Category Archives for: smart city

The world’s leading mobility gathering Intertraffic Amsterdam 2024 – ecosystem united for the future of mobility

April 29, 2024

The world’s leading mobility gathering

 

Intertraffic Amsterdam 2024 – ecosystem united for the future of mobility

 

Intertraffic Amsterdam, the world’s leading trade event for infrastructure, traffic management, smart mobility, safety, and parking concluded an inspiring 2024 edition with a focus on smart, safe, and sustainable mobility for all. With a vastly extended summit programme and the largest show floor in history, it was the global meeting point for senior professionals and policy makers in the mobility sector. Intertraffic Amsterdam is one of RAI Amsterdam’s flagship events and took place from 16 to 19 April 2024.

Global mobility community – 143 countries present
Intertraffic Amsterdam 2024 was home to 850+ exhibiting companies and organisations from 50 countries. Over the four event days, a grand total of nearly 30,000 attendees from 143 countries worldwide engaged with each other and with the 6,000 mobility specialists representing technology vendors, solution providers and stakeholder organisations. Event attendance went up 30% compared to the previous edition with growth predominantly from outside the Netherlands, bringing volume back up to pre-corona standards. Conversations were focused on the future of mobility with public and private sector professionals seeking close cooperation to achieve common goals. The share of international attendance reached an all-time high of 79%. 20% of the international attendees came from outside Europe. 81% of all attendees are involved in the decision-making process and the ample networking opportunities were used to the max. Visitors expressed their appreciation with an unprecedented score of 8.6 and 92% wish to attend again in 2026. Exhibitor satisfaction is illustrated by the fact that 75% of floor space is already reserved for the next edition scheduled for 10 to 13 March 2026.

Abundance of knowledge
The Intertraffic Summit programme ran in 4 large theatres with over 130 sessions and 240+ speakers. This abundance of knowledge was eagerly consumed as some 10,000 theatre check-ins were logged. In essence, the plenary keynote session underscored the imperative for cities and regions to adopt forward-thinking strategies and collaborative approaches to ensure sustainable, resilient, and inclusive mobility for future generations. The presented mobility solutions, urban mobility visions and policy and enforcement guidelines addressed major sector challenges including urgent climate issues, construction, renovation and road maintenance and the rising number of road fatalities. The dedicated Parking Network symposium in Hall 12 was equally well attended as was the case for the many special side events. Over and above, numerous members of the ITS Nationals network were present throughout the week to join forces in accelerating towards smart, safe, and sustainable mobility for all.

Mobility trends that stood out 
One evident theme was stimulating active travel and working towards sustainable and liveable cities, with the emphasis on cooperating in an ecosystem, successful MaaS applications and integrated services, software interoperability, data-driven platforms, inclusivity for all and creating digital infrastructures for MaaS and parking in MaaS offerings.

Another of the latest industry trends was data proliferation that continues to emerge as a focal point of the industry, driving demand for real-time advanced analytics software infused with AI and machine learning capabilities. There is a necessity for software solutions that bridge diverse systems, fostering synergies and accelerating interoperability within the industry. The traffic management sessions highlighted new technologies aimed at enhancing traffic flow, implementing intelligent, safe, and eco-friendly methods for traffic guidance, providing in-car real-time traffic information services, and adopting sustainable traffic management practices.

AI is perhaps the most talked-about element of the smart mobility transition. There’s not a facet of the industry that isn’t powered by, controlled by, influenced by or in the throes of putting some of its decision-making processes into the hands of artificial intelligence. Attendees were also able to learn about new technologies to improve road safety with AI, smart enforcement, and detection solutions, improving intersection safety and creating safer work zone areas, smart mobility applications to warn road users, smart asset management, smart sensor technology, speed and seatbelt enforcement.

The parking sector is repositioning itself as an intrinsic part of the smart mobility transition. Combining parking technology with EV charging, using technology and services to create an optimal customer journey, and the move towards maximising public space is being driven by the notion of sustainable mobility hubs, defined locations in a city where users can access multiple types of shared transportation options, such as e-bikes, scooters and micromobility vehicles. The European Parking Association is playing a leading role in the reinvention of parking as a mobility service and parking as a mobility platform.

The convenient co-location with Amsterdam Drone Week brought unmanned aerial vehicles up close as well as the latest air mobility developments. Embracing air mobility in cities is pivotal for numerous reasons, with sustainability at the forefront.

