This concept, borrowed from Japan, resulted in locally nicknamed “Japonka” stations. These stations stood out for their striking, almost futuristic appearance, resembling “UFO” flying saucers perched atop support structures. One of the coolest features of these gas stations was how easy they made refueling. Unlike regular gas stations, it didn’t matter which side of your car the fuel filler was on. Drivers simply needed to park near their desired hose. After paying the operator, a nozzle with a hose would magically lower from the “flying saucer” above. This clever setup meant drivers didn’t have to stretch or struggle to reach the hose, making the whole refueling process quicker and more convenient. It was a perfect blend of futuristic design and practical thinking. Unfortunately, these cool gas stations didn’t become popular. Despite its initial appeal, it was found to have more drawbacks than benefits. One significant issue was its safety; during operation, these futuristic gas stations proved to be quite unsafe. If the seals on the hoses were somehow compromised, fuel could drip down, creating a potential fire hazard. This made them too risky for widespread use. Furthermore, the design and construction of these gas stations were also more complex and expensive compared to traditional gas stations. The mechanical systems required for the hoses to be lowered and raised added to the maintenance costs and complexity of these stations. Moreover, the futuristic design, while visually appealing, may have seemed impractical or unnecessary to some consumers and authorities. Originally, this gas station style was developed in Japan in the late 1960s and early 1970s and was colloquially called “sky pumps.” Instead of placing fuel pumps on the ground, hoses were suspended from above. This innovative design offered several key benefits. By moving the pumps overhead, the ground space was used more effectively, which was crucial in busy urban areas. Drivers could easily access the hoses regardless of where their car’s fuel filler was located, making refueling faster and simpler.
Finally, sky pumps offered an unexpected safety benefit. Traditional ground-level pumps were susceptible to accidental collisions with vehicles. Sky pumps, with their elevated position, significantly minimized this risk, contributing to an overall safer environment for both drivers and station personnel. Major companies, like Idemitsu Kosan, adopted the system, making it a common feature in city gas stations. The design was not only practical but also gave the stations a modern, futuristic look, appealing to both drivers and station owners. Today, the overhead fuel pump system remains an iconic feature of Japanese gas station design. Its influence can be seen in modern gas stations around the world.
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