Key takeaways:
- Florida is seeing a sharp rise in electric vehicle (EV) tourism as more travelers opt for greener road trips.
- Businesses that install commercial EV charging stations can attract more customers and boost revenue.
- Charging stations increase dwell time, improve visibility online, and show your company is innovative and sustainable.
- Planning and installing EV chargers can take months, so businesses should act now to ensure they benefit from the 2025 travel surge.
Florida draws visitors with its sunny beaches, theme parks, and year-round fun, but travel is changing. When families load up their Teslas, Rivians, or Chevy Equinox for their Florida adventures, they bring new expectations about where to stop and spend money.
Commercial EV charging is now a key amenity for businesses hoping to attract tourists in 2025, and now is a great time to consider installing chargers.
Why EV Road Trips Are on the Rise (And Florida Is a Top Destination)
Travelers across the country have made 2025 a record year for electric vehicle adoption. American dealerships report that over 7% of new cars sold this year are electric, and that number keeps climbing. Road trips are as popular as ever, and many EV owners are considering them now that vehicle ranges and access to public charging have improved.
Central Florida’s popularity makes it a magnet for these EV tourists. The state’s highways, especially I-95, now feature frequent charging stations, reducing range anxiety and encouraging people to visit cities and attractions up and down the peninsula.
Technology is also changing the way people travel. Tourists are looking for eco-friendly and convenient experiences, and they have tech tools to plan these trips. Phone apps are great for mapping out everything from food stops to EV charging locations. When visitors arrive in Central Florida, they now check online maps for places to plug in. Many travelers will choose where to eat, shop, or stay based on whether they can charge their car on-site. As a business, offering commercial EV charging could turn your location into one of their preferred stops.
What Do Businesses Gain from Commercial EV Charging Stations?
Businesses with EV charging stations are seeing a wide range of bene its. Embracing electri ication is great for visibility and revenue.
Here are the biggest advantages:
- More foot traf ic: EV drivers usually spend a few hours charging, especially with Level 2 chargers. This longer wait means more time for people to shop, dine or explore what nearby businesses offer.
- Greater spending: Studies show customers spend more when they remain on-site to charge. Having customers spend more time is an opportunity to offer more services, ranging from Wi-Fi access to vending machines or unique entertainment experiences. On average, customers spend about $1 in-store for every minute they’re charging.
- New income streams: To attract customers, you can either offer free EV charging or charge a fee. Some stations combine the two approaches, giving loyalty perks or discounted rates to returning guests.
- Better online visibility: Maps like Google and PlugShare let drivers search for nearby charging options, which pushes your location to the top of results. People see your business as forward-thinking and innovative, which is great for your reputation.
- Stronger brand appeal: Providing EV charging shows you value progress and care about the environment. It’s a great way to attract like-minded guests and employees.
These benefits are especially meaningful for businesses in hospitality, retail, dining, and entertainment. For instance, a hotel that builds commercial EV charging earns longer guest stays. Shopping centers and restaurants draw in drivers who want to charge while they eat or browse. For office buildings, EV charging can be a way to attract innovative employees in a competitive job market.
Timing Is Everything: Why “Later” Could Cost You
Plenty of Florida businesses want to install charging stations, but delay moving forward. If you put it off until fall, you risk missing the critical window for Florida’s peak holiday and tourist season.
Installation does not happen overnight. The timeline for commercial EV charger installation can stretch from several weeks to many months, depending on a range of factors.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choosing the right site, securing electrical permits, and scheduling with local authorities can take time. In some cases, this planning phase might take a few months.
- Older properties may need electrical panel upgrades or parking lot retro its before installation can begin. Getting all the pieces in place can take longer than expected, especially if your utility needs to upgrade its service.
- As demand for charging grows, you’ll have to account for waiting times for equipment and licensed installers. This can delay your project by a few months.
- The closer you get to the holiday travel season, the more businesses race to install new amenities, and the harder it becomes to secure a spot on an installer’s calendar. Waiting may mean you miss out on travelers seeking charging this year.
The last thing any business wants is to get left behind, just as new customers arrive with urgent charging needs. By starting early, you can manage permits, address any electrical issues, and launch your charging amenity in time for the next tourist season.
Let’s Get You Ready for Florida’s EV Surge
EVPlugz takes the hassle out of going electric. We handle everything from planning and charger selection to installation for your commercial EV charging station in Central Florida. Our experts handle the entire process, from design, charger recommendations and permitting to installation and ongoing maintenance and support long after your project is complete.
We invite you to contact EVPlugz today to get your business ahead of Florida’s EV boom. Let’s work together to turn your property into a top destination for electric vehicle travelers. Reach out and see how we keep your business fully charged for the future.
Let’s turn your business into a top destination for EV travelers. Give us a call to get started!
FAQ
How long does it take to install commercial EV charging stations in Florida?
Most projects take several months, including site selection, permits and construction. Fast-tracked installs in Florida have inished in less than two months, but six months to a year is a typical range.
Can businesses make money with EV charging stations?
Yes, you can charge users, attract more paying customers, and see a boost in spending from visitors who stay while their vehicles charge.
Which types of Florida businesses benefit most from commercial EV charging?
Hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, of ices, attractions, and real estate owners see the biggest advantages, but any business with customer parking can benefit.
