Category Archives for: Autonomous Driving

Umojo Expands Commitment to Drive Better Urban Mobility with Award of Sourcewell Curb Management Contract

February 15, 2024

 

 

 

 

Umojo Expands Commitment to Drive Better Urban Mobility with Award of Sourcewell Curb Management Contract

 

 

 

Cooperative Municipal procurement leader awards Umojo with Preferred Contract Supplier Status for Municipal Curb Management Technologies

 

 

Chicago, IL – February 7, 2024 – Umojo announced today that it is delighted to have been chosen as a contract supplier of Curb Management Technology and Services by Sourcewell, a leader in cooperative purchasing facilitation for public entities across North America.

Sourcewell, A self-sustaining government organization, has over 40 years of dedicated service helping government and education entities operate more efficiently through a variety of solutions, including cooperative RFP facilitation and vetting 3rd party vendors for ease of procurement and faster contracting.

In 2023, The U.S. Department of Transportation opened a grant application program for Municipalities to drive Smart City initiatives. Cities were encouraged to submit innovative program proposals with the purpose of improving safety, efficiency, and quality of life in urban corridors. Of those cities selected to receive grant funding for their program proposals, the majority chose Sourcewell to facilitate the vendor selection and cooperative RFP process on their behalf, thereby creating a simpler, more efficient procurement process for each city.

Sourcewell evaluated vendor proposals as they relate to the scope of services set forth by the organization and participating cities. With an award from Sourcewell and becoming a Sourcewell Awarded Supplier, each participating city can choose solutions from Umojo without having to issue a formal RFP process themselves. Umojo is pleased to be one of the few selected vendors to become a Sourcewell Awarded Supplier, achieving the highest overall ranking amongst all vendor submissions.

Rick Neubauer, Umojo CEO, Stated, “We are honored and excited to be selected by Sourcewell to be a preferred vendor to the Grant Cities for this Curb Management Program. We strongly believe that a city can’t truly become a “Smart City” unless it addresses its curb inventory. As cities strive to meet the evolving needs of their constituents, the curb is quickly becoming its most critical real estate.  Multiple entities compete for its space daily, with rideshares, delivery vehicles, public parking, and public transportation among them. We are excited to partner with grant recipient cities to help solve these problems and improve the lives of citizens and businesses, while promoting a safer, more equitable curb inventory.”

About Sourcewell

Sourcewell is a self-sustaining government organization offering a cooperative purchasing program with more than 400 competitively solicited contracts to government, education, and nonprofit entities throughout North America. By utilizing Sourcewell contracts, participating agencies save time and money by capturing the buying power of more than 50,000 organizations.

 About Umojo

Umojo is a leading platform provider of mobility technology, omnichannel contact center operations, data analytics, and network security to drive operational excellence and superior customer experience for the Mobility Industry. The Umojo Nexus Platform powers the core of all Umojo solutions, and harnesses deep expertise to allow municipalities, parking operators, and businesses to better serve their customers and citizens. Using the most accurate camera AI, and integrations with everyone in the industry, Umojo can provide unmatched insights and controls to on and off-street parking and mobility.

Propark Mobility Names Rudy Touvell Chief Development Officer to Propel Innovation and Growth

January 18, 2024

 

 

 

Propark Mobility Names Rudy Touvell Chief Development Officer to Propel Innovation and Growth

 

 

 

 

Hartford, Conn. – Propark Mobility announced today that the company has appointed Rudy Touvell, a longstandingparking management leader, as its Chief Development Officer (CDO).

“Rudy’s contributions to Propark have paved the way for an exceptional level of success in our Midwest Region inrecent years,” said Propark Mobility President Stephen Duffy. “His depth of experience, combined with his operational expertise and strategic approach to business development, makes him an ideal fit to lead the growth efforts of the company in the future.”

Touvell, who most recently served as Senior Vice President of Propark’s Midwest Region, brings over 30 years of experience to the position of CDO. After joining Propark in 2019, he spearheaded the Midwest Region’stransformation, growing its portfolio, expanding its regional team, and enhancing its client-driven solutions.

“Rudy has continuously demonstrated a remarkable ability to transform strategic vision into reality,” said CEO DavidSchmid. “His expertise in cultivating meaningful partnerships has been a driving force behind the Midwest Region’s success, and we are confident that his dynamic leadership will continue to propel the entire Propark organization forward.”

This appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Propark, as the company continues to grow its national presence with new client partnerships and business acquisitions. As CDO, Touvell will leverage his deep understanding of the evolvingneeds of the parking industry to continue leading Propark’s national expansion efforts, fostering strategic partnerships, and identifying emerging opportunities.

