After acquiring SpotHero, Uber (UBER.US) makes its debut in the parking sector with a parking space reservation feature, initially available in 15 U.S. cities

According to JinTong Finance APP, Uber (UBER.US) has launched a brand-new parking space reservation feature, marking its first step in the parking sector following its acquisition of the parking app SpotHero earlier this year.

Uber announced on Monday that users of the Uber App can access this new service—marked by the "P" icon on the homepage—to search for parking garages, lots, and valet services by specifying the date and time. This function is initially being rolled out in 15 U.S. cities, including Chicago, San Francisco, Austin, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., with plans to expand to more locations in the future.

An Uber spokesperson stated that through the SpotHero acquisition, Uber has integrated resources for over 13,000 parking locations across North America. The company plans to retain the independent SpotHero app while also integrating parking capabilities into the main Uber platform.

This is Uber’s latest move in launching new products and attracting users beyond its flagship ride-hailing business. Last week, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi told analysts on an earnings call that the parking feature will enhance Uber’s appeal to commuters, a core user group for the company. Since 2025, Uber has introduced a range of products for this segment, including more cost-effective carpooling options and monthly passes that lock in fares for regular routes, helping users avoid surge pricing during peak times.

Uber One paid members who complete eligible parking reservations can also receive a 10% points rebate, which can be used for future rides or food delivery orders.

Uber mentioned in the announcement that acquiring SpotHero will also support its autonomous driving business deployment. The company is currently partnering with more than a dozen self-driving taxi and delivery robot companies to assist in managing fleet dispatching, charging, and maintenance schedules, thereby increasing vehicle uptime.

Uber Advanced Technologies Group Senior Director Samas Kaijiriwal stated: “The core goal of developing the parking business is to lower the cost per mile for users.” He explained that allowing autonomous taxis to park closer to user demand, rather than returning to dedicated maintenance and charging depots, can maximize operational efficiency.

Kaijiriwal added that although Uber had previously made parking arrangements with some autonomous vehicle partners, now, by gaining access to SpotHero’s commercial contracts with U.S. parking providers, Uber expects to secure better parking rates ahead of rolling out autonomous taxi services in more cities.

He said: “Ultimately, what passengers care about most are pricing and service reliability.”