Germany Extends Nationwide Trial of Electronic Co-Drivers for Abnormal Transports Until 2027

30-Second Takeaway

Germany has extended its nationwide trial of electronic co-drivers for abnormal transports until June 2027 after delays in introducing uniform federal regulations. The pilot scheme, launched in summer 2024, has been deemed successful and will continue under identical state decrees while national and European harmonisation efforts progress. Industry bodies see the move as a critical step toward safer, more efficient heavy transport operations.

Digitalisation of Abnormal Transport Operations

Across Europe, abnormal load and heavy transport operators continue to face operational inefficiencies driven by fragmented regulations and paper-based permit systems. These legacy processes often require vehicles to carry extensive physical documentation, increasing the risk of errors, delays and safety incidents.

Digital solutions such as electronic co-driver systems are increasingly viewed as a way to improve compliance, route adherence and driver support, particularly for cross-border and multi-state movements. Germany’s pilot programme has become one of the most closely watched initiatives in this area.

Nationwide Trial Extended Following Regulatory Delays

Germany has confirmed it will extend its nationwide trial of digital co-drivers for abnormal transports until the end of June 2027. The country-wide pilot scheme was first launched in summer 2024 and was originally scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2025, when a standardised national framework was expected to be implemented.

However, delays by the Federal Ministry of Transport in developing a uniform nationwide system have prompted individual German states to agree on an extension of the trial. The decision follows positive feedback on the programme’s performance and operational benefits to date.

The extension is being implemented through identical state decrees, with several already published, including in Berlin and North Rhine-Westphalia. Other states are expected to follow, ensuring consistency across regions while the pilot continues.

Industry Support and Warnings on Fragmentation

ESTA has long supported the rollout of electronic co-driver technology and continues to advocate for a harmonised European-wide system to support heavy and abnormal transport operations.

ESTA director Ton Klijn said Germany’s decision could represent an important step toward a broader European approach.

“Germany’s move could represent an important first step towards a common European approach,” Klijn said.

However, he cautioned against a fragmented rollout of incompatible systems across different countries, warning that such an outcome would undermine the benefits of digitalisation.

Current paper-based systems require trucks to carry large volumes of documentation, which increases inefficiency, raises safety risks and heightens the likelihood of administrative errors or transport delays.

Digital Co-Driver Systems in Use

Among the solutions currently operating within the German trial are the Efficient Road Navigation Assistant (ERNA), developed by Sommer, and the IntelliDrive system from Intelliroad. Both companies are ESTA members.

These multilingual digital co-driver systems support drivers by providing GPS-linked visual and audio guidance along approved routes. Features include real-time access to permit conditions, driving restrictions, designated rest areas and route-specific instructions, helping ensure compliance while reducing driver workload.

By integrating regulatory requirements directly into navigation and guidance systems, electronic co-drivers aim to improve safety, efficiency and reliability across complex transport movements.

About ESTA

ESTA (European Association of Abnormal Road Transport and Mobile Cranes) represents the interests of abnormal road transport, heavy haulage and mobile crane operators across Europe. The association works with regulators and industry stakeholders to promote safety, efficiency and harmonisation of transport regulations, including the adoption of digital solutions for heavy transport operations.

Visit website: https://www.estaeurope.eu

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an electronic co-driver for abnormal transport?

An electronic co-driver is a digital system that supports drivers during abnormal load transport by providing GPS-linked guidance, permit conditions, route restrictions and safety information in real time.

Why has Germany extended the co-driver trial?

The extension follows delays in implementing uniform federal regulations. The pilot has been considered successful, leading states to agree on continuing the programme until June 2027.

Which regions have already approved the extension?

Identical state decrees have already been published in regions including Berlin and North Rhine-Westphalia, with others expected to follow.

Which electronic co-driver systems are currently in use?

Systems in use include the Efficient Road Navigation Assistant (ERNA) by Sommer and IntelliDrive by Intelliroad, both offering multilingual, GPS-based driver support.

Why is harmonisation important for digital co-drivers?

A harmonised system helps prevent fragmentation, reduces administrative complexity and ensures consistency for operators working across multiple regions or countries.