Autonomous logistics are evolving rapidly in Europe right now. Just in July 2025, FERNRIDE started the operational transition to driverless operations at a container terminal in Tallinn. A milestone in applying Germany’s regulatory framework for autonomous driving within closed logistics environments – which we’re proud to have helped facilitate with Motius’ interdisciplinary tech experts!
In this rapidly evolving landscape of autonomous logistics, ensuring safety and compliance are non-negotiable requirements, especially when deploying solutions within critical infrastructure. FERNRIDE the European leader in automation solutions for yard and port logistics, has partnered with us to navigate the complex terrain of rapid software development and safety standards and certification. So how do you tackle such a critical task? Let us walk you through the technological milestones in this article.
“From the beginning, Motius has been proactively anticipating challenges before they arise. Their structured yet agile approach helped us push forward toward TÜV readiness with clarity and confidence.” Tilmann Ochs, Director of Systems, Safety and Cybersecurity @FERNRIDE
Engineering For Safety And Certification
Our collaboration with FERNRIDE focuses on several key areas to bolster the safety and certifiability of their autonomous systems. Here is an overview of our joint achievements during the certification process so far:
Creating A Plan Of Action: Joint Safety Software Gap Analysis
To tackle the complex task of safety and certification, FERNRIDE complemented their deep knowledge in designing an efficient and modern software development environment with our expertise in interpreting the required safety standards. Our interdisciplinary engineering team conducted an internal audit of FERNRIDE’s safety software documentation, resulting in a comprehensive gap analysis between their existing development processes and the requirements outlined in IEC 61508. This involved:
- Evaluating Functional Safety Management (FSM) compliance.
- Identifying discrepancies in functional safety adherence.
- Proposing actionable solutions and corrective measures.
- Implementing an agile approach to monitor and address identified gaps effectively.
Based on this gap analysis, we then augmented the existing, highly automated development process towards conformity. In direct collaboration with their developers, we redefined the Safety Software Development Lifecycle to ensure alignment with IEC 61508 to ensure functional safety compliance. During joint sessions with FERNRIDE’s developers, we fine-tuned FERNRIDE’s integrated safety planning at every development stage, fostering a culture of safety from inception to deployment.
What Can Go Wrong? System Safety Analysis & Cybersecurity Assessment
Understanding potential failure modes is crucial in autonomous operations. Hence, we evaluated single fault scenarios within system elements and software designs to ensure the integrity of safety functions. This proactive assessment aimed to mitigate risks that could compromise critical safety functions in autonomous truck operations.
Recognizing the intertwined nature of safety and security, we supported FERNRIDE in conducting cybersecurity assessments in line with IEC 62443 standards. This included performing Function Security Risk Assessments to identify and mitigate potential cybersecurity threats, ensuring a holistic approach to system integrity.
Collaborative Autonomy Software Development
Additionally, our software team works closely with FERNRIDE's developers, providing hands-on support for both autonomy software and safety-critical components. This collaboration ensures that safety considerations are deeply embedded within the software architecture, enhancing the overall reliability of the autonomous systems.
Working with FERNRIDE is a true partnership at eye level, which is built on trust, shared goals, and complementary expertise. It’s a great example of how deep tech and structured engineering can turn complex challenges into real innovation. Together, we’re ensuring the safety of autonomous systems by making autonomous logistics ready for critical infrastructure applications. Florian Diepenbruck, Business Unit Head Industrial Automation @Motius
Paving The Way For Safe Autonomous Logistics
Through this partnership, FERNRIDE has made significant strides in pioneering safety standards for autonomous trucking in Europe , positioning itself for successful TÜV SÜD certification. FERNRIDE has become the first company to earn TÜV SÜD certification for an autonomous terminal tractor under the European Union’s Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC). This impressive milestone demonstrates that their autonomous vehicle platform adheres to the EU’s high standards for safety, cybersecurity, and system dependability. Our proactive approach and deep technical expertise have been instrumental in accelerating their journey towards deploying autonomous transport solutions within critical infrastructure.
Advancing Towards Market Readiness
What makes this project particularly exciting is the fruitful synergy between innovative engineering and strategic foresight. By prioritizing safety and compliance, they are not only advancing autonomous technology but also setting a benchmark for deploying such solutions in critical environments. The TÜV SÜD certification, issued by a globally recognized testing and certification authority, represents a breakthrough moment for industrial autonomy in Europe. As a trusted technology partner, we played a key role in achieving this milestone that paves the way to CE conformity and, essentially, for FERNRIDE to begin commercial deployments across the continent. In a quickly evolving logistics industry, partnerships like this are pivotal in shaping a safer, more efficient future.
