Kia has launched CarPay, an in-car payment service, starting with the EV3 model, allowing drivers to pay for goods and services directly from their vehicle. The first application of CarPay partners with Parkopedia, allowing users in Europe to locate and pay for parking through their car’s navigation screen.
This innovative service aims to enhance driver convenience, especially in urban areas where parking remains challenging. A study found that 92% of drivers across major markets, including France, Germany, and the UK, struggle to find available parking, often leading to costly parking tickets. The situation is particularly challenging for electric vehicle (EV) owners, with nearly half facing unexpected parking fines while charging their vehicles.
According to Hans Puvogel, COO of Parkopedia, CarPay simplifies the process, helping drivers avoid the frustration of locating a parking machine or using multiple apps to pay for parking. The integrated system allows users to locate nearby parking spots, view costs, and securely pay via a stored payment card.
Parkopedia’s service currently supports outdoor and on-street parking with plans to expand to indoor parking facilities in the future. It covers over 1.7 million parking spots across 19 European countries. CarPay, available in all upcoming Kia models, aligns with Kia’s broader dedication to improving the driving experience by expanding in-car payment options and services.
Kia Connect’s General Manager, Olivier Pascal, highlighted that CarPay’s initial focus on parking is only the beginning, with plans to expand to cover a wide array of services, enhancing the convenience and efficiency of Kia’s in-car technology.
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