Journalist: The car wash industry seems to be evolving quickly. What does the steam car wash market look like today – are customers buying more or fewer machines than before?
Krzysztof Traczyński, CEO of Fortador: The steam car wash market is expanding very rapidly. Both in Poland and worldwide, entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to eco-friendly, water-saving technologies. Over the past few years, sales have been growing at double-digit rates annually. At Fortador, we’re seeing particularly strong momentum in the United States, where we’ve established showrooms and distribution points in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Lake Worth. Demand is rising steadily as more customers look for sustainable solutions.
Journalist: Which devices are most popular today – stationary or mobile? And what are their price ranges?
Krzysztof Traczyński: Mobile machines remain the most popular, because they allow entrepreneurs to deliver services virtually anywhere without heavy infrastructure. Stationary units are chosen by detailing studios and workshops, where continuous use and higher capacity are important.
But I’d highlight a very fast-growing segment: our Fortador Self Wash concept. These self-service steam car wash units can be installed at fuel stations, shopping malls, or service centers. They combine ecology with a simple and profitable business model for operators.
As for pricing – standard models start from around €8,000–€15,000, while fully equipped professional units can range between €30,000 and €45,000.
Journalist: Have there been any major technical innovations in recent years?
Krzysztof Traczyński: Absolutely. We’ve introduced IoT-enabled telemetry systems that provide real-time monitoring of machine performance, service needs, and consumption. This translates directly into cost control and higher efficiency for operators.
And this year, we’re especially excited to launch the Fortador Sensory at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. It’s a breakthrough model with premium design, intuitive controls, and top-level efficiency. We believe Sensory will redefine the market standard.
Journalist: Who are your customers? And where can steam car washes be found most often?
Krzysztof Traczyński: Our clients include entrepreneurs, auto detailers, fuel stations, and increasingly, companies from the transport and industrial sectors. Steam technology is extremely versatile – it’s used for cars, buses, trucks, industrial equipment, and even interiors.
You’ll find steam car washes in big cities, smaller towns, and on the move with mobile units. And as I mentioned earlier, Self Wash installations are expanding very quickly. They give customers a convenient, ecological way to clean their vehicles with minimal water consumption.
Journalist: What advantages make customers choose steam car washes over traditional methods?
Krzysztof Traczyński: The benefits are very clear:
- Up to 90% water savings,
- Proven disinfection – eliminating bacteria and viruses,
- Versatility – from vehicle exteriors to upholstery and industrial equipment,
- Low setup requirements – no need for extensive infrastructure,
- Strong eco-credentials, which match global sustainability trends.
These advantages are what drive customer trust and adoption.
Journalist: And finally, does such an investment pay off quickly?
Krzysztof Traczyński: Yes. For most of our customers, the investment pays for itself within 18–24 months. Operating costs are minimal, while demand for premium, eco-friendly cleaning services continues to grow.
On top of that, entrepreneurs in Poland and across the EU can benefit from the Innovation 4.0 program, which allows for an extra 50% tax deduction on the machine purchase value when calculating income tax. This reduces taxable income significantly and accelerates ROI. At Fortador, we support clients in managing the application process, making the investment even easier and more profitable.
Journalist: So what’s next for the industry and for Fortador?
Krzysztof Traczyński: The road ahead is very promising. Sustainability is no longer a trend – it’s the new standard. Self Wash solutions will reshape consumer habits, and innovations like IoT monitoring and the Sensory model will set new performance benchmarks.
What was once an alternative has now become the mainstream: steam car washes are not just about cleaning vehicles, but about building profitable, future-proof businesses that align perfectly with global ecological goals. To learn more about Fortador’s steam car wash solutions, visit www.fortador.com.
