The electric vehicle revolution presents hotels with new opportunities and challenges. As EV ownership increases, making access to charging stations is crucial for guests. Hotels are adapting, transforming EV charging from a unique selling point to an expected amenity.
Industry leaders like Hilton and Marriott spearhead this movement, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to meeting growing demand.
While currently considered a value-added service, experts anticipate a future shift towards monetization. hotelAVE’s CEO Michelle Russo suggests integrating charging fees into bundled services, similar to destination fees, as a potential revenue stream. However, as EV adoption accelerates, experts suggest that complimentary charging may become the norm, mirroring the evolution of amenities like complimentary breakfast.
To effectively manage the increasing demand for EV charging stations, hotels should proactively address operational challenges. Hotels must strike a balance between maximizing profitability and providing convenient, customer-centric charging experiences. As the industry gears up for the electric future, a well-structured strategy involving reservation systems and human supervision will be crucial for accommodating the surge in EVs and enhancing overall guest satisfaction.
Read more on CoStar here.