Market feedback
“The convergence of technology and transportation and the latest innovations are reshaping the sector,” said one enthused exhibitor. “From smart infrastructure to predictive maintenance, Intertraffic illuminated the path toward a more connected and efficient future, where data-driven insights fuel smarter decision-making and optimize transportation networks for the benefit of all.” Joyce de Winter, Director Intertraffic of RAI Amsterdam is delighted with how well Intertraffic Amsterdam 2024 was received. “We are very proud that the whole industry gathers at Intertraffic Amsterdam and that we are at the forefront of mobility innovation. We have seen a rise in the attendance of road authorities and policy makers of cities coming from all around the world. Our expectations have been exceeded in all aspects.”

Disruptive innovators at ITSUP startup event
Disruptive innovators bring the passion, fresh ideas and acceptance of failure that any rapidly evolving industry needs but understandably risk-averse supporters are often reserved about committing to. Intertraffic’s integrated startup event ITSUP allowed starting companies to present their smart mobility solutions to the seasoned Intertraffic audience. All were invited to work on a challenge prepared by sponsor Swarco. To remain successful and innovative, Swarco collaborates with start-ups to generate new ideas. The winner of the ITSUP challenge is embarking on a 6-month acceleration journey together with Swarco, to realize their project from pitch to realization. Swarco announced the winner of the ITSUP contest, with a twist of there not being one winner, but two! “The winner doesn’t only put the puzzle pieces together but also displays connectivity”, the jury stated. The lucky start-ups are Transcality and SMATS Traffic Solutions Inc. Transcality also came out on top in the pitch contest, hence securing a complimentary stand at Intertraffic Amsterdam 2026.

Three winning contestants Intertraffic Award
A theme that marked out two of the winners was noise reduction. Italian company See won the Green Globe Award for its highly innovative Sealed Air Whisper NB-Eco-40-A3 acoustic panels, while UK-based Intelligent Instruments won for its Sound Vue noise-enforcement camera system in the User Experience category. The coveted Inspiration Award was won by another British company Valerann, which particularly impressed the jury with its advanced real-time data analytics platform Lanternn by Valerann.

Photos of Intertraffic Amsterdam 2024 can be downloaded here: www.intertraffic.com/press#gallery

Intertraffic global portfolio
Intertraffic events are staged around the world. Intertraffic Amsterdam is the flagship event with a global focus. Regional events are held in Mexico and China. Next up is Intertraffic China, running from 29 to 31 May 2024 in Beijing. In the following year, Intertraffic Americas will take centre stage from 17 to 19 June 2025 in Mexico City. The next edition of Intertraffic Amsterdam is scheduled for 10 – 13 March 2026. www.intertraffic.com.

About RAI Amsterdam
Personal meetings continue to be a powerful form of communication, and exhibitions are the ideal medium for connecting worlds, people, and markets. With a portfolio of top brands, including Intertraffic, RAI Amsterdam creates inspiring events that blend context, content, and communities. The focus on quality and target group has made RAI Amsterdam the market leader in a significant number of sectors. Wherever in the world an event may take place, RAI Amsterdam’s focus is on generating business for exhibitors, visitors, sponsors, and partners. www.rai.nl

Tulsa International Airport, INCOG and PSO Unveil New EV Chargers, Powering 32 Additional Electric Vehicles

April 24, 2024

Tulsa International Airport, INCOG and PSO Unveil New EV Chargers, Powering 32 Additional Electric Vehicles

 Travelers can easily make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing convenience when flying out of TUL.

 

TULSA, Oklahoma  – On this Earth Day, Tulsa International Airport proudly unveiled additional state-of-the-art Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers located in the airport’s parking garage, which will accommodate an additional 32 vehicles. This project, which was realized through a collaboration with the Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG), Tulsa International Airport and Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), marks a significant milestone in the airport’s commitment to embracing green technology and providing additional services for its passengers.

Leaders from each organization spoke on their organizations’ excitement for the project, and their commitment to investing in sustainable infrastructure. To add to the fun, local dealerships had a variety of electric vehicles on display, showcasing the latest in EV technology and design.

Funding Sources and In-Kind Donations

  • INCOG: $500,000.00 (Given through a Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant)
  • Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust (TUL): $632,976.35 Total hard costs = $1,131,976.35
  • PSO provided equipment such as power cables, electrical transformers and switchgear boxes to support the This tremendous gift along with their time on the project has a total value of approximately $200,000.

