Science & Technology
Škoda and Parkopedia enhance valued in-car payment service
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- Helpful live notifications on Škoda infotainment systems inform drivers when in-car parking and fuelling payment functionality is available at a location
- New in-car payments service is available launching with fuel-powered Škoda models produced from Q2 2024 across Europe plus the Škoda Enyaq and the upcoming all-electric Škoda Elroq with further EVs to follow1
- Parkopedia provides parking data and in-car payment platform functionality for Škoda drivers
5 December 2024 – London, UK / Mlada Boleslav, Czech Republic
Parkopedia and Škoda have updated notifications on their in-car payment service to now include helpful prompts to inform drivers when they are approaching locations that support in-car payment transactions, building upon the existing collaboration that currently provides convenient in-car payments for parking and fuelling.
This ‘nudging’ functionality enables drivers to easily locate parking and fuelling sites, with useful notifications now appearing on their vehicles’ infotainment screens to inform them of locations where they can complete transactions, as part of an enhanced connected driver experience. The functionality is made possible thanks to Parkopedia’s extensive and granular parking data with the quality and accuracy of location data being a fundamental part of enabling successful in-car transactions. This new functionality is launched with fuel-powered Škoda models, produced from Q2 2024 including the Fabia, Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Octavia, Scala and Superb, with notifications for parking locations being added to the the upcoming all-electric Škoda Elroq at launch, with the Enyaq and additional EV models gaining this functionality in 2025.
The service takes the stress out of finding parking machines, minimises driver distractions with subtle prompts and bypasses additional issues such as out-of-order machines, not having the correct change, card payment issues and more. In-car payments are a growing priority for drivers worldwide, with 59% of European drivers wanting the option to pay for parking through their in-car media system, according to the latest Parkopedia Global Driver Survey figures. This survey also highlighted that parking is the most requested in-car payment service for drivers, reflecting that paying for services with outdated methods can be an unnecessarily stressful and time-consuming process that detracts from the driving experience.
Highlighting the value of this new functionality, Markus Dohl, VP of Sales & Business Development Europe at Parkopedia, said: “New cars are now packed with a host of useful features, so it can be difficult for drivers to find the connected services they want while focusing on driving. Our new feature developed with Škoda, simplifies the payment process, intelligently informing drivers when convenient in-car payment services are available in their surrounding area or at their destination with onscreen notifications and prompts. This ensures that drivers can easily access Škoda’s valued connected services, bolstering its strong brand satisfaction and customer loyalty.”
Referring to the partnership, Škoda Technical Project Lead & Product Manager, Martin Handl, added: “Škoda is proud to offer a range of user-friendly features that take the stress out of drivers’ everyday lives and our latest feature with Parkopedia offers the same value, enabling drivers to get the most from their Škoda whenever they need to make vehicle-based purchases behind the wheel. From our driver feedback, we know that paying for parking and fuel can be a tedious and stressful task for our drivers, which is why we’ve worked with Parkopedia to streamline this process for our drivers with this innovative and valuable solution.”
ENDS
1 Škoda Pay to Park and Pay to Fuel are available in the following European countries. Pay to Park: Czechia, Germany, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy and Portugal.
Pay to Fuel: Czechia, Germany, Denmark, Luxembourg, Belgium, Switzerland, Spain and Portugal. Pay to Park has been live since Q3/2022, with Pay to Fuel going live in Q4/2023 with coverage being continuously increased.
About Parkopedia
Parkopedia is the leading connected car services provider used by automakers, organisations and millions of drivers around the world. Parkopedia helps drivers find and pay for parking, EV charging, fuel and tolls across 90 countries. Parkopedia is also developing highly detailed indoor maps and corresponding algorithms to help drivers and self-driving vehicles navigate to available parking spaces and EV chargers. Visit business.parkopedia.com for more information.
About Škoda
With 120 years of history, Škoda is one of the oldest automotive manufacturers in the world and is now part of the Volkswagen Group. From modest beginnings, the brand has produced a vast range of products over the last 12 decades, from bicycles to racing cars, with the original factory in Mladá Boleslav, Czech Republic always at the heart of operations.
Parkopedia Global Media Contact
Adam Calland
Marketing Director
T: +44(0)7838219129
Škoda Media Contact
Martin Ježek
Spokesperson for Digital Topics
T: +420 730 865 258
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Science & Technology
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A roundup of the latest scientific advancements, exploring breakthroughs and the challenges that lie ahead.
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In the realm of renewable energy, SolarTech Innovations reported a breakthrough in solar panel efficiency on September 12, 2026. Their new technology purportedly increases the energy conversion rate by 25%, potentially transforming the solar energy industry. This advancement could accelerate the shift towards sustainable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, questions remain about the scalability of this technology and its economic viability for widespread adoption.
Meanwhile, the agricultural sector witnessed a milestone with AgriBio’s development of drought-resistant crops. Announced on September 7, 2026, these genetically engineered plants could enhance food security in regions prone to extreme weather conditions. The company states that these crops can withstand prolonged periods without water, ensuring stable yields. Critics, however, caution about the ecological implications and the potential for unintended consequences on biodiversity.