About Propark Mobility

Propark Mobility is a national, innovation-driven parking management company that provides full-service parking andmobility services for over 1,000 hospitality, healthcare, commercial, and off-airport locations in over 140 cities across the United States. For more information, please visit www.propark.com.

SKIDATA and Kopernikus Automotive forge partnership to elevate Smart Parking solutions

January 09, 2024

 

 

 

SKIDATA and Kopernikus Automotive forge partnership to elevate Smart Parking solutions

 

 

  • Pioneering next-generation AI-based innovations in parking, accelerating the transformation from a mere vehicle storage function to an integrated, dynamic customer experience.
  • Commitment to setting new industry standards in efficient parking solutions and enhancing mobility in various locations.
  • Elevating smart city infrastructure with advanced parking solutions that seamlessly integrate into diverse urban environments.

 

Salzburg/Leipzig, January 9, 2024 – In a significant move towards advancing Smart Parking solutions, Kopernikus Automotive, a forward-thinking startup, has joined forces with SKIDATA, a leader in parking technology. This worldwide strategic partnership aims to harness the potential of AI and innovative technologies to transform the parking industry, catering to the needs of various operators at different locations, customers, and municipalities.

Technological synergy for advanced Parking Solutions

The collaboration brings together Kopernikus’ innovative proficiency and SKIDATA’s extensive experience in parking management. While Automated Valet Parking is among the technologies in scope, the partnership’s agreement extends to a variety of AI-based solutions. “These advancements include vehicle and object tracking, revenue optimization, misuse avoidance, space recognition, and enhanced car park surveillance, all aimed at improving the parking experience and management as well as optimizing space utilization,” explains Thomas Pühringer, Head of Solutions Portfolio Management at SKIDATA. “The same AI-based systems will optimize revenues today – and drive cars in the future”, adds Stefan Jenzowsky, CEO of Kopernikus Automotive.

Continuously increasing convenience for drivers

For end customers, this partnership promises a host of tangible benefits. “Continuously improving AI technologies ensure more automated and intuitive parking solutions,” says Thomas Pühringer. This advanced precision in automation, exemplified by improved license plate recognition, ensures a swift entry and exit process. Furthermore, the decrease in search traffic significantly cuts down on emissions, minimizes traffic congestion, and diminishes waiting times. The partnership fortifies safety and security with upcoming features like car finder information, which contribute to a more streamlined and protected parking experience.

Enhancing urban mobility and sustainability in the Smart City era

The partnership deeply enhances the customer journey and integrates with smart city infrastructure. Stefan Jenzowsky highlights the partnership’s potential: “Working with SKIDATA allows us to leverage their expertise and scale our innovative solutions. Together, we’re not just improving parking; we’re reimagining it for the smart city era.”

Sustainability is a key pillar of this partnership, with both companies dedicated to reducing emissions and optimizing space utilization in congested areas. Thomas Pühringer emphasizes this: “We’re building on our expertise in barrierless entry, license plate-based services, and efficient space utilization, improving these technologies with AI-enhanced solutions, all contributing to a seamless customer experience and a more sustainable urban environment.”

Innovating and leading the way in Smart Parking

The collaboration also involves engaging stakeholders across Europe and the USA, underscoring the partners’ role in driving the industry toward efficient and customer-friendly solutions, and setting new standards. This partnership marks a new chapter in the evolution of Smart Parking, setting the stage for a future where technology and sustainability converge to reshape urban landscapes.

 

About Kopernikus Automotive
Kopernikus Automotive GmbH is a Leipzig-based start-up company that specializes in Automated Valet Parking (AVP2) in parking garages as well as Infrastructure Orchestrated Maneuvering in automotive production and logistics facilities. Kopernikus Automotive is financed by venture capital. In the last financing round (A-Round), more than €8 million was invested in Kopernikus Automotive by existing investors (including AMAG VW Group Import and TGFS – Technologie Gründerfonds Sachsen) and Continental. The Kopernikus Automated Valet Parking (AVP2) and Infrastructure Orchestrated Maneuvering technology is being tested and implemented by numerous automobile manufacturers such as Volkswagen Group and Ford Motor Company. Kopernikus Automotive GmbH is certified according to ISO 9001:2015.

www.kopernikusauto.com

About SKIDATA
SKIDATA is an international leader in the field of access solutions and their management. Worldwide, leading companies and operators of airports, shopping malls, cities, office buildings, hotels, hospitals, universities, ski resorts, stadiums and amusement parks rely on the secure, future-oriented and reliable access solutions for people and vehicles. SKIDATA is the reliable partner from first consultations to perfect service. SKIDATA places great value in providing solutions that are intuitive, easy to use, and secure for the end customer. The integrated concepts of SKIDATA solutions help clients optimize performance and maximize profits. SKIDATA Group is part of the Kudelski Group, a publicly traded (SIX: KUD.S) worldwide leader in digital business enablement technologies that encompass digital content security, public access, cybersecurity, and IoT. SKIDATA is certified according to ISO 9001:2015 and ISAE 3402.