The additional install of the 16 new Zevtron dual, level 2, charging stations which supports 32 vehicles in Tulsa International Airport’s parking garage and one shuttle bus in the Economy Lot, is only the first stage of this project. An additional 16 chargers for the parking garage, 30 chargers in the Economy Lotand 4 shuttle bus charging stations will be installed at a later date, as the need develops.

“Our commitment to environmental responsibility is unwavering, and today’s ribbon cutting ceremony marks another milestone in our journey towards a greener tomorrow. By expanding our EV charging infrastructure, we empower travelers to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing convenience”, said Alexis Higgins, Tulsa International Airport CEO. “This project would not have been possible without the support of both INCOG and PSO. We are so proud to have worked with them and are grateful for their generous gifts.

“INCOG is pleased to have collaborated with the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust and PSO to fund these electric vehicle charging stations. INCOG’s was able to secure and provide $500,000 in federal funding through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program for this project.” Said Tulsa County Commissioner, Karen Keith who also serves as Chair of the INCOG Board of Directors.

“As we unveil these new EV charging stations, we’re not just powering vehicles; we’re fueling a stronger future,” said Leigh Anne Strahler, President & Chief Operating Officer of PSO. “Our commitment to our customers and our communities drives us to innovate and provide a reliable charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, ensuring a brighter tomorrow.”

“We are excited to be partnering with Tulsa International Airport on this project,” said Zevtron founderBob Andrews. “Our software provides extraordinary operational flexibility, allowing the airport to manageEV charging for multiple user groups, including travelers, electric shuttles, and others that may emergein the future. It also provides flexibility to allow the airport to monetize EV charging and keep the EV revenues it earns.”

The new EV Charger project is just one of several major plans within Tulsa International Airport’s multi-year growth plan. Learn more about the other projects at http://www.propeltul.com.

 To view and download photos and videos from today’s opening event, click here. Photos and videos can be used for social media, web or on-air.

About Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust: Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust (TAIT) administers, manages and operates Tulsa International Airport (TUL) and Tulsa Riverside Airport (RVS), both of which are owned by the City of Tulsa. TAIT’s mission is to provide a safe, efficient, self-supporting airport system for the citizens of the Tulsa metropolitan area and surrounding region.

About Tulsa International Airport: Five air carriers offer nonstop service from TUL to 22 destinations across the country. In 2023, the airport had the highest number of annual passengers since 2008 with atotal of 3.14 million passengers. For more information visit www.flytulsa.com.

About INCOG: The Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG) is a voluntary association of local and tribal governments in the Tulsa metropolitan area in northeast Oklahoma.

Established in 1967, INCOG is one of 11 Councils of Governments in the State of Oklahoma, and one of several hundred regional planning organizations across the country. INCOG provides planning and coordination services to assist in creating solutions to local and regional challenges in such areas ascomprehensive planning, transportation, community and economic development, environmental qualityand energy programs, public safety, and services for older adults. INCOG serves Creek, Osage, Rogers,Tulsa, and Wagoner counties, more than 50 cities and towns located in those counties, and the Cherokee, Muscogee, and Osage Nations.

About PSO:

PSO, a unit of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), is an electric utility company serving more than 572,734 customer accounts in eastern and southwestern Oklahoma, powering a cleaner, brighter energy future for its customers and 232 communities. Based in Tulsa, PSO has approximately 3,800 megawatts of diverse generating capacity that primarily includes wind and natural gas. It maintains and operates more than 24,000 miles of distribution lines and 3,700 miles of transmission lines and is one of the largest distributors of wind energy in the state. Find news releases and other information at www.PSOklahoma.com and information about electric vehicles at www.gettoknowev.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, NextDoor and Instagram @PSOklahoma.

About Zevtron: Zevtron is a leading national EV software and hardware provider based in Carlsbad, California. The company’s products and services are designed to provide flexibility, manageability, andprofitability to building owners, institutions, and parking owners who offer EV charging. Zevtron is the only leading EV provider to integrate its technology with leading parking access and revenue control equipment for easy and convenient EV charging management, and its hardware agnostic software platform allows owners to keep 100% of EV charging revenues. Zevtron can be found online at www.Zevtron.com.

EnSight Technologies’ Groundbreaking Parking Guidance Technology Goes Live in Stockton, California

April 24, 2024

 

 

 

EnSight Technologies’ Groundbreaking Parking Guidance Technology Goes Live in Stockton, California

 

 

 

San Diego, CA — EnSight Technologies announced today that its groundbreaking parking guidance technology has gone live in Stockton, California’s Arena, Market Street, and SEB/El Dorado Street parking garages. Each of the garages is now equipped with state-of-the-art parking guidance cameras, interior wayfinding signs, and EnSight’s industry leading EnSightful Platform. The addition of EnSight’s parking guidance technology provides a safer and more convenient parking experience in each of the City of Stockton’s garages.

