Virta

Frequently Asked Questions: Instant Payment

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1. What is the Payment Method for Registered EV Drivers? How does it work?​
Instant Payment is the payment method for registered EV drivers. With Instant Payment, the driver pays for each charging session immediately after it ends. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience, with an instant receipt provided for every transaction.


Please Note

Switching to the Instant Payment method applies only to selected EMPs, not all. If you would like to start using the new payment model, please contact our support team.

  • Once Instant Payment is activated, newly registered drivers will have instant payment set as their billing method.
  • Existing drivers will continue using their previous payment method based on the billing type your organisation had in place before activation.

 

2. Why is Instant Payment preferred over the Postpaid by Card or Prepaid method?

Instant Payment offers several key advantages over traditional payment models:

  • Faster Cash Flow: Payments are processed immediately, enhancing revenue stability.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Drivers benefit from a pay-as-you-go model, increasing convenience and flexibility.
  • Reduced financial liabilities for both users and service providers.
  • Minimised chances of unauthorised transactions or overdue balances.

3. What is the difference between the Prepaid/Postpaid by Card and Instant Payment models?

Prepaid/Postpaid Model:

Prepaid: Drivers load funds into their accounts before use.

Postpaid: Drivers receive a consolidated bill at the end of a billing cycle.

Instant Payment Model:

Payment is made in real-time at the conclusion of each charging session.

This shift ensures a more direct and efficient transaction process.

 

4. How will the switch to Instant Payment impact EV fleet operators who previously relied on monthly invoicing?

No immediate action is required from existing fleet operators; they may continue using their current preferred payment method.
However, newly registered EV drivers are required to transition to the Instant Payment model.
From the driver's perspective, there is no transition, as they will have only one billing type, Instant Payment, which is automatically set upon registration.

 

5. What happens if a single payment card is linked to multiple accounts?

  • Please ensure that no other Virta platform accounts use the same payment card with a debt.
  • Please settle any open debts before proceeding with transactions.
  •  If unsure, use a different payment card to ensure successful payment.

6. What are the available authentication methods under the Instant Payment model?

The Instant Payment model supports all existing authentication methods, including mobile applications and RFID cards, ensuring no changes to the user experience.

 

7. Will the Instant Payment method affect pricing structures, such as energy tariffs and session fees?

The pricing structure will remain based on energy consumption and session duration, but users need to now pay immediately rather than being billed later, potentially leading to better transparency in cost management.

 

8. What happens in case of a failed payment or insufficient funds?

  • If a payment fails, the driver is required to complete the payment before being able to initiate a new charging session.

  • The driver needs to provide a valid payment method before resuming charging services. 

This ensures uninterrupted service while maintaining financial security.

 

9. Will there be any changes in how charging history and receipts are managed?

Charging history and receipts will continue to be accessible through:

  • The mobile app
  • The web portal

However, each charging session will have an individual transaction record instead of consolidated monthly statements.

 

10. What happens to the Postpaid by Card model?

The Postpaid by Card model will be gradually phased out and replaced with the Instant Payment model.

  • No immediate action is required from your side.
  • Advance notice will be provided if any steps need to be taken.

For further inquiries or support, please contact our customer service team.

 

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