Höegh Autoliners’ Fifth Aurora-Class PCTC Enters Service with Multi-Fuel Capability

Höegh Autoliners has launched commercial operations for its fifth Aurora-class Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), the Höegh Sunrise. The vessel, with a capacity of 9,100 car equivalent units (CEU), is currently en route to Shanghai for bunkering, followed by stops in Japan and Europe.

The Aurora-class fleet, comprising twelve ships, is equipped with multi-fuel engines capable of operating on marine gas oil (MGO) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). The vessels are designed to accommodate a future transition to zero-carbon fuels through necessary modifications.

These ships are reportedly the first in the PCTC segment to receive ammonia-ready and methanol-ready notations from classification society DNV.

As part of Höegh Autoliners’ goal to become a net-zero emissions operator by 2040, the Aurora-class carriers are expected to reduce carbon emissions per vehicle transported by approximately 58% compared to current industry standards.

Additionally, the vessels can connect to shore power while at port, allowing auxiliary engines to be turned off and enabling zero-emission cargo operations during loading and unloading.