Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA) has partnered with German automaker Mercedes-Benz to launch native in-car payments at over 3,600 cooperating gas stations in Germany. To use this new payment feature, customers must have current Mercedes-Benz models and German-issued Mastercard credit or debit cards registered in the Mercedes me user account.
This payment method utilizes a fingerprint sensor integrated into the Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system, which enhances interaction between users and their vehicles. Customers can conveniently and securely make digital fuel payments across Germany using their fingerprints. The expansion of this convenient payment method to other vehicle-related services and European markets is planned.
This innovation eliminates the need for customers to enter a PIN or authenticate payments via a mobile device at the point of sale, ensuring a hassle-free in-vehicle experience. The integration of Mastercard Secure Card on File for Commerce Platforms technology into Mercedes-Benz car models enables this opportunity for in-car online payments. This technology uses unique cryptograms to encrypt transaction data, ensuring the security of sensitive payment information.
Mastercard’s efforts to offer modernized payment solutions aim to promote the adoption of digital payments in consumers’ daily lives. The focus is on simplifying the journeys of car drivers across multiple European markets.
This enhanced digital suite of Mastercard, achieved through collaborations and significant investments, is expected to establish a strong presence in the digitally thriving continent. The reputation of a globally trusted company like Mastercard will encourage more consumers to embrace new forms of digital payments in their daily activities.
The increased adoption of Mastercard’s solutions may lead to higher revenues for the company. Additionally, introducing a highly convenient contactless payment feature to Mastercard’s card offerings in Germany is likely to attract more nationwide customers to choose Mastercard’s cards, thereby expanding its cardholder base.
In the past year, Mastercard’s shares have gained 40.5%, outperforming the industry’s growth of 24.8%.
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