All-Round Package For Cyclists: Parking With RFID

As soon as the sun comes out, many get back on their bikes. And even if it is an extremely space-saving means of transport - a car parking space offers space for up to eight bicycles - cyclists in many cities often struggle with finding a parking space. A look at Zurich shows how it can work. There, an onMetal RFID label from Schreiner PrinTrust contributes to an innovative park project.

Glass doors, light colors, 1,600 parking spaces with direct access to the platforms of Zurich main station - this is how the "Velostation Europaplatz" presents itself.
And it's not only in demand because of the location: "Our customers appreciate the comfort that we offer them," says Michael Leisner, member of the board of directors of the system manufacturer abaleo AG. The RFID label, which was created in cooperation with the experts from Schreiner PrinTrust, also contributes to this. The special feature: The RFID label also works perfectly on the metal frames of the bikes. It enables clear identification not only for access control, but also for electronic billing - reliably and without contact.

A parking space – but safe!
Michael Leisner can quickly explain why people pay money to park their bikes, even though there are also free public parking spaces:
“E-bikes have not only gained in importance in Germany, but also in Switzerland. And don't just park a valuable bike on the next street corner! Customers not only value the fact that the bike can be parked conveniently, but above all that it is safely parked and guarded.” Charging options in the bike station ensure additional attractiveness.

Space savers with potential
There is general agreement across the country that the bicycle is a key element on the way to a turnaround in transport. Especially as a means of transport for commuters on the way to the train station, the bike can relieve the burden on the streets. But the reality often looks a little different: in addition to the scramble on the traffic routes, parking is a main concern for all sides. The results of the current cycle climate test by the ADFC (Allgemeinen Deutscher Fahrrad-Club) also match this: The large cities with more than 500,000 inhabitants were able to improve slightly compared to the last survey. Why? An improved range of rental bikes - and additional bike parking spaces.

It is a topic that offers potential and examples such as the Zurich Velostation show how cities can also contribute to future mobility through innovative parking options and ensure harmonious coexistence between drivers and cyclists.