The ninth edition of the Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) is just around the corner, and we are excited to highlight insights from our Silver Sponsor, FERNRIDE, on the key automation trends and innovations that are shaping the future of container terminals.
As Europe’s leading event for container terminal operators, CTAC brings together more than 250 industry leaders each year for two days of invaluable discussion, innovation, and collaboration. Join us on 1–2 April 2025 at Las Arenas Balneario Resort in Valencia!
What key innovations or trends do you see shaping the future of container terminal automation?
The key trends shaping the future of container terminal automation are AI and machine learning, as well as data-driven process optimisation. The desired and expected benefits from these automation technologies are operational efficiency, cost reduction, and data-driven decision-making, as our Industry 2024 report on Automation and Digital Innovation reveals.
The development of these technologies will not only increase the productivity of the automation solutions but will also allow us to make better decisions based on predictive analytics. Moreover, automation contributes to safer working environments on the terminals.
READ: FERNRIDE completes evaluation of safety and security concept
How is your company contributing to the evolution of automation, equipment innovation, or operational optimisation in the industry?
FERNRIDE is at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of automation with our solution for automating horizontal container transportation in mixed-traffic terminals. We are driving the industrialisation of autonomous terminal tractors, ensuring large-scale deployment with minimal customer risk and faster time-to-market. Unlike prototype-driven approaches, we prioritise scalability by designing a fully industrialised solution from the start.
Industrialised autonomy is more than just a technological milestone and compliance with regulatory standards (Machinery Directive and CE compliance). It represents a systematic approach, covering hardware design, safety certification, supply chain reliability, and continuous software updates aimed at large-scale, long-term deployments. For terminal operators, that translates directly to lower downtimes, faster return on investment, and higher operational flexibility. With our solution being operations-ready, the commercialisation of autonomous terminal tractors is starting in 2025 and will gain even more traction in the upcoming years.
READ: FERNRIDE chooses QNX for safe autonomous terminal tractors
Why should industry professionals attend CTAC Europe 2025, and what insights can they expect to gain?
CTAC Europe 2025 provides a collaborative space for industry stakeholders to network and discover the latest advancements in technology and automation specifically designed for container terminals. The event highlights practical applications of automation solutions, facilitating the exchange of ideas and aiding participants in planning and implementing their automation projects.
Most importantly, CTAC Europe fosters a collaborative environment that encourages alliances among industry stakeholders, enabling participants to forge partnerships and gain a competitive edge by staying informed about the next wave of container terminal innovation.
FERNRIDE offers scalable automation solutions for yard trucking that increase productivity, promote sustainability, and improve worker safety. The company employs a human-assisted autonomy approach, which allows for remote takeovers of trucks when necessary. With over a decade of research and high-profile customers, including Volkswagen, HHLA, and DB Schenker, FERNRIDE uses cutting-edge technology to address major industry challenges.
