Germany extends electronic co-driver trial until 2027

Germany has extended its nationwide trial of electronic co-drivers for abnormal transports until the end of June 2027, following delays in the introduction of uniform federal regulations.

The country-wide pilot scheme was first launched in summer 2024 and was originally scheduled to end on December 31, 2025, when a standardized national framework was expected to come into force. However, delays by the Federal Ministry of Transport in developing a nationwide system have prompted individual states across Germany to agree on an extension of the trial, which has so far been considered successful.

The extended trial is being implemented through identical state decrees, with several already published, including in Berlin and North Rhine-Westphalia.

ESTA has long supported the introduction of digital co-drivers and continues to advocate for a harmonised European-wide system to improve safety and efficiency in heavy transport operations. ESTA director Ton Klijn said Germany’s move could represent an important first step towards a common European approach.

He warned, however, that a fragmented rollout of incompatible systems across different countries would be counterproductive. Current paper-based systems require trucks to carry extensive documentation, increasing inefficiency, safety risks, and the likelihood of errors or delays.

Among the solutions currently in use are the Efficient Road Navigation Assistant (ERNA), developed by Sommer, and the IntelliDrive system from Intelliroad, both ESTA members. These multilingual systems support drivers by providing GPS-linked visual and audio guidance along approved routes, including permit conditions, driving restrictions, and designated rest areas.