What is a Double Parker?
A double parker is a car parking system designed for double parking, where vehicles are stacked vertically using movable platforms. This form of parking technology maximizes available space in very tight urban areas and is increasingly relevant for urban mobility concepts. Depending on the manufacturer and model, this technology is also known as duplex parkers, lift parkers, multiparkers or duplex garages.
These car park solutions are usually installed underground and are a popular choice for large residential developments or office buildings. In many cases, existing garages can be retrofitted with these parking systems. Duplex garages are also well suited for private users who need efficient parking solutions for multiple vehicles in a single location.
Types of Duplex Parkers
Duplex parkers are available in many configurations depending on size, design, and parking technology. There are systems with or without pits, models with two or three levels, and designs with either single or double platforms. These double parking systems rely on high-quality industrial components to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Some platforms move vertically, while others tilt, allowing particularly space-saving parking solutions. Underfloor systems can be completely lowered into the ground. Modern duplex parkers can also be equipped with electric vehicle charging points, further supporting sustainable urban mobility.
How a Duplex Parker Works
The operating principle of duplex garages is similar across most parking systems. Drivers enter the garage and either drive directly onto a platform or use the control system to access a free space. This process is managed by advanced parking management controls and can often be operated from inside the vehicle.
The lifting platforms are typically controlled using a dead-man’s switch and a key. The lift mechanism, powered by hydraulic drives and other industrial components, raises or lowers the platforms until the desired parking level is reached. A pit is required for lower platforms to descend fully. If the controls are released, the system stops immediately.
In stack parkers, no pit is present. With this form of double parking, the lower space must remain empty before the platform can be lowered.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Duplex Parkers
The primary advantage of duplex parkers is their efficient use of space. Vehicles can be parked both side by side and vertically, significantly increasing parking capacity. These parking solutions are especially valuable in dense urban areas and for developers focused on urban mobility optimization. Additionally, vehicles stored on raised or lowered platforms benefit from increased security.
However, there are also drawbacks. Parking spaces are often smaller than in conventional garages. Large vehicles such as SUVs may exceed height, width, length, or weight limits. Even when dimensions are within limits, manoeuvring can be challenging, and access may be less comfortable.
Operating time is another factor, as it can take several minutes before a vehicle is accessible. The use of complex parking technology also increases the risk of operating errors if vehicles are not secured correctly. As a result, professional parking management is essential, particularly in larger facilities.
Costs of Duplex Parkers
The cost of duplex parkers varies depending on size, capacity, and technical features. For a private duplex garage accommodating two vehicles, prices typically range from 5,000 to 20,000 euros. Larger car park solutions for residential or commercial projects are significantly more expensive.
New installations with retractable platforms require extensive excavation work. Ongoing costs include electricity consumption, maintenance, and replacement of industrial components. Companies such as UK Parking Limited specialize in supplying and maintaining these advanced parking systems.
Despite the higher investment, duplex garages are often economically viable. For developers, the ability to increase parking capacity without expanding the building footprint makes these parking solutions a strategic asset in modern construction and urban mobility planning.
For more ideas around purchasing and sourcing parking systems and urban mobility solutions, europages Inside Business offers helpful tools and inspiration.
Autonomous driving: revolutionary transport? | Europages