“This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both EnSight Technologies and the City of Stockton,” said Chris Scheppman, managing partner of EnSight Technologies. “We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformative period for the City’s parking initiatives.”

Altogether, EnSight Technologies installed 21 FLI cameras throughout the Arena, Market Street, and SEB/El Dorado Street garages to monitor parking occupancy in each garage. That occupancy data is transmitted in real time to 16 interior level count signs that guide drivers to available parking spaces. By guiding drivers directly to open spaces, the system can reduce the amount of time it takes to find a parking space by up to 63%.

About EnSight Technologies

EnSight Technologies is a parking technology company that has set out to simplify parking guidance with smart technology. EnSight’s smart, simple and scalable technology ecosystem provides a cost-effective parking guidance alternative to parking owners and operators of all sizes. The company can be found on the Internet at www.ensight-technologies.com.

 

One Parking Partners with Parking Logix and eleven-x for Optimal Parking Efficiency for the City of Delray Beach, FL

April 24, 2024

 

 

 

One Parking Partners with Parking Logix and eleven-x for Optimal Parking Efficiency for the City of Delray Beach, FL

 

 

Delray Beach, Florida – One Parking is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Parking Logix and eleven-x® to enhance parking efficiency in the vibrant coastal city of Delray Beach, Florida. Together, they are digitizing 16 surface lots and 1,200 on-street parking spaces, radically transforming the parking experience for residents and visitors.

The new initiative, which leverages Parking Logix’s OpenSpace technology and eleven-x’s eXactpark™ system, will allow drivers to check public parking availability for on and off-street parking spaces via the city’s website. It will eliminate the frustration of reaching downtown areas and wasting valuable time searching for parking by matching drivers with available parking spots. The wayfinding project is being administered by One Parking, a leading parking management company that manages over 50,000 self-parking and valet spaces across the United States.

The goal of the One Parking initiative is to alleviate the common complaint of insufficient parking in the popular Florida beach town by providing real-time parking data at drivers’ fingertips. Sensors will be placed in on and off-street parking assets, which will convey real-time parking data to the city’s website, where drivers can view detailed parking data to assist in finding local parking. “As the chosen manager of the City of Delray’s parking operations and for One Parking, I can state that Parking Logix and eleven-x were able to work effectively and collaboratively here in service of the City’s best interests,” said Mark Pratt, President of One Parking. “One Parking believes very much in finding the right combination of technology components to meet the needs of each client’s unique needs in a bespoke manner. Vendors that are willing to partner, versus always trying to compete, provide the highest value. One Parking is proud to be the more innovative parking operator that brings key solution partners together for the best final outcome for all of our clients nationwide.”

Parking Logix’ OpenSpace technology is a game-changer in the world of parking solutions. This smart, solar-powered system uses innovative sensor technology to monitor and manage parking spaces accurately. It provides real-time data on parking availability, helping drivers find parking spaces quickly and efficiently. The sensors are easy to install, require minimal maintenance, and are designed to withstand various weather conditions, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The data gathered by sensors is accessible via the Logix on Cloud interface, a user-friendly platform that provides comprehensive insights and analytics for better parking management. Data can also be shared to LED signage, Parking Logix’s Parker Mobile app, as well as third-party websites and apps via robust API integration. “Partnering with One Parking and eleven-x to implement our OpenSpace technology in Delray Beach is a testament to our commitment to providing innovative parking solutions,” said Todd Tucker, President of Parking Logix. “By digitizing surface lots and on-street parking spaces, we’re not just improving efficiency; we’re enhancing the overall parking experience for residents and visitors alike. This collaboration underscores our dedication to creating smarter, more connected cities through technology.”

eleven-x’s award-winning eXactpark™ system will improve the parking experience in Delray Beach for both drivers and the parking management team by deploying their patented SPS-X sub-surface stall sensors into the city’s on-street parking stalls to monitor individual parking spaces. Utilizing advanced wireless technology, the sensors will last for a decade ensuring accurate and reliable space usage data collection to help the city understand parking patterns and trends which will have a positive impact on programs and future planning. Additionally, the sensors will also enable a public website which will show, in real-time, where available parking spaces are located, helping drivers find parking faster. “We are excited to help the city of Delray Beach deliver the best parking experience for their community by delivering the most accurate, “true” occupancy monitoring of their on-street spaces. Our platform will help get drivers into spaces quicker, while also providing the city with 24/7/365 data and insights to help deliver better programs and services,” said Dan Mathers, CEO at eleven-x.

