Why Car Park Machines Are Still Relevant in the Age of Apps

Autocar’s recent research reveals that a majority of motorists, 83% to be exact, still prefer using cash or contactless payment machines in car parks over smartphone apps. The feedback gathered highlighted concerns about the hassle of downloading multiple apps, fears of online fraud, and the perceived complexity of using parking apps.

Dennis Reed, director of campaign group Silver Voices, criticized the move towards abandoning pay-and-display machines as “blatant ageism,” a sentiment echoed by many. It seems that there is a general dissatisfaction with online payment methods beyond just complexity and fraud. People are growing wary of surveillance, data collection, and potential poor tactics from parking providers.

In a personal anecdote, Matt Prior shared two instances where family members faced fines due to issues with online payments in car parks. Both situations could have been avoided if there were traditional payment machines available. The convenience and simplicity of using cash or card at a machine seem to outweigh the perceived benefits of digital payment methods.

Looking ahead, there is a call for government intervention to ensure that every car park is equipped with a payment machine alongside digital options. The focus should be on providing choice and convenience for all motorists, regardless of their preferred payment method.

Exciting Opportunities Await: Become a Hovercraft Pilot

In other news, Autocar’s 2022 Christmas road test featured the Isle of Wight hovercraft, which is now seeking a new pilot to join its team. Hovertravel operates cutting-edge hovercraft vessels that cross the Solent daily, offering a unique and thrilling job opportunity for aspiring pilots.

The job requirements may seem daunting to some, with specific certifications needed to qualify for the role. However, for those with the right qualifications and a passion for seafaring adventures, this could be the dream job they’ve been waiting for.

Expanding Autocar’s Archive: A Labor of Love

On a different note, Autocar’s archive continues to grow thanks to the dedication of sub-editor Kris Culmer and contributions from readers like John. The digital archive now boasts 6210 issues spanning from the 1950s to the 2000s, with more additions planned to complete the collection.

The meticulous work of archiving past issues is a labor of love for many at Autocar, and the team is grateful for the ongoing support and enthusiasm from readers. The goal is to preserve automotive history and provide a valuable resource for enthusiasts and researchers alike.