Should You Convert Your IBA to a Mini Tunnel?

September 11, 2024

It’s no secret that there has been a noticeable shift in the industry toward express exterior tunnels. And that shift has given way to another new trend – IBA-to-mini-tunnel conversions.

While converting your IBA to a mini tunnel can be a great way to infuse new life into your car wash business, it’s not the right move for every IBA. How do you know if it’s right for you?

To determine that, it’s helpful to first understand the advantages of each model and why this trend has emerged.

IBAs vs Tunnels

IBAs offer some advantages vs tunnels. It costs half as much to equip an IBA wash as compared to a full-length tunnel. Their small footprint (typically 40-60 feet) typically allow for low real estate costs and make them a natural choice for gas stations and convenience stores looking for an additional revenue stream.

IBAs require little to no labor and, because customers don't need an attendant to guide them into the wash, IBAs can generate sales 24/7/365. They can also be operated with little owner interaction, making them a popular option for people with a lot of irons in the fire.

Despite these advantages, tunnels can simply can wash more cars– typically 10 times as many as IBAs can. The ability to push more cars through, especially during peak times, is enticing. Plus, customers love the shorter waits. 

car_wash_mini_tunnel.jpgAnother Option

What if car wash operators could experience the small footprint of an IBA with the throughput of a tunnel car wash? Advances in car wash equipment is making this possible. In the past, tunnel wash equipment just couldn’t provide a quality wash in the space provided by an IBA. Now, technology and chemicals have improved, enabling a smaller tunnel to wash cars effectively, even as short as 35 feet!

This is what is known as a mini-tunnel. An IBA-to-mini-tunnel conversion is a great option for operators looking to wash more cars without access to a bigger site. A mini-tunnel can wash up to 70 cars per hour, according to PC&D.

Is Conversion Right for You?

But just because you can doesn’t mean you should. You want to make sure you can wash enough cars in a mini tunnel to offset labor costs and fewer operating hours. You also have to consider the expense of the new equipment that will be required and the loss of sales from being closed two to four months for construction.

Here are some signs that converting to a mini-tunnel might be right for your business:

  • The surrounding area is growing
  • If you sell gas and are concerned about the impact of electric cars on sales
  • Customers are leaving due to long waits
  • You want to wash more cars/make more money
  • You’re facing increasing competition from nearby express exterior tunnels

Taking the Next Step

The in-bay-to-mini-tunnel trend is one that is only going to grow in the coming years. If you’re ready to jump on board, make sure you find the right equipment and technology partners to ensure success.

Specifically, you’ll need a point-of-sale system tailored to the needs of an express exterior model. You’ll want to be sure it can provide enhanced marketing capabilities and can handle unlimited plans with ease. Contact a sales representative to find out how we can help.

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