Uber Adds Parking Reservations to Its App

Uber introduced a parking reservation option in its app on November 9, allowing drivers to search for and book spaces before reaching their destinations. The service, called Uber Parking, draws on SpotHero, which Uber acquired earlier this year, and is set to expand beyond its initial markets over time.

Users can browse an interactive map showing available garages and lots, prices and arrival information. Search filters include options such as valet or self-parking and indoor or outdoor spaces. To reserve, customers enter their car’s make, model and license plate. Some facilities allow entry with a QR code, while others use license-plate recognition.

Reservations can be extended in the app. Most available options can be canceled without charge until the reservation begins, Uber says. Uber One members can receive 10 percent back in credits on eligible bookings, which can be used for Uber services.

The service starts in 15 cities: Washington, D.C.; Seattle; San Diego; Philadelphia; New York City; Miami; Los Angeles; Denver; Dallas; Boston; Austin; Atlanta; San Francisco; Nashville; and Chicago. SpotHero’s network includes more than 13,000 facilities in over 400 cities in the United States and Canada.

Uber also plans to explore using parking lots as places for autonomous vehicles operated by its partners to wait between trips. The company works with more than 30 autonomous-vehicle partners, and says keeping unused vehicles off city streets could reduce traffic, emissions and vehicle wear.