www.skidata.com

Government funding awarded to project to prove EVs are assets to the grid

December 19, 2023

 

Government funding awarded to project to prove EVs are assets to the grid

 

 

 

  • The project, led by 3ti, will demonstrate that EVs plugged in at workplaces, leisure destinations, fleet depots and delivery hubs can help balance peaks in electricity supply and demand
  • Innovative ‘V2X FastHub’ will be based on 3ti’s award-winning Papilio3 pop-up mini solar car park and EV charging hub, which can be rapidly deployed in under 24 hours
  • Final phase of the project includes a six-month real-world trial using fleet of 10+ EVs as grid assets
  • Project’s DC microgrid design is significantly more cost- and energy-efficient than bi-directional AC systems, making vehicle-to-everything (V2X) energy management commercially viable in the near term and accelerating decarbonisation and net-zero goals

 

Leatherhead, 20 December 2023 – A consortium of British companies has secured £1,344,552 in government funding to explore how electricity stored in electric vehicle (EV) batteries can be used to smooth out peaks in supply and demand on the UK’s electricity grid. 3ti, the UK’s leading designer, installer, funder and operator of solar car parks (SCPs), is leading the new project funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, delivered by Innovate UK. The project is setting out to integrate bi-directional DC charging and the associated power management systems into Papilio3, a pop-up solar car park and EV charging hub. The ‘V2X FastHub’ project will be a watershed moment for future energy security, providing a clear pathway to help resolve the issue of intermittent supply from renewables by using EV batteries as grid assets.

 

The project consortium brings together renewable energy experts 3ti with advanced EV power solutions provider Turbo Power Systems (TPS), smart energy company GridBeyond, and EV & decarbonisation experts Cenex, in a 17-month collaboration to deliver a state-of-the art system, including a six-month real-world demonstration.

3ti will lead the project, delivering a customised Papilio3 with smart grid controls and a 280 kWh DC battery. TPS will harness its DC microgrid systems, managing the bi-directional charging technology through both CCS and CHAdeMO EV charge points, while GridBeyond will oversee energy management and aggregation services through its flexible Energy Management System (EMS). Cenex will host the vehicle trial, which will include the procurement of the trial vehicle fleet, data capture, analysis and final report to Innovate UK.

Specially adapted as a V2X FastHub unit for the project, 3ti’s innovative Papilio3 is a smart grid ‘in-a-box’ that can host up to 12 EVs at a time, housed within an upcycled, rapidly deployable shipping container that can be placed almost anywhere. With a solar canopy and energy storage battery, the system has already delivered in a range of applications for factories, hospitals, leisure centres and council buildings across the UK. For this particular application, Papilio3 will implement a new DC microgrid system – integrating three times faster, bi-directional DC EV charge points with a 280 kWh integral battery storage system and 20 kWp solar roof array.

Through a ‘charge-as-a-service’ business rental model, the unit simplifies installation and reduces up-front costs – or the need for long-term commitment. The result is a commercially attractive, replicable and scalable EV charging solution for a multitude of organisations, including medium dwell-time workplaces, destinations, return-to-base fleets and delivery depots. The provision of EV charging at amenity and business locations maximises revenue generation and enables the faster roll-out of EV charging while simultaneously reducing the burden on carbon-intense rapid charging infrastructure.

Mark Potter, CTO at 3ti, said, “Everybody wants more EVs on the grid. They represent a massive scale, distributed energy resource that can be used to balance real-time supply and demand. This project will prove that bi-directional EV charging can work in the real world. Connected EVs will be teamed together to act as virtual power and energy storage facilities, with each car releasing and replenishing its stored energy according to user preferences and grid demand. This generates income and cost savings, which can be passed on to our customers.”

Smart Microgrids support a more sustainable and reliable energy transition, helping the UK meet its Net Zero and Energy Security targets. This project will be the first in the world to trial a 12 charge point DC Smart Microgrid for CCS V2X based on ISO15118-20, published in April 2022. Each charge point will also support CHAdeMO for compatibility with existing vehicles. This innovative set-up will provide faster, bi-directional EV charging at speeds up to ±30 kW, with much higher power and round-trip energy efficiency than AC solutions.

Potter continues, “Being able to recharge at 30 kW is critical to success in this market. In destination charging, most EVs will only charge at 7 or 11 kW using AC, even if the charge point is rated at 22 kW. Being able to charge at 30 kW regardless of vehicle limitations makes more energy available for V2X export without impacting the overall net charge.

