Perhaps some larger chain will step in, and incorporate one dinky petrol station at each location? The safety issues probably rule out a chain restaurant, but maybe Walmart will become the go-to.

Vending machines solved the automated snack sales decades ago, except for the restocking.

Janus Electric has been converting prime movers to electric since 2019, listed on the ASX this year, and have demonstrated viability.

* https://primemovermag.com.au/body-electric/

* https://www.januselectric.com.au/news/janus-unveils-first-el...

* https://www.januselectric.com.au/

So far they've barely made a dent in global big truck numbers but they're planning to expand over the next few years .. and there are others in the same business.

> Comparison to earth moving equipment in mines do not apply.

Why not? These fleets have been quasi electric since the 1970s, have serious ongoing research into fully renewable replacement paths, and are responsible for a massive chunk of transport fuel usage given the sheer number of mines in the world and numbers such as iron ore mining in one Australia state alone accounting for > than a billion tonnes moved by trucks alone (including overburden, etc).

These aren't trucks that refuel at gas stations, but they are a considerable sink for fossil fuels.

(No, don't ask me how that would work. I don't know. I just think that private enterprise could do it quite quickly, if they saw a way to turn a profit doing so.)

- now having larger buildings to incorporate more convenience products (mostly foodstuffs) for sale - more pumps

Okay, let's break down the idea that gas stations haven't changed much in the last 70 years and won't change much in the next 15.

Arguments for Things Haven't Changed Much (or Won't Change Much):

Core Function: The fundamental purpose of a gas station is to provide fuel (gasoline/diesel) and basic convenience items to drivers. This core function has remained constant for 70 years.

Infrastructure Dependence: Gas stations are intrinsically tied to the existing infrastructure for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Changing this infrastructure is incredibly expensive.

Existing Demand: While EVs are growing, the demand for conventional gasoline and diesel is still high globally, leading to a continued need and a relatively stable business model.

Business Model: The basic business model (selling fuel and convenience goods at a markup) is well-established and often involves franchise agreements, making rapid radical changes difficult.

Regulatory Environment: Gas stations are subject to numerous environmental, safety, and zoning regulations, which can be complex and slow to change.

Arguments for Things Have Changed Significantly (and Will Change Significantly):

Technological Advancements:

Pumps: From manual pumps requiring cash payment to electronic pumps with credit card readers, mobile payment integration, and digital displays.

Payment: From cash and checks primarily to credit cards, mobile apps, and potentially integrated in-car systems.

Store: From basic fluorescent lighting and shelves to modern stores with Wi-Fi, ATMs, coffee bars, prepared food options, and digital signage.

Automation: Increased use of automated systems for fuel delivery, station maintenance (like cleaning), and inventory management.

Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs): This is the most significant driver of potential change. Gas stations are already starting to add EV charging points. Over the next 15 years, as EV adoption grows, gas stations will need to adapt significantly, potentially becoming more "mobility hubs" rather than just fuel stations.

Focus on Convenience & Retail: As fuel margins potentially tighten, gas stations are increasingly focusing on the convenience store aspect, offering more diverse food options, coffee shops, car washes, and other higher-margin services.

Data & Personalization: Gas stations are increasingly using data from loyalty programs, mobile apps, and payment systems to understand customer behavior, personalize offers, and optimize inventory.

Sustainability: Growing pressure for environmental sustainability could lead to stations incorporating solar panels, LED lighting, waste reduction programs, and potentially offering biofuels or hydrogen fuel.

Comparing the Last 70 Years vs. the Next 15 Years:

Last 70 Years: Changes were primarily incremental, focused on efficiency, automation, and adding convenience within the existing ICE vehicle framework. The core product (gasoline) remained dominant.

Next 15 Years: The key is the transition period. The biggest change will be the integration of EV charging and diversification of services (beyond just fuel and snacks), potentially leading to the creation of "mobility hubs." While gas stations won't stop selling gas overnight, the mix of services and the type of customers served will likely shift significantly. The reliance on gasoline as the primary product will likely decrease in many locations.

Conclusion:

While the basic concept of a gas station (selling fuel and convenience items to drivers) hasn't changed much in 70 years, the technology, payment methods, services offered, and the primary fuel being sold have evolved considerably.

Over the next 15 years, the changes are likely to accelerate, driven primarily by the rise of electric vehicles and digital technology. Gas stations won't disappear entirely (especially for ICE vehicles for some time), but they will likely transform into multi-service "mobility hubs," offering traditional fuel alongside EV charging, potentially hydrogen, enhanced convenience retail, and other vehicle-related services, all managed through automation and digital systems. The shift from just a gas station to a broader mobility service provider will be the defining change of the next decade and a half.