A significant milestone for autonomous logistics in Europe
HHLA TK Estonia terminal, near Tallinn, has partnered with yard trucking automation company Fernride, to begin the operational transition to driverless operation of terminal tractors.
Together, the two companies aim to “set new standards for safety and efficiency in port logistics”.
The transition to driverless operations follows the successful certification of Fernride’s safety concept and system design by TÜV SÜD, as well as approval by the Estonian Transport Administration (ETA).
Fernride is the first company to receive TÜV SÜD certification for an autonomous terminal tractor in accordance with the EU Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC).
This certification confirms that Fernride’s autonomous vehicle platform – including the vehicle, sensors, computers, and software – meets EU standards for safety, cybersecurity, and system reliability.
It marks an important step toward CE compliance and industrial deployment across Europe.
Hendrik Kramer, CEO and co-founder of Fernride, says: “This is a defining moment not only for Fernride but for the entire autonomous logistics industry in Europe. From day one, we’ve made safety the foundation of everything we build.
“Meeting Europe’s most stringent regulatory standards took a remarkable effort, and I’m incredibly proud of our team’s dedication and precision throughout this journey.
“This certification proves that our technology meets the highest safety benchmarks, not just in theory, but in practice, and brings us one step closer to making autonomous logistics a commercial reality across the EU.”
Riia Sillave, CEO of HHLA TK Estonia, says: “Entering the phase of driverless terminal transport marks a good step on the path being the digital frontrunner and testfield – not just for our collaboration with Fernride, but for the future of terminal operations.
“As one of the first terminals to take this step, we are shaping the path toward a more intelligent logistics.
“We trust that innovation succeeds by including the know-how of our employees – our team’s engagement is the foundation for the integration of this technology into everyday operations.”
Benedikt Pulver, head of the machine safety department at TÜV SÜD, says: “Fernride is the first to receive TÜV SÜD certification for a specific port application involving autonomous trucks.
“This milestone could establish a new benchmark for safety and compliance in autonomous trucking for terminal applications.”
Fernride and HHLA have had an ongoing partnership since January 2023, working closely to ensure a seamless transition into live operations, executing productive moves on the terminal.
The strategy focuses on implementing a gradual approach to integrate Fernride-enabled autonomous terminal tractors at HHLA TK Estonia without safety drivers. Three Fernride tractors are currently in operation at the terminal.
Fernride has implemented structured roll-out scenarios and standard procedures to train on-site personnel through the transition to fully driverless operations.
