News

How can we reduce the risk of people being injured when heavy trucks reverse in urban environments? The Backa Säkert (Safe Reversing) project is testing a solution that detects vulnerable road users behind the vehicle, warns both the driver and people nearby – and can brake automatically if needed.

Reversing heavy trucks is a well-known risk, particularly in urban environments where pedestrians, cyclists and people working close to the vehicle may be difficult for the driver to see.

In Backa Säkert, the solution will be tested in real operational environments on heavy vehicles. The goal is straightforward: to reduce reversing collisions involving heavy trucks and vulnerable road users.

The project is led by Valma Safety AB, together with Rindab and Ohlssons, and is funded by the Swedish Transport Administration’s Skyltfonden.

We are also especially pleased to welcome Valma Safety as a new partner in SAFER.

Backa Säkert is a good example of what collaboration can add to a project: bringing together technical expertise, vehicle knowledge, real-world testing and contacts with actors that can help move a solution from development towards practical use.

Through SAFER, the project will also connect with expertise on reverse AEB, detection of vulnerable road users, vehicle integration and dialogue with transport buyers such as municipalities.

The project builds on previous findings showing that reversing is a particularly high-risk situation for refuse trucks – and on a clear need for better driver support.

Project facts

• Project: Backa Säkert – focus on heavy trucks in urban environments
• Project lead: Valma Safety AB
• Project contact: Jennie Edvardsson, Valma Safety AB
• Project partners: Valma Safety AB, Rindab and Ohlssons
• Senior advisor: Göran Tjulin
• Funder: Swedish Transport Administration – Skyltfonden
• Budget: SEK 555,200
• Project period: 1 July 2026 – 1 March 2027