“With DC microgrid V2X, meaningful energy and power levels can make it worthwhile to the asset owners, also offering up to 95% round-trip efficiency – compared to typically 60-70% in the AC domain. The key to unlocking V2X value is having lower OpEx and CapEx, and this project will deliver both.”

Dr. Matthew Knight, Principal Technical Specialist at Cenex, said, “With almost a decade of experience in developing V2X technology, Cenex is excited to bring a novel concept to life in this space. We’re creating pre-fabricated hub solutions that integrate renewable generation, energy storage, and the latest bidirectional EV charging technology to maximise energy use and value while reducing emissions.

 

“In this project, our role as a Research & Technology Organisation involves running a technology demonstration, focus group workshops, trial data collection, technical analysis and business case modelling. Thereby embodying our commitment to identifying and evaluating solutions that drive both the commercial and technical viability of V2X through public dissemination in the multitude of forms Cenex is renowned for.”

 

Micheal Phelan, CEO at GridBeyond, said, “GridBeyond are delighted to be participating in this innovative, ground breaking project which will help demonstrate the potential of vehicle to grid technology and how it can help support a low carbon grid of the future. We are excited to be working alongside key stakeholders and partners to bring all our expertise together for future market insight

Dr Nigel Jakeman, Engineering and Business Development Director at Turbo Power Systems, said:  “It’s both gratifying and exciting to see the world first advanced EV charging technology we have developed on the back of our 40 plus years at the forefront of power solutions, being used within a partnership of true innovators to create a system which will play a pivotal role in decarbonisation and solving climate change, one of the biggest threats our planet faces today.”

The V2X FastHub project, part of the V2X Innovation Programme, is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, delivered by Innovate UK. The V2X Innovation Programme is part of the up to £65m Flexibility Innovation Programme, funded from the £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio.

 

Media contacts:

Sue Mulcaster                           Alex Kreetzer                            Mike Stainton

Sue.mulcaster@pfpr.com           alex.kreetzer@pfpr.com             mike.stainton@pfpr.com

+44 (0) 7842 310087                         +44 (0)7874 856311                          +44 (0) 7739 891040

 

 

About 3ti

3ti is the UK’s leading designer, installer, funder and operator of Solar Car Parks (SCPs). 3ti has a unique three technology (“3t”) approach to generating renewable energy from car parks.

By integrating local mains electricity with solar power, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and EV charge points, 3ti provides secure, consistent, clean solar energy for businesses whilst simultaneously providing low carbon, fast EV charging infrastructure for employees, suppliers, customers and the general public.

3ti is passionate about renewable energy and believes that providing low carbon EV charging infrastructure is the key to decarbonising the transport sector.

Solar energy from car parks is a low cost, low carbon and innovative way to power buildings and EV chargers, enabling customers to generate their own renewable energy and work towards achieving net zero emissions.

The 3ti team is responsible for the two largest SCPs in the UK, at Bentley Motors, Crewe and JP Morgan Chase, Bournemouth, is working on multi-site projects for the Ministry of Defence, and has already installed around 15 MWp of solar PV across almost 3,000 parking spaces around the country.

 

About Cenex

Cenex, established as the UK’s Centre of Excellence for Low Carbon and Fuel Cell technologies in 2005, lowers emission in transport & associated energy infrastructure and operates as an independent, not-for-profit research technology organisation (RTO) and consultancy.

Our independent experts find the right solutions that reduce pollution, increase efficiency and lower costs, and offer informed commentary on the latest policies, technologies and innovations.

About Turbo Power Systems

Turbo Power Systems (TPS) is a leading designer and manufacturer of cutting-edge power conversion systems with applications for industry, transport and energy. We design and manufacture everything in-house at our 55,000sqft facility in Gateshead, shipping our products worldwide.

Our 40-year track record in the development and deployment of power electronics and electrical machines has seen us deliver innovative solutions to- and in collaboration with- some of the world’s most important businesses.

About GridBeyond 

GridBeyond’s vision is to deliver a global zero carbon future. By leveraging AI, we innovate and collaborate with our customers to create optimal value from energy generation, demand and storage to deliver a zero-carbon future.

By bridging the gap between distributed energy resources and electricity markets, GridBeyond’s technology means every connected asset – whether utility-scale renewables generation, battery storage, or industrial load – can be utilised to help maximise opportunities and enhance the grid. By intelligently dispatching flexibility into the right market, at the right time, asset owners and energy consumers unlock new revenues and savings, resilience, and management of price volatility, while supporting the transition to a Net Zero future.

