Presented by Bryan Main, Managing Director of Certas UK Mobility at a recent industry event, the concept explores how forecourts could evolve from purely transactional fuel stops into multi-purpose mobility and convenience hubs.
Monetising dwell time
With increased migration to electrified transport, the concept offers a glimpse into how forecourts might adapt to changing customer visit patterns. Historically, forecourts have optimised speed and throughput, but future sites may increasingly look to monetise customer dwell-time instead.
From the moment customers arrive on site, the forecourt is designed to respond intelligently to vehicle and mobility needs.
The site itself is imagined as much more than a place to refuel. Sleek architecture, solar-panelled canopies and integrated water recycling systems come together to create a sustainable lifestyle hub where customers can work, relax, shop or ‘recharge’ while their vehicle powers up.
Digital connectivity, frictionless payment and tailored customer experiences are integrated into every touchpoint of the forecourt journey.
Supporting operational efficiency, AI-powered assistants trigger smart alerts through the Gulf Oomph app, while digital displays provide live vehicle diagnostics, charging progress updates and real-time fuel pricing.
Vehicles are automatically directed to suitable bays, where charging pads and automated machine arms stand ready to deliver a broad energy mix – from EV charging to traditional fuels and future hydrogen mobility solutions.
“While the film may seem futuristic, many of the ideas featured are already moving closer to reality,” says Bryan Main, Managing Director, Certas UK Mobility. “Consumers increasingly expect connected, convenience-led experiences wherever they go. The opportunity for forecourts is to rethink waiting time entirely – transforming it from dead time into valuable time.”
Reflecting that emphasis on visit optimisation, customers are encouraged to make fuller use of their time on site. With precise charging estimates, ‘dwell time’ could be used to take advantage of additional services – from rapid vehicle washes to tyre replacement or retail experiences.
In line with current sector thinking, there is also a clear focus on non-fuel revenues. Inside the conceptual service station, an immersive retail environment features digital ordering screens for food-to-go, premium lounge and co-working spaces, self-service retail and entertainment zones for children.
While some aspects remain conceptual, the themes underpinning the vision – including multi-energy provision, frictionless payment, digital integration and increased focus on non-fuel retail revenues – already reflect wider changes taking place across the forecourt sector.
Images provided by Gulf