Nearly two years after it was originally scheduled to open, an automated parking garage has begun trial runs at Bali Hai Pier, offering free parking while the operator works out the bugs.
Using a computerized-elevator system from by Simmatec Robotic of South Korea, the 738-million-baht garage offers 417 parking spaces on seven floors. Three hydraulic “Transo Devices” lift cars into and out of spaces. Each car must be shorter than 5.2 meters long, 1.9 meters tall and weigh no more than 2.3 tons. Vehicles also must measure no more than 13 cm. from ground to engine.
Pattaya’s new robotic parking garage offers 417 parking spaces on seven floors.
The garage actually was completed in 2013, but has stood vacant since due to Pattaya’s inability to find a private company to run it. Originally planned to open in July 2013, it is now set for official opening on April 1. Free parking is offered during testing before that date, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Once open, the car park will operate on the same hours, charging 30 baht an hour or 300 baht a day.
MP MEC Co. will operate the garage with 40 employees manning the 12 entrances and seven floors, including one below ground.
Thailand’s first robotic parking garage is ready to begin operation at Bali Hai Pier.
Pattaya’s city manager Wuttipol Charoenpol said the garage is convenient, safe, and eco-friendly. It utilizes space effectively and can support up to 417 cars for people traveling to Koh Larn. It also gives Pattaya a prominent image, he said.
