Big Changes Coming for Petrol Stations in South Africa

Big changes coming for petrol stations in South Africa as the nation begins a gradual transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy alternatives. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and the development of a national charging network are set to redefine the business model for traditional fuel stations.

As fuel station operators grapple with a future marked by declining petrol sales, experts are pointing to new energy vehicles (NEVs) and renewable energy solutions as the next frontier for profitability and sustainability.

Fuel Station Changes in South Africa Are Underway

According to Karen Keylock, National Retail Services Manager at Nedbank Commercial Banking, the shift toward cleaner fuels is inevitable and already in progress. Globally, the automotive industry is steering away from internal combustion engines and embracing electric and hybrid alternatives.

In South Africa, while EV uptake remains modest—currently below 3% of total new vehicle sales—momentum is building. Organisations like NAAMSA (Automotive Business Council) and private sector partners are spearheading the development of an NEV charging network with over 120 planned sites across the country.

These sites are being strategically integrated into existing fuel stations, helping ensure accessibility for long-distance travel and urban commuting alike. These fuel station changes in South Africa will reshape how motorists interact with forecourts.

NEV Charging Network to Transform Forecourts

The NEV charging network will serve as the backbone of South Africa’s new transport infrastructure. Unlike petrol refuelling, which takes minutes, charging an EV can take significantly longer—especially for full battery replenishment. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for fuel stations.

Instead of building entirely new stations, the charging network will leverage existing petrol station locations, repurposing their infrastructure for EV compatibility. Public access to these stations will be free of hidden costs, and in most cases, chargers will be powered by renewable energy.

Keylock explained that these stations are ideal for solar PV installation due to their typically large, sunlit rooftops. This supports a transition to renewable energy forecourts, decreasing operational reliance on Eskom and enhancing profitability.

“Fuel stations are ideally suited for solar PV because of their large roof space and exposure to sunlight,” she said.

From Fuel to Full-Service Lifestyle Hubs

The evolution of forecourts isn’t new. Since the 1960s, South African fuel stations have included convenience stores, fast food restaurants, tyre fitment centres, and even motels. The next phase will be lifestyle-focused, offering more services to keep customers occupied during EV charging.

Expect to see pharmacies, gyms, co-working spaces, laundromats, and even medical clinics embedded into these locations. This shift reflects the reality that fuel sales may contribute as little as 20% of a forecourt’s revenue in the near future—down from the historical 90%.

Keylock believes this new era of renewable energy forecourts represents a logical evolution for the industry.

“Forecourts have always adapted to meet motorist needs. This transition to EVs is the next step in that journey.”

Affordability of EVs Still a Challenge

While the infrastructure is evolving, electric vehicle affordability remains a significant hurdle for widespread adoption in South Africa.

Most battery electric vehicles (BEVs) retail for more than R900,000, placing them out of reach for the average South African consumer. For example, the electric Mini Countryman SE costs over R1 million, while its internal combustion version starts at R700,000.

In contrast, traditional hybrids, such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, are slightly more accessible and currently dominate the local NEV market.

Chery’s newly launched Tiggo Cross Hybrid, which is just R40,000 more expensive than its ICE version, reflects how price gaps are narrowing—albeit slowly.

To combat pricing issues, South Africa is reducing EV import duties, which could make newer, cheaper models more accessible in the next 12–18 months.

EVs Offer Long-Term Cost Savings

Despite high initial costs, EVs offer long-term financial benefits that appeal to forward-thinking buyers and businesses. These include:

• Lower maintenance and service costs

• Longer battery lifespan (8–10 years, often more)

• Drastically cheaper fuel equivalent

Public charging stations cost R1.50 to R3.50 per kWh, while petrol is over R20 per litre. Using solar-powered home chargers and off-peak rates, charging costs can be close to zero, especially in sunny areas.

Battery replacements currently cost around R100,000, but prices are expected to fall with technological advancements.

Opportunities for Fuel Station Owners

Despite the challenges, the future for fuel station owners is far from bleak. With smart investment, station owners can:

• Install solar panels to generate clean power

• Add EV charging points as demand grows

• Expand their revenue streams with retail, fitness, and workspace offerings

• Reduce dependency on Eskom by integrating batteries and renewable tech

As the fuel station changes in South Africa continue to unfold, those who adapt will be well-positioned for profitability in a changing energy landscape.

A Look Ahead: What’s Next?

The transition to NEV-compatible infrastructure and renewable energy forecourts won’t happen overnight. But the groundwork is being laid, and forward-thinking fuel station operators are already preparing.

By 2030, South Africa may have:

• Over 500 public EV charging stations

• A 20–25% NEV penetration in urban areas

• Petrol stations acting as full-service mobility hubs

• A viable green energy economy built around forecourt innovation

The big changes coming for petrol stations in South Africa represent a turning point in the country’s transport and energy future. While the pace of change will depend on affordability, policy support, and consumer education, the trajectory is clear: cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable.

Here are five mainstream South African media sources that regularly report on fuel station developments, electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, and related infrastructure:

1. BusinessTech

Covers technology, automotive trends, and changes to South African infrastructure, including EV adoption and petrol station evolution.
🔗 https://businesstech.co.za

2. News24

South Africa’s largest digital news platform with frequent updates on energy, business, and automotive industry shifts.
🔗 https://www.news24.com

3. Engineering News

Focuses on South Africa’s industrial and infrastructure developments, including energy, transport, and forecourt innovation.
🔗 https://www.engineeringnews.co.za

4. MyBroadband

Covers EV technology, renewable energy, and national infrastructure projects that intersect with the tech and mobility sectors.
🔗 https://mybroadband.co.za

5. Moneyweb

Financial and economic news platform with deep dives into industry trends, EV affordability, and infrastructure investment.
🔗 https://www.moneyweb.co.za