Ford’s New Patent Could Minimize Walking in Multi-Level Parking Structures

Ford’s New Patent Could Minimize Walking in Multi-Level Parking Structures

Posted on February 8, 2025

Ford is working on a new innovation designed to make parking easier and reduce the amount of walking required in multi-level parking garages. Recently, the company filed a patent for a system that will help drivers find the closest available parking spot to an exit, stairs, or elevator, potentially revolutionizing the way we park. The patent was officially filed on June 12th, 2023, and published on December 12th, 2024, under serial number 0412633.

The patent addresses a common challenge in parking structures: drivers often park in the first available spot they find, regardless of its proximity to the desired exit. This can lead to unnecessary walking, which, although it has health benefits, can be frustrating when in a hurry. Ford’s new system aims to alleviate this problem by helping drivers locate open spots that are closer to their destination within the parking structure.

The proposed system works by identifying unoccupied parking spaces and notifying drivers if one is available closer to an exit, even if it’s on a different floor. This would allow drivers to save time and avoid the usual effort of walking long distances through parking garages. Whether you’re rushing to catch a flight or simply don’t want to trek across a large parking lot, this system could make parking much more efficient.

This new patent builds on Ford’s ongoing efforts to improve the parking experience, including previous innovations like an active parking assistant that can autonomously handle steering, throttle control, and transmission during parking. With advancements in connected vehicle technology, this latest patent highlights Ford's commitment to making parking easier and more convenient for drivers in the future.