The Future of Urban Mobility: How Innovative Startups Are Reshaping Infrastructure
March 8, 2025, 3:44 pm
In the bustling world of urban development, two companies are emerging as beacons of innovation. Preferred Networks from Japan and Parkwise from the Philippines are tackling real-world problems with cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions. Their stories are not just about business; they are about reshaping the future of urban mobility.
Preferred Networks is a Japanese unicorn that has captured the attention of major players like Toyota. With a focus on deep learning, this company aims to solve complex issues in various sectors, including trucking, healthcare, and robotics. The CEO, Toru Nishikawa, emphasizes the need for a different approach when dealing with real-world challenges. Unlike traditional AI solutions that thrive in digital spaces, Preferred Networks is venturing into the tangible world, where results take time and patience.
The company’s collaboration with Toyota is a testament to its potential. Toyota’s investment of over $95 million signals confidence in Preferred Networks’ vision. The partnership aims to address pressing issues in the trucking industry, such as driver shortages and long working hours. By developing autonomous driving technologies, Preferred Networks is not just keeping pace with competitors; it is setting the stage for a revolution in transportation.
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The automotive industry is a battleground, with numerous players vying for dominance in autonomous driving. Okanohara, the chief executive researcher, acknowledges the competitive landscape. Yet, Preferred Networks is not deterred. The company is committed to a long-term vision, understanding that real-world applications of AI require time to mature. It may take up to five years before their technologies start generating revenue, but the potential rewards are immense.
Meanwhile, in the Philippines, Parkwise is carving its niche in the parking industry. Backed by a $250 million investment from PATRIZIA and Mitsui, Parkwise is set to revolutionize urban parking solutions. The startup aims to build modern parking structures in key urban areas, addressing the growing demand for parking spaces as vehicle ownership rises. With Manila being one of the most congested cities globally, the need for effective parking solutions is urgent.
Parkwise’s approach is innovative. The company plans to integrate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and rooftop solar panels into its facilities. This not only meets the current demands of urban mobility but also aligns with global sustainability goals. By co-locating parking facilities with social infrastructure like hospitals and universities, Parkwise is creating a network that enhances urban living.
The vision of Parkwise extends beyond mere parking. It aims to contribute to the Philippines’ sustainable development goals, promoting inclusive economic growth and industrialization. The emphasis on customer experience and innovation sets Parkwise apart in a crowded market. As urban populations swell, the demand for efficient and sustainable mobility solutions will only increase.
Both Preferred Networks and Parkwise are examples of how startups can address pressing urban challenges. They are not just companies; they are catalysts for change. Preferred Networks is pushing the boundaries of AI to create smarter transportation systems, while Parkwise is reimagining urban infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population.
The intersection of technology and urban planning is where the future lies. As cities expand and evolve, the need for innovative solutions becomes paramount. Preferred Networks and Parkwise are leading the charge, demonstrating that with the right vision and investment, it is possible to create a more sustainable and efficient urban environment.
The global market is vast, and both companies recognize the importance of scaling their operations. Preferred Networks is eyeing foreign investors to expand its reach beyond Japan. The CEO understands that the potential for growth is limited within the confines of the Japanese market. By looking outward, Preferred Networks aims to tap into the larger global landscape.
Similarly, Parkwise is strategically positioning itself to meet the demands of urban mobility in the Philippines. The partnership with PATRIZIA and Mitsui is a significant step toward achieving its ambitious goals. By leveraging expertise and resources, Parkwise is poised to make a lasting impact on the urban landscape.
In conclusion, the stories of Preferred Networks and Parkwise are not just about business success; they are about envisioning a better future. As urban centers grapple with congestion and inefficiency, these companies are stepping up to provide solutions. They are redefining what it means to be a startup in the 21st century—innovative, sustainable, and forward-thinking. The future of urban mobility is bright, and it is being shaped by the bold ideas of these trailblazers.
Preferred Networks is a Japanese unicorn that has captured the attention of major players like Toyota. With a focus on deep learning, this company aims to solve complex issues in various sectors, including trucking, healthcare, and robotics. The CEO, Toru Nishikawa, emphasizes the need for a different approach when dealing with real-world challenges. Unlike traditional AI solutions that thrive in digital spaces, Preferred Networks is venturing into the tangible world, where results take time and patience.
The company’s collaboration with Toyota is a testament to its potential. Toyota’s investment of over $95 million signals confidence in Preferred Networks’ vision. The partnership aims to address pressing issues in the trucking industry, such as driver shortages and long working hours. By developing autonomous driving technologies, Preferred Networks is not just keeping pace with competitors; it is setting the stage for a revolution in transportation.
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The automotive industry is a battleground, with numerous players vying for dominance in autonomous driving. Okanohara, the chief executive researcher, acknowledges the competitive landscape. Yet, Preferred Networks is not deterred. The company is committed to a long-term vision, understanding that real-world applications of AI require time to mature. It may take up to five years before their technologies start generating revenue, but the potential rewards are immense.
Meanwhile, in the Philippines, Parkwise is carving its niche in the parking industry. Backed by a $250 million investment from PATRIZIA and Mitsui, Parkwise is set to revolutionize urban parking solutions. The startup aims to build modern parking structures in key urban areas, addressing the growing demand for parking spaces as vehicle ownership rises. With Manila being one of the most congested cities globally, the need for effective parking solutions is urgent.
Parkwise’s approach is innovative. The company plans to integrate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and rooftop solar panels into its facilities. This not only meets the current demands of urban mobility but also aligns with global sustainability goals. By co-locating parking facilities with social infrastructure like hospitals and universities, Parkwise is creating a network that enhances urban living.
The vision of Parkwise extends beyond mere parking. It aims to contribute to the Philippines’ sustainable development goals, promoting inclusive economic growth and industrialization. The emphasis on customer experience and innovation sets Parkwise apart in a crowded market. As urban populations swell, the demand for efficient and sustainable mobility solutions will only increase.
Both Preferred Networks and Parkwise are examples of how startups can address pressing urban challenges. They are not just companies; they are catalysts for change. Preferred Networks is pushing the boundaries of AI to create smarter transportation systems, while Parkwise is reimagining urban infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population.
The intersection of technology and urban planning is where the future lies. As cities expand and evolve, the need for innovative solutions becomes paramount. Preferred Networks and Parkwise are leading the charge, demonstrating that with the right vision and investment, it is possible to create a more sustainable and efficient urban environment.
The global market is vast, and both companies recognize the importance of scaling their operations. Preferred Networks is eyeing foreign investors to expand its reach beyond Japan. The CEO understands that the potential for growth is limited within the confines of the Japanese market. By looking outward, Preferred Networks aims to tap into the larger global landscape.
Similarly, Parkwise is strategically positioning itself to meet the demands of urban mobility in the Philippines. The partnership with PATRIZIA and Mitsui is a significant step toward achieving its ambitious goals. By leveraging expertise and resources, Parkwise is poised to make a lasting impact on the urban landscape.
In conclusion, the stories of Preferred Networks and Parkwise are not just about business success; they are about envisioning a better future. As urban centers grapple with congestion and inefficiency, these companies are stepping up to provide solutions. They are redefining what it means to be a startup in the 21st century—innovative, sustainable, and forward-thinking. The future of urban mobility is bright, and it is being shaped by the bold ideas of these trailblazers.