PayPal App Lets Drivers Pay For Fuel Via Smartphone

Mobile-savvy drivers can now pay for their fuel quicker than ever thanks to a new mobile payments deal between PayPal and Shell.

The payments provider has announced that users of its mobile app will now be able to pay at Shell’s nearly 1,000 UK petrol stations using just their smartphone.

Using the PayPal app, which is available on both Android and iOS devices, customers can select their chosen petrol pump at each station, allowing them to fill up. Charging is then done automatically through the app, with a receipt being sent to the phone after fuelling is completed.

Back on the road

“Customers will now have the flexibility and convenience of paying without having to leave their car,” said Michael Hominick, retail marketing manager at Shell UK. “Those who want to go in store and pay or purchase other items will still be able to, with the benefit of reduced queues.”

The launch follows a successful pilot in 2013, and will be available to Shell Drivers Club members from April before going nationwide later in 2015 through both the PayPal app and the Shell Motorist app.

“We’ve always believed people will use their mobile phones to pay if there’s a clear benefit,” said Rob Harper, director of mobile commerce at PayPal UK.

“With today’s announcement, we’re offering drivers a faster way to fill up their car and pay, and get back on the road.”

PayPal, which is currently in the process of being spun off by parent company eBay, says its app is already accepted in more than 8,000 UK shops and restaurants, and is used through some 19 million active British accounts.

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