Circle K Launches First European EV Charging-Only Convenience Store in Sweden

Last week marked a historic moment in the evolution of electric mobility: Circle K officially opened its first EV charging-only location in Europe, located in Gårda, just outside central Gothenburg, Sweden.

This cutting-edge site features ten ultra-fast 400 kW chargers and a 100 m² (1,076 ft²) convenience store, making it the largest EV-only charging convenience location in Circle K’s global network. Perfectly situated along the E6 motorway—which sees more than 100,000 vehicles daily—the Gårda hub is designed to meet the needs of both commuters and the 10,000+ workers in the surrounding area.

At the heart of the Gårda location are Kempower’s high-performance charging systems, including two 600 kW Power Units and ten Single Satellites. These chargers dynamically distribute power based on vehicle demand, allowing most EVs to charge from 0 to 80% in just about 15 minutes. While their cars power up, drivers can relax in the modern convenience store, which offers fresh pizza, kebab, award-winning sausage, and grab-and-go drinks and snacks—bringing a new level of comfort and liveliness to the neighborhood.

Kempower and Circle K have also rolled out an enhanced Autocharge feature at Gårda. This innovation allows the charging system to recognize a vehicle and begin charging automatically during future visits—no cards, no apps, no waiting. This streamlined user experience is compatible with most EV brands and sets a new standard for convenient, user-friendly public charging.

Erik Kanerva, Kempower’s Sales Director for North Europe, said: “Circle K is an exceptional example of an established business embracing incoming change as the EV transition moves forward. It’s a big step to dedicate a brand-new site exclusively to EV charging, and Circle K has clearly recognized the strategic importance in investing in the transition to electric mobility. We’re proud to have supported them with developing this milestone site in Gårda and look forward to continuing to develop our partnership going forward.”

The Gårda station is the latest in a growing wave of EV-focused infrastructure from Circle K. It follows the recent launch of the company’s largest EV charging hub in Järna, Sweden, and adds to a European network of over 3,000 branded chargers. With approximately 17,000 locations worldwide, Circle K is uniquely equipped to support drivers in the global shift to electric transportation—delivering convenience, speed, and sustainability along the way.

Officially inaugurated on May 23, 2025, with a ribbon-cutting celebration, the Gårda station represents more than just a new charging site—it’s a milestone in Circle K’s journey toward a cleaner, more electrified future. As EV adoption continues to accelerate, sites like this one offer a glimpse of what tomorrow’s travel centers will look like: high-speed, driver-focused, and fully electric.

Hans-Olav Høidahl, EVP European Operations and Global eMobility, comments on Circle K’s EV journey in Europe, “Our new location at Gårda marks a significant step in our ambition to win the EV customer – offering easy and convenient charging with a complete retail experience. With ultra-fast chargers, great food and beverage options, Wi-Fi and ample seating, the site has been designed to meet our customers’ needs. It’s a safe harbor on the road, and a clear step forward in our ambition to be the preferred on-the-go charging destination across Europe.”

Circle K’s Impressive Convenience Store EV Charging in America

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to surge in the United States despite big oil’s attempts to hold it back, Circle K’s impressive EV charging program is stepping up to meet growing demand—bringing its signature convenience and reliability to EV drivers across the country.

With over 17,000 locations globally, including thousands across North America, Circle K is uniquely positioned to become a key player in America’s EV charging infrastructure. The company has already begun rolling out high-speed EV chargers at select U.S. stores, combining fast, reliable charging with the on-the-go amenities that customers have come to expect from the brand.

Circle K’s U.S. EV charging strategy focuses on ultra-fast charging solutions—typically in the 150–350 kW range—to minimize charging times for drivers on the move. These chargers are being deployed at strategically located Circle K sites, including interstate corridors, high-traffic urban areas, and near major commuter routes, providing convenient access to energy while customers refuel with coffee, snacks, or a meal.

Many locations feature covered charging stations, well-lit environments, and 24/7 access, making the charging experience safer and more convenient at any hour. In some pilot markets, Circle K has even integrated renewable energy offsets and battery storage into their charging infrastructure, showcasing a commitment to both sustainability and innovation.

Circle K’s long-term vision in the U.S. includes building a coast-to-coast EV charging network, making it possible for EV drivers to confidently plan long-distance road trips. The company is working with a range of hardware providers, energy companies, and utility partners to expand its charging footprint across multiple states.

Circle K is also part of the National Electric Highway Coalition (NEHC) and supports federal and state-level EV infrastructure initiatives, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s NEVI program, which aims to build a nationwide network of fast chargers along key travel corridors.

In February 2024, EVinfo.net reported on how the admirable Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, along with Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt, heralded a new era for electric vehicle infrastructure in the Southeastern United States with the commencement of construction on the region’s first National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) charging station. The location features ABB E-mobility’s Terra 184 chargers.

While Circle K is ramping up its presence in the U.S., the company brings deep experience from its European operations, where it already operates more than 3,000 branded EV chargers. From ultra-fast charging hubs in Norway to its new EV-only charging station in Gothenburg, Sweden, Circle K has built a strong reputation as a charging innovator—one it’s now bringing to American roads.