In a place as big as Texas, gasoline is the lifeblood of the state – for now, anyway.
After all, some experts believe we’re already past the point of peak gasoline demand in the United States thanks to electric vehicles and more hybrid or remote work options. These are changes that many welcome. But can we predict what comes next?
Texas Standard is exploring these questions and a whole lot more in an upcoming special, “Pumped: Food, fuel, and the future of Texas gas stations,” set to air Thursday, March 9.
Part of our premise is this: The places where people get gas are often landmarks along highways and in small towns. Gas stations have developed their own cultures and brand identity, depending on what part of the state you’re in – whether it’s the world’s largest Buc-ee’s or a one-pump relic that remains a community gathering place.
We hope our special program will be a window into communities across the state, and tell us something bigger about what makes Texas the way it is. We want to hear the stories of people whose lives revolve around these places, as well as those who are just passing through.
Tune in March 9 for “Pumped” on your local NPR station or via the Texas Standard podcast, and sign up for our Talk of Texas newsletter so you don’t miss out on a special edition email all about gas stations.
