Filling station

Mattoon Service Station (pre-fabricated), angle view, National & Washington Boulevards, Culver City, California LOC 37555778230

BP filling station, Greece

WslErsteTanke

Modern gas station column

Shellgasstationlosthills

Filling station, also known as a gas station (American English), petrol station (British English), or service station, is a facility that sells fuel and engine lubricants for motor vehicles. The most common fuels sold are gasoline (gas, petrol) or diesel fuel. Some filling stations also offer various types of autogas, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), compressed natural gas (CNG), hydrogen, biofuels, or electric vehicle charging stations.

History[edit | edit source]

The first filling stations appeared at the end of the 19th century as the automobile became more popular. Initially, fuel was purchased at general stores, and the quality varied widely. The world's first purpose-built gas station was constructed in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1905. The concept of a drive-in filling station, where drivers could conveniently refuel their vehicles, quickly spread worldwide.

Services[edit | edit source]

In addition to fuel, many stations provide services such as car washes, air pumps for tires, vacuum cleaners, and retail stores. Some may offer automotive repair services, including oil changes and mechanical repairs. Convenience stores at filling stations sell food, beverages, and sometimes grocery items.

Operation[edit | edit source]

Filling stations can be operated directly by oil companies, by independent businesses that franchise the brand and purchase wholesale fuel, or by independent operators that buy fuel on the open market. Prices at the pump may be determined by a variety of factors including wholesale prices, taxes, and the competitive landscape.

Safety Regulations[edit | edit source]

Filling stations are subject to various safety regulations and inspections to prevent fires and environmental contamination. These regulations cover the storage and dispensing of fuel, the maintenance of equipment, and emergency procedures. In many countries, filling stations are required to have fire extinguishers, sand buckets, and other safety equipment on-site.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

The operation of filling stations has an environmental impact, including the risk of fuel spills and leaks that can contaminate soil and groundwater. Many countries have implemented regulations requiring the installation of vapor recovery systems to capture fumes displaced during fueling. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards the inclusion of renewable energy sources and electric vehicle charging to reduce the carbon footprint of filling stations.

Future Trends[edit | edit source]

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is influencing the future of filling stations. Traditional fuel pumps are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by EV charging points. Some industry analysts predict a decline in the number of traditional filling stations as electric vehicles become more prevalent, leading to an increase in demand for fast-charging EV stations.

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