NEC Launches Pilot for AI-Driven Unmanned Parking Facilities

Tokyo, Japan — NEC Corporation announced on March 21, 2025, the launch of a pilot program aimed at implementing unmanned operations for mechanical parking facilities using AI technology. The initiative seeks to reduce operators’ workload while enhancing safety and convenience for users, addressing labor shortages affecting the parking service industry.

Mechanical parking facilities, commonly found in office buildings, hotels, and commercial complexes, require operators to assist customers with parking, playing a crucial role in ensuring safe operations. However, recent trends, including declining birth rates and an aging population, have led to labor shortages. This has resulted in shortened operating hours or even the closure of parking services during low-demand nighttime hours, highlighting the urgent need to improve operators’ working conditions to enhance recruitment and retention rates.

In response to these industry challenges, NEC aims to revamp parking management through innovative unmanned solutions developed with advanced AI technology. The two-month pilot program launched in a mechanical parking facility located within a Tokyo office building will utilize AI-enhanced cameras to confirm passenger drop-offs during vehicle entry and detect unauthorized intrusion into the facility during both entry and exit.

The pilot will evaluate technical aspects such as the detection accuracy of individuals obscured by items like luggage or umbrellas, as well as how to manage overlapping individuals. Business considerations will also play a critical role, examining the optimal number of camera installations and their placement within facilities.

In conjunction with the pilot, NEC is developing new user interface devices that will enable users to intuitively operate parking facilities. By integrating these technologies, NEC aims to establish a model for unmanned mechanical parking facilities, contributing to increased operational value and societal implementation.

Looking ahead, NEC plans to accelerate digital transformation (DX) in parking services, aspiring to connect parking lots with office buildings, hotels, commercial facilities, and residential complexes. The goal is to create a seamless entry and exit experience for customers without the need for passwords or card keys, ultimately enhancing convenience and safety for shopping and access.

For inquiries regarding this project, please contact NEC’s Industry Infrastructure Division at iid-pr@dpf.jp.nec.com.