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Foster, Nissan team up to re-think the gas station for an electric future

Car-maker Nissan and UK architects Foster + Partners have joined forces to develop concepts for the "Fuel Station of the Future" to accommodate an expected one million electric vehicles (EVs) on the road by 2020.

Nissan said that the "refuelling infrastructure" of the future is an opportunity to "engage with local environments in an innovative way – potentially providing an energy and societal hub for modern communities".

It seems to be clear that electric vehicles will be a major feature of the urban landscape and, as a result, this presents an exciting opportunity to rethink the fuel station for future generations– David Nelson, Head of Design at Foster + Partners

"Our current refuelling infrastructure model is out-dated and faces an uncertain future unless it rapidly adapts to support the changing needs of consumers," said Jean-Pierre Diernaz, Director of Electric Vehicles at Nissan. "By 2020, there will be almost one million EVs on the road, so it is imperative that there is an infrastructure in place to support this growth."

David Nelson, Head of Design at Foster + Partners, said: "It seems to be clear that electric vehicles will be a major feature of the urban landscape and, as a result, this presents an exciting opportunity to rethink the fuel station for future generations."

Nissan will collaborate with Foster + Partners over the coming months to present its vision for the Fuel Station of the Future later this year.

Sales of Nissan EVs rose by 33% in 2014 and continue to climb, the company said.

The Nissan LEAF, launched in 2010, remains the best-selling EV in history, commanding almost a 50% share of today’s zero-emission vehicle market, the company added.

Photograph: The Fuel Station of the Future? (Foster + Partners)

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Comments

  1. great idea but cost of charging will need to be less then fossil fuels, Charrgemaster have introduced a £1.20 admin fee and £7.85. monthly card fee, already thinking of going back to a fossil fuel car as much as I have enjoyed an electric car, Andy

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