ParkMobile’s Mobile Parking Payment App Launched at Purdue University

November 16, 2023

 

ParkMobile’s Mobile Parking Payment App Launched at Purdue University

 

 

ParkMobile partnered with the university to bring its parking app to West Lafayette campus

 

 

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Nov. 16, 2023  — ParkMobile, the leading provider of smart parking and mobility solutions in North America and part of EasyPark Group, has partnered with Purdue University to integrate its mobile parking payment solution across campus. With the transition from Purdue’s previous provider, students and visitors are now able to pay for a parking spot via the ParkMobile app or web browser. Additional ParkMobile information can be found on the Purdue University Parking website including a “How to use ParkMobile” video and live map that shows all ParkMobile parking spots on campus.

“As we continue to extend our market presence in North America and inch toward our goal of making cities more livable, we’re thrilled to partner with Purdue University to bring our app to its campus. With school in full swing, students and visitors of the university will now be able to easily pay for a parking spot right from their mobile device,” said David Hoyt, managing director of ParkMobile.

This year, ParkMobile is prioritizing strategic partnerships with colleges and universities to create a seamless, stress-free experience for students and visitors. ParkMobile serves over 140 colleges and universities, with 737,319 users in Indianaand reach in primary cities in nearby states.

“With the adoption of ParkMobile, we’re able to modernize and increase parking services, like the map within the app that shows hourly spots on campus,” said Rob Wynkoop, vice president of Auxiliary Services at Purdue University. “As we continue to evaluate short-term parking and add more ParkMobile spaces at strategic locations throughout campus, the map will reflect those.”

ParkMobile is available for both iPhone and Android devices, and can be accessed on a mobile web browser. To pay for parking via the ParkMobile app or website, users will enter the zone number or scan the QR code found on the signs located within the lot or near individual parking spots, choose the duration of time they wish to park and touch the “start parking” button. Users can easily extend their parking sessions after they have paid for parking via the ParkMobile app.

About ParkMobile

ParkMobile, LLC is the leading provider of smart parking and mobility solutions in North America and part of the global parking tech company, EasyPark Group. With the vision to make cities more livable, EasyPark Group owns and develops the apps EasyPark, ParkMobile, RingGo and Park-line, and operates in over 4,000 cities across more than 20 countries. ParkMobile offers digital solutions to quickly find and pay for on-street and off-street parking via a mobile device. The company also offers parking reservations at stadiums, venues, and metro area garages. ParkMobile’s technology is used in thousands of locations across the U.S., including 8 of the top 10 cities, as well as college campuses and airports. ParkMobile has been named to the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Pacesetter Award list, the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Top Workplaces and won the 2022 Stevie Awards for Best Mobile On-Demand Application. Visit ParkMobile.io or @ParkMobile on Twitter for the latest news and information. For EasyPark Group news, visit easyparkgroup.com.

CONTACT:

Haley Haas
PR Manager, US
404-580-0112
haley.haas@parkmobile.io

TKH Security: Horseshoe St Louis to revolutionize the parking experience for guests with a state-of-the-art Automated Parking Guidance System

November 15, 2023

TKH Security: Horseshoe St Louis to revolutionize the parking experience for guests with a state-of-the-art Automated Parking Guidance System

 

 

Cheshire, CT  – TKH Security (formerly Park Assist) is thrilled to announce its recent collaboration with Horseshoe St Louis in St Louis, Missouri. The core of the partnership is the installation of a state-of-the-art Automated Parking Guidance System (APGS), ushering in a new era of parking efficiency and convenience for Horseshoe St Louis and its patrons.

Horseshoe St Louis is a premier casino and entertainment destination in St. Louis, Missouri. With the installation of TKH Security’s APGS, the casino aims to elevate the experience of guests and employees alike in its 867-space, four story parking garage.

TKH Security’s APGS optimizes parking facility management and enhances the parker’s experience from initial garage entry to an open space. Monitoring up to six parking spaces simultaneously, the M5 camera-based smart sensor is the core of the APGS. Sensors utilize streaming HD video 24/7 to provide operators with real-time occupancy data for each parking bay. With 99%+ accuracy, M5 sensors ensure precise and up-to-date information about space availability. Green and red LED lights on the sensors navigate parkers to the available spaces, reducing the time to park by up to 63%.

“We’re pleased to be selected by Horseshoe St Louis in their quest to elevate customer satisfaction through innovative parking solutions. This partnership showcases our dedication to transforming the parking experience for casinos and entertainment venues,” said Jeff Sparrow, Director of Sales, North America. “We anticipate installation completion in early 2024.”

