HHLA Next, the innovation unit of the German port operator Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), is investing in the Munich-based start-up FERNRIDE and the two companies will jointly run a pilot project for highly automated and electric container logistics at the Port of Muuga’s HHLA TK Estonia Terminal in Tallinn.
HHLA Next is investing in FERNRIDE’s solution to further advance automation and sustainability in logistics and counteract the shortage of truck drivers. Thus, the added value of FERNRIDE lies in the gradually increasing autonomy of trucks and tractors.
FERNRIDE relies on a combination of already available autonomous technology of the vehicles and human expertise in remote operation, which can be used directly in regular operation.
Simone Lode, managing director of HHLA Next, commented, “We see great potential in solutions for autonomous driving, also due to the existing shortage of truck drivers. With FERNRIDE, we are investing in a company that has already implemented an operational solution with a partner network with reputable companies from industry & logistics with very good results. The project also underlines our focus on sustainable logistics.”
At the beginning of 2023, a pilot project will start at HHLA TK Estonia Terminal in Tallinn, which will be FERNRIDE’s first project at a container terminal.
HHLA and FERNRIDES aim to assess the operational reliability of the technology in the field of automated container handling and to validate the technology for future business opportunities.
Philip Sweens, managing director of HHLA International, stated, “The partnership with FERNRIDE as part of the pilot project in Tallinn will help us to test new possibilities together and to make the work processes at our international terminals future-oriented and sustainable.”
