Automated parking systems first appeared in Europe as early as the 1900’s and in the North America in the 1920’s. The need for automated parking systems then is the same as it is now: maximize the value of available land by condensing parking.
Pigeon Hole Parking 1953 (courtesy of LAPL)
The 1950’s saw the peak of the industry in North America with a number of high profile systems built but demand for the systems fell off shortly after that time. Although demand in other parts of the world, notably Japan, Korea and parts of Europe, continued to increase for automated parking systems , there was no real interest in North America until the 21st century. Since the turn of the century there have been around 15 systems installed in North America and the rate of installation is increasing.
Installed Automated Parking Systems (North America)