Parking Logix will equip the city’s 16 surface lots and garages, totaling over 1,700 off-street parking spots, with its solar-powered OpenSpace sensors. These devices capture and share data in real time to the city website and Logix on Cloud interface. eleven-x will outfit 1,200 on-street parking spaces in Delray Beach with eXactpark. The combination of these technologies ensures optimal accuracy for drivers and optimal cost-effectiveness for the city. Additionally, the city will gain access to detailed reports and analytic data, providing actionable insights to further improve parking management and planning.

About One Parking

One Parking, Inc. has over 20 years of experience, managing 135+ locations in 11 cities with 50,000+ spaces. It pioneers technology such as 2-way audio/video conflict resolution offered by Parker Technologies. it is the first parking operator to push real-time count information to the dashboard for dozens of automotive brands. One Parking is committed to a reduction in carbon emissions via the use of its proprietary technology and by partnering with trustworthy brands like eleven-x and Parking Logix.  For more information on the use of these disparate technologies to develop an information ecosystem, email One Parking President Mark Pratt at mpratt@oneparking.com.

About Parking Logix

Parking Logix, headquartered in Montreal, manufactures easy-to-install, intuitive and affordable cloud-based solutions, providing the highest industry accuracy in occupancy data. The data is available in real-time, and the system can be solar-powered, avoiding excessive costs associated with grid-powered solutions. For more information, contact Parking Logix President Todd Tucker at ttucker@parkinglogix.com.

About eleven-x™

eleven-x™ focuses on improving the parking experience for all with its award-winning, smart parking technology solution, eXactpark™. A comprehensive software platform, eXactpark enables drivers to find available parking quickly and easily in real-time with accurate and reliable 24/7 data to enable numerous use cases. The solution is being utilized by cities and institutions across North America to successfully address mobility challenges. For more information, contact eleven-x CEO Dan Mathers at dan.mathers@eleven-x.com.

Parinaz Farzin

Above Par PR

parinaz@aboveparpr.com

SP Plus Corporation to Manage New On-Street Parking System for the City of Jackson, Mississippi

April 23, 2024

SP Plus Corporation to Manage New On-Street Parking System for the City of Jackson, Mississippi

 

 

CHICAGO, April 23, 2024  — SP+® Corporation (SP+), (Nasdaq: SP) a best-in-class technology and operations management provider of mobility services for aviation, commercial, hospitality, and institutional clients throughout North America and Europe, today announces its strategic partnership with the City of Jackson, Mississippi, to modernize and enhance the efficiency of on-street parking with a completely new and innovative system.

Available this spring, on-street parking customers will be able to pay for parking using new kiosks located throughout the city, in addition to other payment methods, including text-to-pay with their phone, or via the parking.com app. SP+ Corporation will also assist the city with parking enforcement activities. These efforts will be streamlined by providing vehicles equipped with License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology to enforce expired meter parking and time-limited parking. SP+ will also provide Parking Ambassadors to assist in educating the public on how to use the new parking system, as well as to answer any questions.

SP+ and the City of Jackson collectively developed a customized program geared towards public safety and to support downtown commerce. The new system will allow for parking space turnover and availability, providing convenience and accessibility to everyone visiting the city.

“We are excited to announce the upgrade of our parking meter system in downtown Jackson,” said Chokwe Antar Lumumba, Mayor, City of Jackson. “This modernized system will result in greater parking space availability and convenience for residents and visitors to Jackson. We look forward to this rollout and informing residents of the details.”

“We’re extremely thrilled to support the City of Jackson and bring this project to life,” said Jason Spoeth, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, SP+ Corporation. “We see this as part of a bigger picture – the continued revitalization of downtown (Jackson). We are providing the technology so residents and visitors will have flexible options in how they pay for parking.”

The City of Jackson is the capital of Mississippi, and the most populous city in the state, with upwards of 430,000 residents.

About SP+

SP+ (spplus.com) develops and integrates industry-leading technology with best-in-class operations management and support to deliver mobility solutions that enable the efficient and time-sensitive movement of people, vehicles, and personal travel belongings. With over 20,000 team members located throughout North America and Europe, SP+ is committed to providing solutions that make every moment matter for a world on the go.

