German autonomous logistics startup Fernride has launched driverless operations at the HHLA TK Estonia terminal near Tallinn following the receipt of EU certification from TÜV SÜD for its autonomous terminal tractor system, the company said in a statement.
Fernride’s certification marks the first approval of its kind under the EU Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC), validating the safety, cybersecurity, and reliability of its autonomous vehicle platform, which includes the vehicle itself, sensors, computing systems, and software. Backed by DB Schenker and HHLA, the Munich-based firm is now aiming to scale its electric truck automation solutions across European yard and port logistics markets.
The company has been working in partnership with port operator HHLA since early 2023, preparing for driverless deployment at HHLA TK Estonia. Three electric terminal tractors are currently operating at the site, with Fernride using structured rollout scenarios and staff training to facilitate the transition to full automation.
While Fernride is responsible for the autonomous hardware and control systems, the base terminal tractor units are produced by Dutch manufacturer Terberg. The companies have worked together since 2021 and began series production of the first 100 Fernride-equipped vehicles this year.
Fernride’s approach blends automated driving with teleoperation, enabling remote human assistance via mobile networks as a transitional step toward full autonomy. The technology is the result of over a decade of research at the Technical University of Munich and is designed to improve safety and efficiency in controlled logistics environments.
Founded in 2019, Fernride raised $50 million in a 2023 Series A funding round to expand its technology and operations. Its investors include DB Schenker, HHLA Next, and Krone. According to the company, total venture capital raised now exceeds $60 million.
