“For Bosch, automated valet parking brings together our deep cross-domain experience in mobility and building technologies to deliver a smart infrastructure solution that improves everyday life,” said Mike Mansuetti, president of Bosch in North America. “This technology enables consumers to see the benefit of highly automated technology as the vehicle handles a task such as parking in a garage.”

Upon arriving into the garage, a driver will leave the vehicle in a designated area and use a smartphone app to send the vehicle into an automated parking manoeuvre. Drivers will also use the app to request the return of the vehicle to the designated pick-up area, expediting the parking experience and removing the responsibility of finding the vehicle upon return to the garage.

New mobility requires collaboration

The demonstration project at Assembly Garage brings together one of the world’s largest automakers, Ford, the largest property developer in the City of Detroit, Bedrock, and the world’s largest automotive supplier, Bosch, to demonstrate how organisations are working together on new mobility initiatives.

“Michigan continues to lead the way through unprecedented investments in the smart infrastructure that is critical to developing and deploying the most advanced forms of mobility,” said Garland Gilchrist II, Lt Governor. “With the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, we are ensuring our state solidifies its position not only in the manufacturing of advanced automobiles, but also in the future of smart, connected roadways and parking areas. We will continue finding innovative ways to work with partners across both the public and private sector to deliver real-world solutions to today’s transportation challenges.”

The demonstration project will enable the three companies to gain valuable insights regarding user experience, vehicle design, parking structure design and application to expand the technology and its application.

“The City of Detroit continues to be at the forefront of mobility and the heart of the automotive industry,” said Mike Duggan, mayor of the City of Detroit. “Ford has a long and storied history with the Motor City and it is exciting to see them collaborate with Bosch and Bedrock on this innovative effort to propel the region into the future of mobility. I look forward to the day when Detroit residents and visitors alike will see a benefit from future technologies such as automated valet parking – it will undoubtedly save space in our garages and make the entire parking experience more convenient.”