This chapter traces the historical progression of gas stations from early gravity-fed systems to modern-day electric and computing systems, highlighting milestones like the development of meters in 1935 and the impact of the Eisenhower bill on highway construction. The concept of range anxiety with electric vehicles is explored in relation to the historical development of roads and gas stations, with anecdotes about long-distance trips from the early 1900s and the transition to self-serve stations. The discussion also delves into the marketing strategies of car manufacturers and the evolution of fueling convenience at gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations.
Ted Ryan spent more than 20 years as an archivist for Coca-Cola, and is currently the brand manager for archives and heritage at Ford, giving him unique insights into the history of fueling in the US. With EV charging emerging as one of the major challenges to adoption, the gang sat down with Ted to find out what lessons we might learn from history. Turns out there are a lot, you don't want to miss this episode!