Their APGS package also includes:

  • LCD Signage: Large LCD displays provide clear, user-friendly information, ensuring a seamless parking experience for all users.
  • Park Alerts: Real-time alerts notify operators when certain vehicles enter the building, including special guests and persons who are banned, if someone parks in a restricted space, or if someone overstays their limited-time space.
  • Park Surveillance: By capturing streaming video when motion is detected or continuously, operators can be on the lookout for suspicious activity in a more efficient way than ever before. Plus, since recordings can be saved up to 90 days, security can easily work with authorities when needed.
  • API Package: The API package allows Horseshoe St Louis to both integrate the system seamlessly with their existing infrastructure and connect securely to a limitless set of third-party parking related solutions, creating a customized and robust solution.
  • INX Integration: INX provides Horseshoe St Louis with powerful data analytics and reporting tools, enabling them to make data-driven decisions for ongoing improvements to their parking operations. Real-time and historical actionable data includes: occupancy, dwell, turnover, heatmaps, frequency, trends, comparative analysis, and environmental conditions.

TKH Security is proud to partner with Schaeffer Electric Co on this project.

Vend Park Welcomes Tony Albanese as Head of Revenue

November 02, 2023

 

 

 

Vend Park Welcomes Tony Albanese as Head of Revenue

 

This strategic new hire will help continue growth on the heels of additional funding.

 

BOSTON, Nov. 2, 2023  — Vend Park, a leading innovator in Technology-Driven Parking Management, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Tony Albanese as the new Head of Revenue. In his role, Tony will spearhead efforts to collaborate with owners and operators, offering cutting-edge parking technology solutions that eliminate manual processes and reduce maintenance costs traditionally associated with paper-based PARCS systems.

This significant hire comes on the heels of Vend Park’s recent successful funding round, which raised the company’s total funding to $9 million. The financing round garnered support from a combination of existing investors such as Crossbeam Venture Partners, Floating Point Advisors, and Alumni Ventures, and welcomed new contributors, including York Ventures and PagsGroup.

“Tony’s wealth of knowledge in parking and commercial real estate will bring immediate value to Vend and our customer growth,” said Mike Miele, CEO of Vend Park. “We’re excited to add his expertise and leadership to our team as we continue to capture market demand for innovative technology solutions for commercial paid parking locations and grow our business.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining the Vend team at such a pivotal time for the organization,” said Albanese. “Vend is truly unmatched when it comes to innovative technology and value delivery in this space.”

About Vend Park:

As the pioneer in Technology-Driven Parking Management, Vend Park is helping commercial real estate owners put antiquated parking technology and manual operations in the past. Our automated parking management and payments solution digitizes the traditional operator model, using technology to streamline parking management operations, reduce costs, and drive increased revenue. With Vend, you’ll delight your tenants and visitors with seamless digital parking reservations, contactless entry, and intelligent guidance, ensuring a top-notch parking experience. Automated access control and billing, real-time data insights, and 24/7 support allow your staff to focus on more valuable endeavors. Join the ranks of satisfied property owners who have witnessed substantial NOI gains with Vend Park. Schedule a personalized demo today and unlock the full potential of your parking assets.

About Tony Albanese:

Tony Albanese assumes leadership of Vend’s revenue team, overseeing sales, partnerships, and go-to-market strategy. Boasting over two decades of experience in the parking, technology, and commercial real estate sectors, Tony brings extensive expertise and insights into Vend’s target markets. Prior to joining Vend Park, Tony served as Chief Revenue Officer at ParkHub, guiding the company’s growth and strategy from its inaugural customer in 2015 to a successful acquisition by LLR Partners in 2022. Earlier in his career, Tony led leasing, acquisition, and redevelopment teams for several prominent commercial real estate firms, including Ashkenazy Acquisition Corporation in New York and Weitzman/Cencor in Dallas. His outstanding contributions earned him a spot on the Dallas Business Journal’s prestigious “40 under 40” list when he was just 26 years old.

Vend Park is excited to have Tony Albanese join the team, and his wealth of experience is expected to drive further innovation and growth in the parking technology sector.


Lauren Mead
Head of Marketing
lmead@vendpark.io

 

KEITH B. JONES APPOINTED AS NATIONAL PARKING ASSOCIATION (NPA) BOARD MEMBER

October 02, 2023

 

 

KEITH B. JONES APPOINTED AS NATIONAL PARKING ASSOCIATION (NPA) BOARD MEMBER

 

Washington, DC — Keith B. Jones, Managing Partner, Executive Chairman and Owner of ACE Parking, has been elected to a three-year term on the Board of Directors for the National Parking Association (NPA). ACE was a founding member of the NPA which was formed in 1951 to provide industry research, education, and advocacy, and represents over 100,000 parking professionals. Their board is responsible for cultivating the organization’s mission,vision, and strategic direction for the advancement of the parking industry and its people.