SP+ CONTACT:

William Rongey
Director of Corporate Communications
wrongey@spplus.com

 

Mark Talbot Joins Q-Free as Executive Chair

April 22, 2024

 

 

 

Mark Talbot Joins Q-Free as Executive Chair

 

 

  • Talbot will lead a team of 370 people in 15 countries and is fully committed to continuing Q-Free’s growth trajectory in the smart mobility market.
  • He brings extensive global ITS leadership and a track record of innovation and customer-focused strategies to the position.

 

 

Trondheim, Norway – Q-Free, a global leader in mobility solutions for smart city infrastructure, announced today that Mark Talbot joined the company as Executive Chair, effective April 2, 2024. He will lead the company, overseeing all aspects of day-to-day operations, innovation, sales, marketing, growth, and long-term vision. Talbot brings global leadership experience, steering Q-Free at an important time for the company as it recently transitioned to private ownership.

Building on Success

As a transportation technology and smart mobility leader for more than 25 years, Talbot has witnessed Q-Free’s growth in size and influence. One of his main priorities will be to build on that growth moving forward. “I couldn’t be more excited. What I admire most about the company is the fact it has maintained its position as a market leader for over 40 years; consistently developing and deploying innovative solutions for intelligent transportation and smart mobility,” he said. “Our clients want to partner with companies that have a history of performance delivering high value solutions to address their long-standing transportation challenges. Q-Free is positioned to deliver technology-driven solutions, improving mobility for everyone well into the future.”

The company has a major presence in the United States, Europe and the Asia/Pacific region, employing approximately 370 people in 15 countries. In 2024, Q-Free is celebrating its fortieth anniversary.

A Perfect Fit

This is not Talbot’s first time at the helm of a major, global ITS company. As Managing Director and Group CEO of Redflex Holdings Limited from 2017 to 2021, he led a company with operations throughout the Asia Pacific region, North America, Europe, and the Middle East. “I thoroughly enjoy working with clients to deliver solutions addressing their most intractable problems,” he said. “Ensuring safe and efficient mobility improves the livability of a community and drives broad economic growth. I look forward to working with the team of professionals at Q-Free who for over 40 years, have developed leading technology and provided the highest levels of service to drive value for their clients and stakeholders.”

Before joining Redflex, Talbot served as the General Manager of State and Local Solutions of Conduent (formerly Xerox). He also worked nine years in Xerox’s Transportation Segment, rising to Group President, Americas, directing a portfolio of transportation-related businesses.

Talbot holds a Bachelor of Science from Catholic University of America and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Maryland.

About Q-Free

Q-Free is a global leader in intelligent transportation systems, spearheading innovative solutions for tolling, traffic management, and active transportation. Embracing innovation and harnessing the power of technology, we address daily mobility challenges, shaping a future where people, goods, and data travel safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

With a four-decade legacy, Q-Free’s vision extends beyond geographical boundaries, serving customers worldwide in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas.

To learn more about how Q-Free is shaping the future of intelligent transportation, visit www.q-free.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Barnacle Parking Enters Pilot Program With the New York City Police Department

April 19, 2024

 

Barnacle Parking Enters Pilot Program With the New York City Police Department

 

 

Intelligent parking enforcement device company helps the country’s largest police municipality solve parking compliance issues while improving officer safety

 

 

EDISON, N.J. Barnacle Parking, the producer of The Barnacle®, an intelligent parking enforcement solution with motorist self-release capabilities, today announced its engagement with the New York City Police Department (NYPD). During a pilot program, the NYPD will assess the Barnacle’s ability to improve parking management and promote fairness and efficiency for all New York City residents and visitors.

EV Connect, Flash and Qmerit Partner to Set New Standard for Reservable Parking, Charging Experience

April 16, 2024

 

 

 

EV Connect, Flash and Qmerit Partner to Set New Standard for Reservable Parking, Charging Experience

EV Connect, Flash, and Qmerit’s alliance will help bridge gap in charging infrastructure with a seamless, reliable and predictable driver experience

 

 

AUSTIN, TX & EL SEGUNDO, CA, April 16, 2024 – EV ConnectFlash, and Qmerit—pioneers in the electric vehicle (EV) charging, parking technology, and EV implementation and maintenance fields, respectively—today announced a partnership that will accelerate the expansion of EV charging solutions by uniting an integrated charging management platform by EV Connect, the scale of Flash’s North American digital infrastructure, and the installation, integration, and maintenance services offered by Qmerit. The companies are combining these services to provide a seamless, reservable parking and charging experience for drivers while simplifying management for asset owners and operators. In doing so, the partners address the issues of management, reliability, discoverability, and usability that have slowed the nation’s transition to EVs.