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These scientific advancements highlight the dynamic nature of innovation and the diverse challenges accompanying progress. Each breakthrough presents a spectrum of opportunities and ethical dilemmas that require careful consideration. As these developments unfold, stakeholders from various sectors must engage in dialogue to navigate the complexities they entail.
Looking forward, the scientific community faces the task of addressing the practical and ethical questions these innovations raise. Continued research, open discourse, and policy-making will be crucial in harnessing the benefits of these advancements while mitigating their risks. The next few months will likely see increased scrutiny and discussion as these technologies move from the laboratory to real-world applications.
Science & Technology
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Tech leaders advocate for slowing AI progress to mitigate risks and ensure safety.
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This movement to slow AI development is gaining traction within the tech community. It reflects a deeper understanding of the potential risks and ethical considerations that come with advanced AI systems. Industry leaders are increasingly aware of their responsibility to mitigate these risks. There is a growing consensus that more comprehensive safety measures and regulatory oversight are necessary. The call for a slowdown is not a demand to halt innovation. Rather, it is a plea for a more deliberate approach to AI development. The goal is to establish a regulatory framework that prioritizes safety, ethical considerations, and long-term societal impact. This approach seeks to ensure that AI technologies are developed responsibly and with foresight. The motivation behind this push is multifaceted. At its core is the desire to prevent unintended consequences that could arise from unchecked AI advancement. These include potential job displacement, privacy concerns, and the risk of AI systems being used for malicious purposes. The tech industry is increasingly aware that the societal implications of AI are vast and complex. There is a recognition that addressing these challenges requires collaboration across sectors and disciplines.
The momentum to slow AI development also reflects a shift in how technology leaders view their role in society. There is a growing acknowledgment that technological innovation must be balanced with ethical responsibility. This recognition is driving the call for more stringent safety protocols and regulatory oversight. As the debate around AI continues, the voices advocating for caution are becoming more prominent. The movement is gaining momentum, supported by influential figures and organizations committed to ensuring that AI development proceeds safely and responsibly. The challenge now is translating this momentum into actionable policies and frameworks. Governments and regulatory bodies must work closely with industry leaders to develop comprehensive guidelines that address the unique challenges posed by AI. This collaboration is essential to fostering innovation while safeguarding societal interests. The path forward requires a collective effort to balance progress with prudence. As AI continues to evolve, the need for thoughtful and responsible development becomes increasingly critical. The calls to slow down AI development are a testament to the industry’s commitment to navigating this complex terrain with care.
The journey ahead is not without challenges. Implementing effective regulatory measures will require cooperation and consensus among diverse stakeholders. However, the growing momentum to address AI safety concerns offers hope for a future where technological advancement is aligned with societal well-being. As industry leaders and policymakers work together, there is potential to shape a future where AI technologies enhance, rather than disrupt, the fabric of society. The commitment to responsible AI development is key to ensuring that AI technologies are harnessed for the greater good. This forward-thinking approach will be crucial in defining the next chapter of AI innovation. The momentum to slow down AI development is more than a precautionary measure. It is a strategic decision to prioritize safety, ethics, and long-term impact. As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, the focus on responsible development will remain at the forefront. The future of AI depends on the choices made today. By embracing a more measured approach, the tech community can pave the way for a future where AI serves humanity’s best interests.
Science & Technology
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The recent breakthrough in quantum computing by researchers at MIT marks a pivotal moment in the field of data security. On August 19, 2026, Nature published the details of a new quantum algorithm capable of processing data at speeds previously unimaginable. While this innovation holds enormous potential for advancing machine learning and other computational fields, it simultaneously presents a formidable challenge to the current cryptographic systems relied upon to safeguard sensitive information.
At the core of contemporary data security is the reliance on encryption techniques that depend on the complexity of certain mathematical problems, such as the factoring of large numbers, which are currently infeasible for classical computers to solve within a practical timeframe. However, quantum computers, with their ability to perform calculations exponentially faster than traditional machines, threaten to render these encryption methods obsolete. This development could have profound implications for sectors that prioritize data security, including finance, healthcare, and government, where sensitive data is at risk of exposure.
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In response to this looming threat, researchers and industry experts are actively exploring the development of quantum-resistant algorithms. These algorithms are designed to withstand the capabilities of quantum computing, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data even in a post-quantum world. Efforts in this direction include the study of lattice-based cryptography, hash-based signatures, and multivariate polynomial equations as potential foundations for secure encryption systems.
The urgency to develop and implement quantum-resistant cryptography is underscored by the rapid pace of advancements in quantum technology. Tech companies, governments, and academic institutions are investing heavily in research to safeguard their data infrastructures against quantum threats. The transition to quantum-resistant systems, however, is not without its challenges. It requires a comprehensive overhaul of existing cryptographic frameworks and widespread adoption across industries, a process that demands both time and resources.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of quantum computing in fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, and materials science cannot be overlooked. The same capabilities that pose a threat to data security also offer the promise of unprecedented advancements in computational power, enabling breakthroughs that were previously beyond reach.
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