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Höegh Autoliners Sets New Standard with Aurora Class: The Largest and Greenest PCTC Fleet

In nearly a century of maritime innovation, Höegh Autoliners has continually pushed the envelope, steering the future of ocean transport. The latest milestone in this journey is the Aurora Class, which is poised to become the largest and most environmentally friendly Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) ever constructed.

These new vessels mark a significant leap forward, not only for Höegh Autoliners but for the entire deep-sea shipping industry. They are set to revolutionize the transportation of cars, breakbulk, and heavy machinery across the globe, showcasing the feasibility of shifting from conventional fuels to sustainable alternatives. The Aurora Class is more than just a fleet; it’s a bold statement about the future of maritime transport.

The Aurora vessels are the first in the PCTC segment to receive DNV’s ammonia-ready and methanol-ready notations. This means they are prepared for zero-carbon ammonia propulsion, with the main engine supplied by MAN and the bridge system by Kongsberg Maritime. This pioneering step underscores Höegh Autoliners’ commitment to driving the industry towards a net-zero future.

With a capacity to carry up to 9,100 Car Equivalent Units (CEUs), these ships are designed not just for today’s cargo but for the demands of the future. They aim to slash carbon emissions per transported car by 58% compared to the current industry standard, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of customers’ value chains. This makes the Aurora Class a key player in Höegh Autoliners’ ambitious green fleet renewal program.

The construction of twelve Aurora vessels is already underway, with an option for four more. These ships are contracted under the Norwegian flag and classified by DNV. The first Aurora is set to be delivered in Q2 2024 and will begin commercial operations by August 2024. By mid-2027, all twelve vessels will be operational, featuring engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and low-sulfur oil, and convertible to ammonia.

The Auroras are built with strengthened decks and enhanced internal ramp systems, allowing them to carry electric vehicles across all 14 decks and provide flexibility for heavier project cargo. Additionally, each vessel will be equipped with 1,500 square meters of solar panels on the top deck and will be ready to utilize electric shore power, ensuring emissions-free operations while docked.

Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora Class represents a monumental stride towards achieving the 2040 net-zero emissions goal. With these state-of-the-art vessels, the company is not just adapting to the future; it is actively shaping it, demonstrating that sustainable deep-sea transportation is not just possible but practical and imminent.

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