In our rapidly technologically-evolving world, parking lots are not being left behind. In this article, we will shed light on the new technologies that could transform our everyday parking experiences in the near future.
So, buckle up for an intriguing exploration of the future of parking.
Table Of Contents
Existing Parking Technology
Before we look at the future, let us take a moment to examine some of the existing technologies that are used in today’s parking lots.
Automated Entry Systems
Automated entry systems are generally found in parking lots the world over. They involve parking equipment like automatic gates and parking arms that regulate vehicles’ movements in and out of the facilities. Gates and parking arms are often remote-controlled or activated by a ticket system upon arrival.
Payment Kiosks
Automatic payment kiosks are machines that enable quick payments for parking services. They typically accept various forms of money such as cash, credit cards, and mobile payment.
Surveillance Systems
Another essential technology used in parking lots is the surveillance system. CCTV cameras monitor parking lots around the clock for any suspicious activities or incidents. Thus, they are incredibly effective in enhancing security levels.
Parking Apps
Parking apps notify drivers about available spaces in their local vicinity. That has made life much easier for drivers who get frustrated searching for spots in crowded areas.
License Plate Recognition
Lastly, License Plate Recognition technology is now used in many parking lots. It can automatically identify registered vehicles when entering or exiting, which is an effective tool for combating theft.
The Future of Parking
The world of car park management is rapidly evolving thanks to technological advancements. In the near future, parking lots will likely look and operate differently from the conventional facilities we are familiar with.
Smart Parking Systems
Smart parking systems represent a significant shift in how parking lots will be managed in the future. While many people are now embracing parking apps to find spaces, expect more parking lots to utilize this technology much more in the future.
Utilizing the Internet of Things technology, smart systems can provide real-time information regarding available spots within a specific geographical area.
That not only enables drivers to find spaces more easily. It also helps to reduce congestion and lower carbon emissions by eradicating the need for drivers to drive around aimlessly in search of available spaces.
Increased Use of Mobile Applications
Many modern parking lot services have begun deploying mobile apps that allow customers to locate, reserve, and pay for parking spots all from their mobile devices.
Given the increasing ubiquity of smartphones and the growing trend of app-based transactions, it is safe to predict that this tech’s utilization will only escalate in future parking lots.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Considering the rise in electric vehicle ownership, expect to see more EV charging stations installed in parking lots. These charging points cater to modern eco-friendly vehicles, allowing motorists to recharge their cars while they shop or work.
Some upcoming EV charge stations even boast solar power capabilities that further enhance their environmentally friendly profile.
Automated Valet Parking
A somewhat fascinating prospect is automated valet parking, where autonomous vehicles drive themselves into designated spaces!
While still under testing phases globally, these systems are poised to revolutionize urban mobility by offering significant time savings and reducing vehicle damage risk.
Data-Driven Management
Lastly, more parking lots will employ data-driven management strategies.
By harnessing technologies like AI and Big Data analysis, operators can track usage patterns, predict peak times, adjust pricing strategies accordingly, and plan future expansions more accurately.
Related: 21st Century Parking -The Future Is Robot Valet!