Automatic Parking
Automatic parking is a driver-assistance function that controls part or all of a parking maneuver into or out of a detected space. Depending on the system, it may steer only or also manage acceleration, braking, and direction changes.
What it does
Ultrasonic sensors, cameras, and sometimes radar measure nearby spaces and obstacles. After the driver selects a space and starts the maneuver, the vehicle follows a calculated path. The driver may need to hold a control, shift gears, or supervise continuously, and the exact division of responsibility differs.
Curbs, low or thin objects, unusual spaces, poor markings, moving road users, dirt, weather, and sensor blind zones can cause missed obstacles or an aborted maneuver. Automatic parking is not evidence of high-level driving automation. The driver must check the surroundings and stop the vehicle when the path is unsafe.
For parking modes, sensors, and driver responsibilities, see Automatic Parking Systems.