The company selected the sites based on high traffic demand and proximity to major highways, partnering with Seattle-based Electric Era to deploy battery-backed charging technology. Unlike standard chargers, this system uses on-site storage to stabilize grid load, which the companies claim ensures 98% per-port uptime. These stations are slated to go live in early 2027.
Integrating the new hardware with the existing U-Drive Plus loyalty program is central to the rollout. Drivers will earn charging credits through store purchases, bridging the gap between fuel stops and retail visits. By offering amenities like public Wi-Fi and expanded food menus, UDF management expects to shift the role of the convenience store from a transactional pit stop to a community hub. The company plans to analyze usage patterns at these six sites to inform potential future expansion across its 170-store network.



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