Energy and petrochemical firm Shell has announced a partnership with PayPal aimed at bringing a mobile payments solution to petrol station forecourts across the UK later this year.

The companies hope the solution will represent a new level of choice and convenience for consumers, who will be able to pay for fuel from their car using an app on their smartphone or tablet.

Shell plans for the solution to be introduced to the vast majority of its 1,000 service stations across the country, with customers able to use either the Shell Motorist app or the PayPal app to pay.

After driving into the forecourt, customers will simply select the corresponding pump on the app, which authenticates the transaction and issues a receipt once refueling is complete. The solution was trialled in 2013, and will be piloted by Shell Drivers Club members in April, with plans for a nationwide rollout later in the year.

“Were committed to providing a fast, safe and secure service,” said Michael Hominick, retail marketing manager for retail at Shell UK. “Weve listened to our customers and know they will benefit from this innovation. They will now have the flexibility and convenience of paying without having to leave their car. Those who want to go in store and pay or purchase other items will still be able to, with the benefit of reduced queues.

“This is an exciting development for Shell. We believe that by working with a trusted brand like PayPal this new service will positively impact our service stations by delivering the security, choice and convenience UK motorists are after.”