ParkMe
ParkMe, founded in Santa Monica, California, was a real-time parking startup that developed a comprehensive database of parking spaces worldwide, offering drivers the ability to find, compare, reserve, and pay for parking via mobile apps and in-car navigation systems.
Profile
Helps drivers find, reserve, and pay for parking in real-time via mobile apps and in-car systems.
ParkMe, founded in Santa Monica, California, was a real-time parking startup that developed a comprehensive database of parking spaces worldwide, offering drivers the ability to find, compare, reserve, and pay for parking via mobile apps and in-car navigation systems. The company was acquired by INRIX in September 2015 for an undisclosed sum, integrating its parking services into INRIX's broader suite of driving intelligence tools. At the time of acquisition, ParkMe's database included over 29 million parking spaces across 84,184 locations in 3,232 cities and 64 countries.
The acquisition aimed to enhance INRIX's offerings for automakers like Audi, BMW, and Lexus, as well as transportation agencies. ParkMe's co-founders, Sam Friedman and Alex Israel, transitioned to roles within INRIX, with Friedman noting the deal would accelerate their mission to simplify parking for consumers. Post-acquisition, ParkMe continued operating from its Santa Monica office, maintaining its brand and apps. Alex Israel later founded Metropolis Technologies, another parking tech company, which acquired SP Plus in 2023 for $1.5 billion.
Who buys this
- Urban drivers seeking parking solutions
- Automakers integrating parking data into navigation systems
- Municipal transportation agencies
- Parking facility operators
- Commercial real estate owners
Publicly disclosed clients
- Audi
- BMW
- Lexus
- Colonial Parking
- Toyota
Strengths and what to watch
Strengths
- Largest global parking database with 29 million spaces at acquisition
- Integration with major automakers' in-car systems
- Real-time occupancy and payment capabilities
Watch for
- Dependence on INRIX post-acquisition for product development
- Competition from newer parking tech startups like Metropolis
- Potential data accuracy challenges in dynamic urban environments
Key Information
- Founded
- 2009
- Headquarters
- Santa Monica, California
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ParkMe and how does it work?
ParkMe was a parking technology platform that helped drivers find, reserve, and pay for parking spaces in real-time. Through mobile apps and in-car systems, users could access its database of 29 million spaces across 64 countries, comparing prices and availability instantly.
When was ParkMe acquired and by which company?
INRIX acquired ParkMe in September 2015 to enhance its driving intelligence tools. The Santa Monica-based startup continued operating under its own brand post-acquisition, integrating its parking services with INRIX's automotive clients including Audi, BMW, and Lexus. Terms weren't disclosed.
Which car brands integrated with ParkMe's technology?
ParkMe partnered with major automakers including Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Toyota. These integrations allowed drivers to access real-time parking data directly through vehicle navigation systems, showing availability, pricing, and enabling mobile payments at supported locations.
How extensive was ParkMe's parking database?
At acquisition, ParkMe's database covered 29 million parking spaces across 84,184 locations in 3,232 cities worldwide. This included street parking, garages, and lots in 64 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive parking datasets available to consumers and automakers.
What happened to ParkMe's founders after the acquisition?
Co-founders Sam Friedman and Alex Israel joined INRIX post-acquisition. Friedman continued developing parking solutions, while Israel later founded Metropolis Technologies, another parking tech company that acquired SP Plus in 2023 for $1.5 billion.
Can you still use the ParkMe app today?
While ParkMe continued operating post-acquisition, its current status is unclear as INRIX has integrated its technology. Alternatives include newer parking apps and services from companies like Metropolis, founded by ParkMe's co-founder. Check app stores for active availability.
Sources
- www.prnewswire.com — Acquisition details and post-deal operations
- www.reuters.com — Post-ParkMe ventures of co-founder Alex Israel
- techcrunch.com — Mobile app capabilities and expansion
- www.prnewswire.com — Enterprise partnerships and real-time data integration