Each partner will contribute their specialized technology and services: Flash’s innovative cloud-based parking technology ecosystem with over 10,000 parking assets and digital demand network exceeding 100 million drivers via native partner integrations; EV Connect’s leading software platform and services for electric vehicle charging networks; and Qmerit’s leading expertise in electrification infrastructure, installation and maintenance services.

EV drivers using Flash’s network through one of its many native integrations will now be able to access chargers on the EV Connect network and vice versa. This allows users to predictably and reliably find, reserve, access, and pay for charging when they park, all via a single platform and a single payment. The integration will likewise tie together the various aspects of parking- and charging management by giving asset owners and operators one hassle-free platform supported by Qmerit’s installation and service options.

The Problem: a Charging Crisis

The rapid and accelerating adoption of EVs in the United States—EV sales in 2023 were up more than 50% from the previous year—presents a significant problem: the expansion of the nationwide EV charging network must outpace demand or become a limiting factor for electrification as a whole. Much of the focus on closing this gap is concerned with public, government-funded charging infrastructure, which must exceed a forecasted 1.2 million chargers by 2030 in order to support demand, per the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The same report calls for 28 million private chargers, including the commercial sector, which must evidently bear the vast majority of the EV charging burden. To reach those goals, the existing charger network will have to increase twenty-fold.

“The transition to EV in this decade requires all-hands-on-deck, especially as the next generation of EV adopters make the switch, and we can’t rely on public charging infrastructure alone,” said Dan Sharplin, CEO at Flash. “Facilities with private parking, from retail and hospitality to events and community venues, are a key part of the solution, and must be prepared to meet EV driver expectations.”

The EV charging crisis can be attributed to a wide range of causes, not the least of which are a lack in quality and ease-of-use. The inconvenience of finding an accessible parking spot with a well-functioning charger deters consumers, making them less likely to value or use the installed base of private-sector chargers. This, in turn, has discouraged investment by commercial operators who may be reluctant to take on the management and maintenance of a charging system.

The Solution: Streamlined Parking, Charging, and Maintenance Experience

Making the EV experience more convenient, accessible, predictable, and reliable will minimize the friction experienced by drivers and encourage the adoption of EV charging systems on commercial properties—a clear necessity for overcoming the charging crisis at large. The partnership between EV Connect, Flash, and Qmerit is designed to serve as an important part of that solution, while enhancing the return on investment for the commercial sector.

“Our state-of-the-art EV charging technology is a key component to driving this partnership forward, representing a significant leap with unmatched reliability, performance and uptime through our Network Operations Center and round-the-clock customer support,” said Daniel Bryant, VP of Customer Operations for EV Connect.

Beyond the task of connecting the driver with accessible parking-and-charging stations, fulfilled by Flash, high-quality, well-managed, and thoroughly-maintained equipment is essential for growing the charging network. EV Connect will help ensure station reliability and access with comprehensive management and customer service, while Qmerit will provide private operators with the installation and maintenance support they need.

“We’re excited to bring our top-tier implementation and maintenance services to this partnership, laying the foundation for a robust and efficient charging network. With a 26% increase in publicly available EV chargers and a 59% surge in EV sales in the first three quarters of 2023, as reported by J.D. Power, our partnership aims to expand reservable infrastructure, catering to the rising demand for combined parking and charging solutions,” said Tracy Price, founder and CEO of Qmerit.

What Comes Next?

Over the next 12 months, a series of new agreements with major operators in the hospitality, events, and mixed-use sectors will be announced, together with details about where and when the unified system of parking and charging will be made available to the public. As a result, it is expected that thousands of new ports will be installed this year.

 

About EV Connect:

EV Connect is on a mission to build a better planet by enabling electricity as a transportation fuel. Through its innovative and open charging platform, EV Connect simplifies the set-up, management, and optimization of charging stations with premium customer service, from installation to driver support. EV Connect guides companies of all sizes in managing charger networks and delivers a seamless EV charging experience that empowers drivers. Established in 2010, EV Connect is a subsidiary of Schneider Electric that serves customers across North America, Europe, and Australia including GM, Avista Utilities, Marriott, Hilton, New York Power Authority, Dominos, Skycharger, and Evie Networks. For more information, please visit www.evconnect.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Flash:

Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations — connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more.

 

About Qmerit:

Qmerit is North America’s leading provider of implementation solutions for EV charging and other energy transition technologies, simplifying electrification adoption for residential and business markets. Qmerit’s value-driven services are delivered through a network of company-owned contractors, independent Certified Solutions Partners, and Certified Installers skilled in system implementation and integration. Qmerit partners with top automakers from the U.S., Europe and Asia. It boasts high customer experience (NPS) scores well above the industry average. Qmerit has just issued a white paper, Electrification2030, that examines issues pivotal to broad EV adoption and greater home and building electrification by 2030. For more information, visit https://qmerit.com/, and connect on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

 

Duncan Solutions Appoints Jason Sutton as Senior Vice President, Parking and Mobility Solutions

April 16, 2024

Duncan Solutions Appoints Jason Sutton as Senior Vice President, Parking and Mobility Solutions

 

 

HORSEHEADS, N.Y.  — Duncan Solutions, a full-service transportation management company and a leading provider of parking and tolling management solutions, is pleased to welcome Jason Sutton as Senior Vice President, Parking and Mobility Solutions.

“Jason brings decades of experience and an established track record of driving innovation in our industry,” says James Kennedy, Chief Operating Officer, Duncan Solutions. “His forward-looking thought leadership will be invaluable as we continue growing our business, serving our clients, evolving our solutions, expanding our partnerships, and redefining mobility for motorists nationwide.”

“I am very excited to join Team Duncan,” says Sutton. “I’m deeply inspired by Duncan’s client partnerships, growth trajectory, and commitments to corporate responsibility and service excellence. I look forward to helping lead this dynamic parking program into the future.”

Prior to joining Duncan Solutions, Sutton held numerous leadership positions in the mobility space, including roles with SP Plus Corporation and most recently with Passport, Inc. Sutton’s influence as a thought leader will be on display immediately, as he will share his insights in the April episode of Barnacle’s Parking Happiness Podcast, in the May issue of International Parking & Mobility Institute’s (IPMI) Parking & Mobility magazine, during a Southwest Parking & Transportation Association (SWAPTA) webinar in June, and at the 2024 IPMI Parking & Mobility Conference & Expo in June.

Duncan Solutions also announces the departure of Marc Lucey, who had been with the company since 2012. “Marc’s impact on our business’s growth and evolution has been immeasurable,” says Kennedy. “We thank him for his years of dedicated service and leadership, and we wish him continued success at Park Loyalty.”

About Duncan Solutions
Duncan Solutions – part of the Navient family of companies – is a full-service transportation management company and a leading provider of parking and tolling management solutions. Duncan supports government and commercial clients with citation processing, debt collection, DMV registered owner identification, back-office transaction processing, omnichannel customer service center operations, and integrated on-street parking management solutions. Learn more at duncansolutions.com.

 

Ocra Announces Oversubscribed $3.5M Fundraise Led By Parker Technology & MCR Hotels

April 15, 2024

 

 

 

Ocra Announces Oversubscribed $3.5M Fundraise Led By Parker Technology & MCR Hotels

Today Ocra announces its successful raise of $3.5 million in strategic capital in an oversubscribed round led by Parker Technology, a leading technology-led services company in the parking industry, and MCR Hotels, the third largest hotel owner-operator in the United States.

Other strategic partners contributing to the round include Callahan Family Office, HB Companies, Helene Ventures, Long Run Capital, Sunstone Management, and more.

Originally targeted at $3 million, this oversubscribed round reflects a strong vote of confidence in the company’s vision, team, and technology.

It represents alignment from strategic investors on the team’s mission to build the API layer that connects siloed technologies to the outcomes of centralized operations and substantial revenue growth for parking operators and parking asset owners across all sectors of the industry.

“Every dollar of capital we raise is in the spirit of staying vendor-neutral and supports our vision of being the API layer of this industry,” says Ethan Glass, CEO & Co-Founder of Ocra. “This round creates alignment between our company and other industry leaders, as every investor adds tremendous value beyond the capital.”

This infusion of capital plays a crucial role in driving innovation across product lines and enriching Ocra’s centralized demand channel management platform with new features and integrations.

It also allows the company to double down on its core competencies of demand channel expertise and data-driven revenue optimization for parking assets as offered through its managed services model: Ocra CoPilot.

Additionally, this round supports the continued recruitment of top talent for Engineering, Operations, and Revenue who elevate Ocra’s service level and produce even stronger revenue outcomes for its partners.

To learn more, contact the Ocra Team at info@getocra.com.

Press Contact:

Sarah Becherer
VP Marketing

sarah@getocra.com

617-869-3817

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