bensinstations

Bensinstasjoner are retail facilities that provide motor fuels and related services to motorists. The term bensinstasjon is used in Norwegian, with bensinstasjoner being the plural form. In English, these facilities are commonly called petrol stations or gas stations. They are typically located along roads and highways to serve travelers and local drivers.

Most bensinstasjoner offer fuels such as gasoline (petrol) and diesel. They may also supply alternative fuels, including biodiesel, ethanol blends, liquefied petroleum gas, natural gas, or hydrogen, depending on regional policies and operator networks. In recent years, many stations have added electric vehicle charging points, sometimes with fast chargers. Inside or adjacent to the forecourt, customers usually find a convenience store, snacks, beverages, and sometimes hot food, restrooms, and basic vehicle services such as air pressure stations, windshield cleaning, or oil checks.

Business models and layout vary: stations can be operated by oil companies, retail chains, or independent operators. They range from full-service outlets with attendants to self-service models where customers pump their own fuel. Branding, loyalty programs, and franchising are common revenue strategies, with fuel margins complemented by sales of convenience items and services. The spread of bensinstasjoner followed widespread automobile adoption and the development of highway networks, which created dense networks of stations.

Regulation covers safety and environmental impact, including fire prevention, storage of fuels, and leak detection for underground tanks. Environmental protection laws require spill response and rehabilitation. The growth of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and digital payments has reshaped operations, with some stations integrating payment apps and fleet-services. Modern bensinstasjoner function as multifunction retail hubs rather than mere fuel depots.