Keith B. Jones oversees corporate strategy for ACE, a leading parking management provider for municipal, commercial, hospitality and healthcare industries. His vision brings a cutting edge to ACE’s traditional values, and he has successfully established the company as an innovator in parking technology and operations. Jones has served on many boards including the Young Presidents Organization, the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation. He has also ledphilanthropic efforts in partnership with groups such as the Alzheimer’s Association, the Lymphoma & Leukemia Society, Susan G. Komen, the Junior League, the Children's Miracle Network, and Rady’s Children’s Hospital. Jones will contribute his experience, leadership, and vision to help actualize the group’s long-term goals, set association policies, and establish program direction.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be elected to this board with so many esteemed, accomplished, and knowledgeable professionals,” Jones said. “I’m inspired by the opportunities ahead and motivated to support and contribute to the NPA’s efforts.” Christine Banning, NPA President and CEO, stated, “We are pleased to welcome stellar nationalleaders to the NPA Board of Directors. Their depth of experience and focus on mobility, parker experience, and theparking asset bring a comprehensive perspective on the industry and its future growth and development.”

ABOUT ACE

Founded in 1950, ACE is a third generation, family-owned business which has grown to become the nation’s largest privately-owned parking and mobility company. With a 73-year history of emphasizing service, revenue generation, and innovation, ACE currently operates in over 1,000 locations, coast to coast, servicing nearly 500,000 customers per day. ACE manages over $1B in gross revenue annually and employs over 7,000 team members. For additional information, please visit aceparking.com.

New partnership sees more than 100,000 JustPark spaces made available to book via Parkopedia

August 24, 2023

 

 

New partnership sees more than 100,000 JustPark spaces made available to book via Parkopedia

 

 

 

  • Users and connected car drivers with integrated Parkopedia services can find, reserve and pay forJustPark’s 100,000 spaces across the UK as part of a smoother and more complete parking experience
  • As part of the roll-out, JustPark’s extensive network of on- and off-street parking spaces will become visibleand payable through the growing number of UK connected cars that have Parkopedia in-car services and through the Parkopedia website and mobile apps
  • New partnership means increased visibility for JustPark’s inventory partners, with spaces visible to Parkopedia’s millions of UK users, driving additional awareness and footfall

 

24 August 2023 – London, UK

 

Two of the world’s leading parking technology companies, Parkopedia and JustPark, have confirmed a partnership which will provide motorists across the UK with an easier and more complete way to find, book and pay for parking. Parkopedia’s platform, which enables connected car drivers to search for convenient local parking, now hosts JustPark’s available parking locations, enabling drivers to book and pay for on-street and off-street parking through their vehicles, in addition to via Parkopedia’s popular consumer website and mobile apps that are used by millions of drivers each month.

 

Integrating JustPark’s available parking spaces will see Parkopedia build its footprint of pre-bookable parkingin the UK while increasing the exposure for JustPark’s parking inventory to millions of Parkopedia’s UK users. This gives drivers more parking options to suit their needs and creates additional revenue opportunities for JustPark’s network of space owners.

 

JustPark’s locations are a combination of commercial parking operations, such as public on-street, multi-storey commercial car parks, shopping centre and hotel car parks and less traditional, community parking spaces.

 

Parkopedia’s connected car drivers will be able to pre-book JustPark’s reservable locations and pay on-demand for on-street parking at selected locations through their navigation system, making payments using their in-car wallet – meaning there will be no requirement to use their phone or bank card to make a payment.

 

Anthony Eskinazi, Founder and CEO of JustPark, said: “Parkopedia offers an outstanding service to motorists around the world, allowing them to seek out the best parking on offer to them. This landmark agreement allows more than 100,000 of JustPark’s extensive collection of parking locations to be seen by Parkopedia’s considerable UK audience, while enhancing its users’ experience by offering even more parking options and the ability to bookand pay for our spaces on the platform for the first time.”

 

Commenting on the new partnership, Founder and CEO of Parkopedia, Eugene Tsyrklevich, added: “This new partnership with JustPark adds to Parkopedia’s already extensive bank of parking locations, offering UK drivers the greatest choice and convenience possible, with the benefit of Parkopedia’s seamless in-car Payment Platform for reservations and payments. By combining our technology and enabling in-car payments, Parkopedia and JustPark continue to reduce the stress associated with finding and paying for parking. This should also ease the third of all inner city congestion that is currently attributed to those looking for parking by enabling smoother journeys with simpler parking planning and reservations.”

About Parkopedia

Parkopedia is the leading connected car services provider used by automakers, organisations and millions of drivers around the world. Parkopedia helps drivers find and pay for parking, EV charging, fuel and tolls across 90 countries. Parkopedia is also developing highly detailed parking maps and corresponding algorithms to help drivers and self-driving vehicles navigate to an open parking space indoors. Visit business.parkopedia.com for more information.

