The Crew will feature microtransactions that allow players to purchase new performance parts using real-world money, Ubisoft has revealed.

The system appears to be similar to the monetisation model found in many free-to-play games, with players able to earn in-game credits by completing missions and challenges, or short-cutting the process by purchasing currency with real cash.

"We can confirm that performance parts can be unlocked through progression as well as microtransactions," a Ubisoft representative told VideoGamer.com. "All content can be unlocked through progression, but for busy gamers who want to save some time, they will have the opportunity to buy some items in-game."

Judging by an earlier Q&A, the model appears to be divided into two individual forms of currency: $ and Crew Credits.

"Everything in the game has got this dual currency approach," creative director Julian Gerighty told us during a recent press tour. "We're not going to stop you from progressing [if you don't spend money], but it'll be more time."

What isn't yet clear, however, is how Ubisoft intends to avoid situations that could lead to pay-to-win scenarios. For example, could a player purchase additional upgrades using real money to give them an advantage over another equally-skilled player?

It also raises questions for Ubisoft's other online-only RPG The Division. Could that be due to implement microtransactions as well?

The Crew launches later this year on Xbox One, PS4 and PC.