Gilbarco Veeder-Root (GVR), a leader in fueling and convenience technology, has unveiled its new electric vehicle (EV) charging solution, Konect. This initiative was launched at the UNITI expo, the premier trade fair for the sector. Konect is designed as a comprehensive, integrated system for businesses looking to deploy their own EV charging stations, promising to enhance profitability while reducing costs.
The system was developed to offer the most advantageous business scenario for fuel retailers by reducing both initial investments and ongoing operational costs. This approach not only paves the way for significant returns on investment but also opens new avenues for profit generation. The primary aim is to encourage more fuel retailers to integrate EV charging facilities into their operations, thereby fostering the growth of electric vehicle uptake.
Konect provides extensive support services including consultancy, installation, maintenance, and customer care, ensuring a streamlined transition for businesses. Central to its offering is a cutting-edge EV charging infrastructure, developed in collaboration with SK Signet Inc., a global frontrunner in EV charging technologies.
This platform is compatible with GVR’s existing service suite, including fueling, payment, and management solutions, allowing for enhanced profit opportunities for fuel retailers. It also supports fleet operators by providing a comprehensive, interconnected EV charging solution that optimizes operational efficiencies and eases the shift to electrification.
Dave Coombe, President of Gilbarco Veeder-Root, commented, “We are setting the stage for EV charging to become not only essential but also a financially rewarding global enterprise. The introduction of Konect underscores our dedication to advancing our clients' business capabilities and leading the EV charging market forward.”
Om Shankar, Vice President & General Manager of Konect, noted the critical juncture at which EV adoption stands. “We are committed to enhancing the availability of charging infrastructure to spur further adoption of electric vehicles. Our collaboration with SK Signet aims to establish a robust charging network that addresses the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s EV drivers,” he stated.
The collaboration with SK Signet is tailored to meet the specific requirements of fuel retailers, featuring a unique dispenser that incorporates advanced payment, media, and loyalty functionalities, along with SK Signet’s top-tier DC fast-charging technology. This integration aims to offer a seamless charging experience for both businesses and end-users.
Jung-ho Shin, CEO of SK Signet, emphasized the significance of their partnership, "Integrating our advanced fast-chargers with the Konect platform addresses a significant gap in the EV market, making reliable and efficient charging solutions more accessible.”
The Konect system is built around a central cloud-based platform that links various on-site services, including point-of-sale systems and energy management, enhancing overall service efficiency and profitability. This ecosystem is adaptable to the specific needs of fleet operators, further bolstering its utility and appeal.
Manufacturing of the Konect EV charging equipment will be handled by SK Signet in both the U.S. and Korea, ensuring a robust supply chain and deployment capability.
More detail on the Konect business can be found here for the U.S. market, and here for the European market. Further information on Gilbarco Veeder-Root is available here.
