Daimler and Bosch can use valet parking with app and without driver

Daimler, the parent company of Mercedes, and Bosch have been given permission to start using their automated valet parking service, which was introduced two years ago. For the time being, only in the parking garage of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.

Daimler and Bosch report that they have received permission from the relevant authorities in Baden-Württemberg to deploy the system in the parking garage. This automated valet parking works via a special smartphone app and does not involve a driver. According to the companies, it is the world’s first autonomous ‘level 4 parking function’ that has been officially approved for daily use. This level 4 designation is based on a definition of the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Visitors can leave their car in a specific place in the parking garage, after which the system recognizes the car, starts the engine, parks the car independently and also returns it on departure. In addition to the app, the technology consists of autonomous car systems from Daimler and infrastructure from Bosch. Bosch sensors are scattered throughout the parking garage and provide the information needed to guide the car through the garage. These commands are translated into maneuvers in the car to eventually arrive at a free parking space. According to Bosch, the car will stop immediately at obstacles and cars can also deal with slopes to get to multiple floors.

According to the two companies, this automated valet parking system makes it possible to park up to twenty percent more vehicles in the same space. After all, doors no longer have to be opened to get in and out, which saves a lot of space. Existing garages can be equipped with the infrastructure, although visitors’ cars will still be an obstacle as they are not yet equipped with the necessary technology.