High-tech parking meters detect vehicles and charge accordingly

KERBspace is using tech to help parking meter operators to make the ticketing process more seamless.

Parking in the city can be a nightmare, which is why startups such as ParkTag have aimed to use crowdsourced data to let drivers know when a space becomes free near them. Now KERBspace is using tech to help parking meter operators to make the ticketing process more seamless.

Having trialled the system in Montana recently, the KERBspace system replaces the traditional parking meter with a sleek, wifi-enabled post with a dynamic display. The devices use sensors to detect when a parking spot is empty or full, as well as the type of vehicle parked. This allows local authorities and companies to deliver flexible charging to drivers based on the space they take up. Users can pay via credit card or their smartphone and receive alerts when their time is about to run out, giving them the option to move their car or remotely top up their ticket.

The smart meters allow parking payments to become more convenient for drivers, boosting revenue for operators. The meters also send data to authorities, enabling them to make better decisions and alerting them of infractions as soon as they happen. The dynamic displays can also provide extra income avenues through relevant third-party advertising. Are there other ways technology could enhance typically-offline street furniture?

Spotted by: Russ Fletcher