The move follows the certification of FERNRIDE's safety concept and system design by TÜV SÜD, as well as approval by the Estonian Transport Administration.
FERNRIDE is the first to receive TÜV SÜD certification for an autonomous terminal tractor under 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, cyber security, and system reliability. It marks an important step toward CE compliance and industrial deployment across Europe," the company underscored in a press release.
Its CEO and Co-founder, Hendrik Kramer, added, "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, also commented, "Entering the phase of driverless terminal transport marks a good step on the path being the digital front-runner and test field - 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."
FERNRIDE and HHLA have been working together since January 2023 on implementing a gradual approach to integrate FERNRIDE-enabled autonomous terminal tractors at HHLA TK Estonia in the Port of Tallinn's Muuga Harbour without safety drivers.
Photo: FERNRIDE