NTT DATA, Valeo, and Embotech announced the next big step to provide automated parking solutions. Together, the three companies have built a consortium, VEN.AI, that aims to be the go-to solution provider for production ready parking automation with global roll out capabilities. The consortium combines each company's core competencies including owned IP, the latest technology, sales and support structure and strong operations offerings.

VEN.AI offers an infrastructure-based solution that has very few requirements from the vehicle side as it guides vehicles via the use of sensors, connectivity (e.g., 5G) and offboard computing to a dedicated parking spot. Automated parking solutions can be implemented in a variety of use cases including the assembly plants where vehicles are produced, outbound-logistics distribution parks, depots for vehicle fleets operators, retail outlets as well as in parking garages as an automated valet service. In the initial phase, VEN.AI is focusing on manufacturing-specific use cases to help car manufacturers increase the efficiency of their assembly lines by automatically guiding vehicles from one production station to another.

From here, it will then drive the vehicle from the end of the assembly line to its dedicated spot on the large launch areas. The outcome is a more efficient assembly line, saving on time and costs. Safety is a key component of VEN.AI by integrating the latest technology innovations including the use of cameras, light detection, low-latency connectivity and sensors.

The system has been designed to fulfill the highest requirements and standards on safety and availability and has the best-in-class building components including Embotech PRODRIVER®. This SAE L4 virtual driver is designed to provide fully flexible, human-like driving, which is a key enabler of automated driving in busy logistics areas with mixed traffic as well as parking into very tight spaces, increasing the space efficiency. Additionally, VEN.AI is integrating the parking automation solution within global production systems, adding automated charging for electric vehicles, and using internal onboard sensors to improve efficiency and flexibility in large parking areas.

The global roll out also includes 24/7 operations support.