Höegh Autoliners Expands Aurora-Class Fleet with Third Delivery

• Norwegian shipping company Höegh Autoliners has received its third Aurora-class PCTC, Höegh Australis, from China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI) Haimen Shipyard on January 5, 2025.
• The 9,100 CEU vessel is equipped with multi-fuel engines running on marine gas oil (MGO) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), with future modifications enabling zero-carbon fuel usage.
• Höegh Autoliners plans to have all 12 Aurora-class vessels operational by 2027, supporting its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

According to Offshore energy, Höegh Autoliners has officially added the third vessel, Höegh Australis, to its Aurora-class fleet, recognized as the “world’s largest and most environmentally friendly” pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs). Designed by Deltamarin, the ship measures 199.9 meters in length, 37.6 meters in width, and boasts a carrying capacity of 9,100 vehicles. Höegh Australis has set sail from the CMHI Haimen Shipyard and will commence operations later this month.

Advancing Sustainability Goals

The Aurora-class vessels represent a significant step in Höegh Autoliners’ mission to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. These ships feature cutting-edge multi-fuel engines capable of transitioning to zero-carbon fuels such as ammonia and methanol. With advanced design and technology, the vessels aim to reduce carbon emissions per car transported by 58%, setting a new standard in the PCTC industry.

A Fleet Paving the Way for Green Shipping

The Aurora-class program, including Höegh Aurora and Höegh Borealis delivered in 2024, underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability. All vessels are flagged under Norway and classified by DNV with ammonia-ready and methanol-ready notations. Equipped with MAN ES main engines and Kongsberg Maritime bridge systems, the ships are prepared for zero-carbon ammonia propulsion, marking a first in the PCTC sector.

Looking Ahead

With deliveries of the Aurora-class fleet continuing through 2027, Höegh Autoliners remains on track to revolutionize environmentally conscious maritime transport. These advancements reinforce its leadership in sustainable shipping practices, setting a benchmark for the global industry.