About JustPark

JustPark, established in 2006, is the UK’s favourite parking app, parking a car every 2 seconds. With 12 million drivers and more than 100,000 spaces – including 50,000 private parking spaces and some of the UK’s biggest councils and car parking companies, JustPark markets and monetises both unused driveways and car park capacity, benefitting drivers and creating revenue for space owners.

Parkopedia Media Contact

Adam Calland Marketing Director

T: +44(0)7838219129

E: adam.calland@parkopedia.com

JustPark Media Contact

Sarah Jackson

T: +44(0)7306256148

E: Sarah.jackson@justpark.com

Ampcontrol Raises $10M Series A for AI-powered EV Fleet Charging Software

July 26, 2023

Ampcontrol Raises $10M Series A for AI-powered EV Fleet Charging Software

 

 

Ampcontrol, a leading AI-powered software solution for fleet operators, today announced $10M in Series A financing to enable its next stage of growth. The round was led by The Westly Group with participation from existing investors AngelPad and Lorimer Ventures.

Fleet operators are facing critical challenges when switching from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. Problems range from high energy costs, low charger reliability, and late departure of vehicles. Since 2019, more than 20 fleet operators across the US, Europe, Latin America, and Africa use Ampcontrol’s software to ensure on-time departures, maintain low energy costs, and reduce EV charger downtime.

Ampcontrol works with some of the largest fleet operators in the world. Customers include WattEV, First Bus, Revel, and one of the largest global commercial truck manufacturers. Customers like Revel are using Ampcontrol’s AI-powered software to save 45%+ on their monthly energy costs.

“We believe Ampcontrol’s innovative AI platform offers the tools we need to optimize and monitor our EV charge points. The company’s vision aligns closely with our goals, and we are thrilled to be working with them” said Ihor Starepravo, Head of Software of WattEV.

After years of consulting with energy companies, Ampcontrol CEO and Founder, Joachim Lohse, leveraged his knowledge of the grid and EV fleets to build software that would help fleet operators maintain a high charger uptime, plan routes, coordinate with energy tariffs, and monitor their vehicles and chargers with live data. This laser focus on electric fleets allows Ampcontrol to support fleets in a variety of industries and use cases, including transportation & logistics, transit buses, rideshare & taxi, food & beverages, and school buses.

Today, Ampcontrol’s software connects to the EV charging hardware and vehicles to make real-time decisions and provide detailed monitoring tools to fleet operators. Ampcontrol offers 24/7 hardware monitoring, OCPP charger communication, fleet management, dynamic load management, V2G integrations, alerts & notification system, and more. The software has a best-in-class uptime of 99.995%, which makes it the most reliable software system in the market for EV fleet charging. Fleet operators also benefit from Ampcontrol’s vehicle telematics integrations with partners such as Geotab.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of The Westly Group to our team, as one of the early investors in Tesla and other electrification companies, they fully embrace our vision for Ampcontrol,” said Ampcontrol CEO and Founder Joachim Lohse. “Building a company does not come with a playbook, and there is no set formula to follow, but with support from partners like The Westly Group, AngelPad and Lorimer Ventures, we are confident in our ability to become the technology leader for electric fleets.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to support Ampcontrol’s vision to become the leading software platform for electric fleets,” said Emily Fritze, Partner at The Westly Group. “Every commercial vehicle manufacturer is moving electric and will need a new suite of tools to manage the operations and energy of their fleet. We have evaluated almost every early-stage company in this sector, and Ampcontrol has built the strongest, most reliable, and advanced charging product in the market.”

About Ampcontrol

Ampcontrol is a leading AI-powered software for electric fleets. Fleet operators use Ampcontrol to reduce EV charger downtime and reduce electric fueling costs. The software connects to the EV charging hardware and vehicle telematics to make real-time decisions and provide detailed monitoring tools to fleet operators. Benefits are on-time departures, a low peak power demand, energy cost reductions, fully charged vehicles, and more. Ampcontrol’s API-based platform allows for easy and seamless compatibility with other existing software systems. The VC-backed company has deployments in the US, Europe, LATAM and Africa.

About The Westly Group

The Westly Group is a venture fund in Menlo Park that invests in energy, mobility, industrial technology, buildings, and cybersecurity and has had nine companies go public including Tesla Motors, Luminar, and SentinelOne. The firm has over $700M AUM and 22 energy and mobility companies invested in the fund including Audi, Geotab, Bridgestone, Oshkosh, AEP, Duke Energy, Dominion Energy, and more.

 

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