DS Automobiles Debuts Innovative Technology to Convert Carkeys into Credit cards

DS Automobiles, the premium brand of Groupe PSA has debuted an innovative new technology that can convert your car keys into a credit card. The new DS3 Connected Chic model will come with technology that transforms a standard car key into a contactless payment system. The keys can be used to make purchases of up to GBP 30 and is ideal for use if you forget to take your wallet or your purse. The key is powered by bPay by Barclaycard and the launch of the key marks the 10th anniversary of the year Barclaycard introduced contactless payments in the UK. This deal is exclusive to the UK market.

Customers can use their keys to keep tabs on their spending, top up their balance, and manage the contactless payment element using the dedicated bPay app that is available on Android and iPhone smartphones.

Mark Blundell, UK Marketing Director at DS Automobiles UK said the introduction was part of the company’s drive to complement the active lifestyle of its customers. It is now key to be able to stay connected and interact with others while on the go. The DS 3 Connected Chic models have a number of connectivity features.

Tami Hargreaves, Director of Innovation and Partnerships at Barclaycard Mobile Payments said that today’s customers have a preference for hard-working, multifunctional technology. By making bPay chips available for use on the car keys in order to power payments, drivers now just need to touch their car keys to have access to a fast, easy and secure way to make everyday purchases. She said this development marks another advance in the bank’s journey to explore the limits of what ‘touch and go’ technology can do.

Other notable features of the DS Connected Chic model include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic air-conditioning and eMyWay satellite navigation and MirrorLink and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity.