Uber is pushing further past ride-hailing with the launch of Uber Parking, which brings SpotHero’s reservation tools directly into the Uber app. The rollout follows the February announcement that Uber would acquire the parking startup.
Uber Parking lets riders find garages and lots near where they’re headed and book a space ahead of time. To use it, people tap the new Parking icon in the Uber app, enter a destination, and browse an interactive map of available spots. Results can be filtered by factors such as self-parking versus valet service and other amenities.
Users need to enter their car’s make, model, and license plate number to book a spot. Depending on the lot, Uber provides a QR code or uses license plate recognition for entry. According to Uber, most parking options can be canceled for free before the start time, and reservations can be extended through the app. Uber One subscribers receive 10 percent back in Uber credits on eligible reservations.
SpotHero’s network spanned more than 400 cities in the U.S. and Canada, according to Uber’s acquisition announcement, but Uber Parking launches with a much narrower footprint. Initial availability is limited to 15 U.S. markets: Chicago, Nashville, San Francisco, Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Diego, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.
There’s another idea on the table too. Uber says it wants to try using these lots as a place to park and stage the self-driving cars operated by its autonomous partners.
Maybe you would like other interesting articles?