.

What exactly is an EV charging station?

When you hear 'EV,' you might immediately think of Tesla. While Elon Musk is busy tweeting away, the world of electric vehicle drivers faces a significant challenge: the scarcity of charging stations, so before we start writing about you starting or buying a ev charging station business for sale lets break it down a bit – Imagine you're driving an electric car, any make or model, and you start running low on charge, but the nearest EV charging station is a daunting 30 miles away. What do you do in such a situation?

An EV charging station is like a gas station, but specifically designed for electric cars. These stations provide something called 'KWH' or kilowatt-hours, which is the energy unit used to charge your vehicle. The charging time varies depending on the type of charging unit installed, ranging from mere minutes to up to 8 hours for a full charge. Don't worry; we'll break down the three main EV charging units you can consider for your EV charging station business."

How many types of ev charging stations are their?

This part is important when starting electric car charging station business and here is why there is 3 types of models usually used and here is a small break down 

Level 1 Charger (120V AC):

Level 1 chargers are suitable for basic home charging. They use standard 120-volt household outlets, making them accessible for most homeowners. While they provide the slowest charging rate, they are a practical choice for overnight charging, ensuring your electric vehicle is ready to go each morning.

Level 2 Charger (240V AC):

Level 2 chargers are versatile and commonly used both in homes and commercial settings. With a 240-volt power supply, they offer faster charging than Level 1 chargers. Homeowners can install Level 2 chargers in their garages or driveways, while businesses often deploy them in workplaces, apartment complexes, and parking facilities.

Level 3 Charger (DC Fast Charger):

Level 3 chargers, also known as DC fast chargers, are designed for rapid charging on the go. They deliver high-voltage direct current (DC) to your electric vehicle's battery, significantly reducing charging time. Level 3 chargers are typically found along highways, in public charging stations, and serve as a crucial resource for long-distance travel, providing quick access to recharging your EV during road trips.

Now, for those interested in buying an EV charging station business for sale, it's essential to inquire about the types of EV charging stations included in your purchase. This guide can help you determine if it's the right business model for you.

When purchasing EV charging stations, several crucial factors come into play. Firstly, consider the compatibility of the charging stations. Not all electric vehicles are created equal, so ensure that the majority of electric vehicles can use them. If there are any doubts, inquire with your supplier about the availability of adapters to accommodate different EV models.

Additionally, take a look at something called NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standards. These standards are vital to ensure that you're installing these EV chargers correctly and as required. Since you're dealing with cables and electrical components, adhering to NEMA guidelines is crucial to ensure safety and proper operation. For more information, you can refer to their guidelines [here].

How do ev charging stations charge and make money? 

Ev charging stations have a similar model to your local gas station they expect the COD part they mostly accept cards or paying with your phone. The way a ev charging station business works is pretty simple once your station is installed customer that need to power up will drive to one and simply enter there credit card unlike a gas station you cant choose the amount but choosing how many minutes you want to stay is totally up to you, say a customer stays for 30 minutes and gets enough miles to get them to their location thats how many kilo-watts they would get charged by, being that each vehcle is different To estimate how many miles a vehicle  can get per kWh, you'll need to know the total driving range of your EV on a full charge. This information is usually provided by the manufacturer or can be found in the vehicle's documentation, but depending on the model i explained above for the faster model you can charge 35+ cents a kilo watt. In addition when making a pricing model  you can choose a method like charging like a subscription model to keep customers returning or  second is going with the public rate for each machine.

What expenses come with a ev charging station business?

So yeah so far so good right?  But in business i dont like to just look at the wins i also like to focus more on the loses that will come with business Launching or buying an electric vehicle (EV) charging station business for sale can be an exciting venture in today's eco-conscious world. As more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles, the demand for convenient and accessible charging solutions continues to grow. However, like any business endeavor, it's essential to be aware of the financial aspects involved. In this discussion, we'll delve into the key expenses associated with running an EV charging station business, shedding light on the costs you need to consider for a successful operation.

1. ​​Machine Purchase: Acquiring the charging machines is a significant upfront expense. These machines can vary in cost based on factors like capacity and features.

2. Installation Costs: Installing the charging machines, including electrical work and infrastructure setup, can also be a substantial expense.

3. Location Expenses: Depending on your business model, you may need to pay rent to the business owner or cover the costs of the location where your charging station is situated. This expense is often calculated as a percentage of your gross profit, typically up to 25% to 30% and sometimes more.

4. Electricity Bills: You'll need to cover the electricity costs required to charge the EVs at your station. This can be a variable cost depending on usage.

These are some of the core expenses associated with operating an EV charging station business. Other potential expenses may include maintenance and repairs, marketing and advertising, insurance, and administrative costs, depending on the scale and complexity of your business.

How to pick locations for a ev charging station? 

As with any business venture, location plays a pivotal role in the success of an EV charging station business. Before selecting a spot for your charging station, it's essential to consider various factors. You'll want to ask questions like: Is the nearest EV charging station a mile away or just around the corner? What are the local regulations, and will permits be required? And, of course, securing the right location through lease agreements or approvals from property owners is paramount. But where are the ideal locations for EV charging stations?

Shopping Malls: EV owners can charge their vehicles while shopping, making it a convenient option.

Restaurants and Cafes: Providing charging facilities can attract customers who wish to dine while their EVs charge.

Hotels: EV charging stations at hotels are a valuable amenity for travelers.

Corporate Offices: Many businesses are installing charging stations to encourage eco-friendly commuting by their employees.

Highway Rest Stops: Along major highways, these charging stations are crucial for long-distance EV travelers.

Public Parking Garages: Charging stations in city parking garages make urban EV use more practical.

Gas Stations: Some traditional gas stations are adding EV charging stations to diversify their services.

Universities and Colleges: Campuses are ideal places to install charging stations for students and staff.

Government Buildings: Public buildings, such as city halls or courthouses, can offer EV charging as a community service.

Airports: Charging stations at airports are valuable for travelers who want to return to a fully charged EV after their trip.

Carwashes:  Car washes are a great place they the room and most people go there with time on there hand so after a car wash they can charge their ev vehicles :

In summary, the EV charging station business is pretty sweet. Whether you're starting from scratch or snagging an existing EV charging station business for sale, the choice is yours to roll with. Just like I mentioned upfront, the U.S. government is fully on board, dishing out grants and rebates to give you a boost and get things rolling just like they did with solar power businesses.

Check out the two links I'm dropping below to tap into these government goodies. Now, onto suppliers. You've got some heavy hitters like ChargePoint, a big name in the game, and EVSE. When you're picking your charging gear, remember to ask the important questions: Is it compatible with different EVs? Can it handle the elements like a champ, rain or shine? And what's the deal with their customer support—are they there for you when you need 'em?

In the world of EV charging, knowledge is your ticket to success. Use that know-how to build a thriving business in this ever-growing industry

Link 1 : Federal funding via  transportation department 

Link 2 :  US department of energy 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. The laws and regulations regarding business licenses may vary from state to state and are subject to change. It is important to contact your local state office to determine which licenses are required for any specific businesses. Additionally, please note that this article contains affiliate links and we may earn a commission from our affiliate partners or amazon links. If you are considering starting a business, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified lawyer, business broker, or professional in your area. The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.