Mobile Functionality Added to Alternative Fueling Station Locator to Increase User Engagement

June 7, 2023

The Alternative Fueling Station Locator now incorporates updates that improve its functionality for mobile users. The changes allow smoother, more convenient navigation of the map and search features on mobile devices. Users can easily navigate the station map and list views, as well as find stations along a route. They can also adjust station selection filters, including location, fuel type, and payment type. The Station Locator is one of many tools on the Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) that are available to entities building out a national network of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

“The Station Locator is a valuable tool for many alternative fuel vehicle fleets as well as consumers, especially as changes and innovations occur in the alternative fuels market,” said Matt Rahill, software developer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. “These improvements to the user interface broaden the tool’s audience and use cases.”

The Station Locator helps drivers find alternative fuel stations in their area or on their route that fit their vehicle needs, including biodiesel (B20 and above), compressed natural gas, EV charging, ethanol (E85), hydrogen, liquified natural gas, propane, and renewable diesel. Researchers can also use data from the Station Locator to analyze the current landscape for alternative fueling infrastructure. In 2022, the Station Locator had eight million pageviews and 35 million web service/API hits, with EV charging and ethanol leading the station searches at 38% and 37%, respectively.

These mobile functionality enhancements expand the use of the Station Locator as a trusted resource for finding alternative fueling stations and increase opportunities for users to engage with the tool while on the go.

The AFDC provides information, data, and tools to help fleets and other transportation decision makers find ways to reach their energy and economic goals through the use of alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, and other fuel-saving measures. Visit the Station Locator to view alternative fueling stations in the United States and Canada.