BY DAN BERTHIAUME
Source: chainstoreage.com, April 2019
Massachusetts is the site of a new revolution – in paying for gas.
An Alltown Mobil gas station in Westborough, Mass., is performing an initial rollout of PayBy Car, a payment solution that enables consumers to purchase gas from their car without handling cash, a credit or debit card, or a mobile app. Drivers who are signed up with the E-ZPass electronic toll collection system (used by 35 million consumers in 17 states) can register online for PayByCar and make digital fuel purchases at participating gas stations via their E-ZPass transponder.
The technology is slated to soon be available for other kinds of transactions, such as paying at convenience stores, car washes, drive-thrus, and restaurants. PayByCar said it selected a gas station in Westborough for product launch due to its proximity to major highways and high volume of passing daily commuters with E-ZPass transponders.
Purchases through PayByCar do not go a consumer’s toll account, but are charged directly to a payment method they choose when enrolling, such as credit or debit card or e-wallet. Upon entering the station, PayByCar recognizes a customer’s transponder and sends a text to their smartphone.
The customer replies with the pump number and PayByCar automatically turns that pump on, registers the transaction, charges their card and sends an email receipt with retail offers for their visit. PayByCar parent company Verdeva is partnering with E-ZPass Group to leverage their transponders.
“PayByCar aligns with our strategy of being first to market with innovative solutions that enhance the overall experience for our guests,” said Mark Cosenza, senior VP from Alltown parent company Global Partners LP. “PayByCar is easy to use and allows commuters to get in and out of the family of Global locations faster.”
