Video: Gas station Wifi

NBC News Channel
Published: January 7, 2009

From airline jets to cruise ships, everyone wants to offer you internet connection these days.

But just because it’s available will people use it?

You’ve probably noticed how some gas stations offer tv while you’re standing there at the pump?

Now a major player plans to help you surf the net while filling your tank.

It seems like most people just want to get in and get out when filling up their gas tank.

But British Petroleum, the company that owns Arco has an idea that may get people filling up and sticking around but will it work?

BP has started offering free wifi service at some of its gas stations.

The company owns 9,000 stations across the U.S. and Canada and figures by offering internet connection for phones and laptops, customers might stick around and buy other goods offered at the station.

“You’re just here to get gas and leave, you’re not gonna sit here and check your email, unless the line is so long you have to sit for a half hour.” said one customer.

The wifi connections will start at truck stops and gas stations that are connected to restaurants, after that do you really want to get gas and log onto the internet?

As it is now, internet hot spots are common at coffee shops and restaurants but generally not at gas stations.

While some may jump at the chance to connect others are concerned about privacy.

Along with internet connection, BP could use the connection to get consumer feedback and offer special bargains to customers.

At this point it makes sense that BP will stick with the obvious choices truck stops and stations with restaurants and then expand from there.

But face it, at some point you’ll be connected no matter where you are.