Automatic valet parking systems generally allow a vehicle to be parked without the need for a driver. This system was first approved for use in 2019 and was developed by two leading German companies, namely Mercedes-Benz and Bosch. However, the use at that time was limited in the Mercedes-Ben Museum for daily operation purposes only.
Sharing further, the system has now received official approval from Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) for commercial use in the country. It can be used with privately owned vehicles in the parking lot operated by APCOA P6 at Stuttgart Airport.
This also makes it the first automated driverless parking system in the world to be officially approved for commercial use. In time, also receive Level 4 self-driving approval on cars that allow the system to be used without a driver.
With this step, the driver will only have to get off the vehicle when he arrives at the location. The system will then identify the vehicle and send it to a pre-booked parking space using a special smartphone application. The same procedure will also be used during the process of taking the vehicle to be returned to the driver.
It is also said to be able to function well due to its reliance on a smart sensor infrastructure supplied by Bosch. In addition, also supported by Mercedes-Benz automotive technology installed on the parking lot. Sensors will intelligently monitor the environment and provide the necessary information to ensure the car remains safe. This includes detection for obstacles, braking to stop and resume travel.
Among the supported vehicle models are starting with certain S-Class and EQS variants released in July 2022 and equipped with Intelligent Park Pilot technology. More models will be supported in the near future.
For reference, Mercedes-Benz was also the first company in the world to receive Level 3 self-driving approval before. More unique here, the approval received can also be used on vehicles sold to the public.
