Höegh Aurora, the world’s largest and most environmentally advanced car carrier, has successfully completed a landmark LNG bunkering operation in Shanghai during her maiden voyage. This historic event, marking Höegh Autoliners’ first-ever LNG bunkering, was finalized on August 10th and represents a significant step toward the company’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
The Höegh Aurora, the first of 12 Aurora Class vessels, was officially delivered and named at China Merchants Heavy Industry’s shipyard in Jiangsu, China, on August 6. Just two days later, she set out on her maiden voyage to Japan, equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to reduce carbon emissions and prepared for future fuels like ammonia and methanol.
The LNG bunkering operation in Shanghai, which began shortly after her departure, took approx. 12 hours to complete. It was conducted by Höegh Autoliners’ dedicated operations team, who ensured everything was executed flawlessly. The completion of this operation on August 10th is a milestone in Höegh Autoliners’ ongoing efforts to lead the industry in sustainable maritime transport.
Höegh Aurora is a pioneering vessel that sets new standards in the shipping industry. By emitting approximately 58% less CO2 per car/CEU than the industry average, she is at the forefront of the transition to greener deep-sea transportation. Her advanced features include a capacity of up to 9,100 cars, strengthened decks, and enhanced internal ramp systems, allowing for the transportation of electric vehicles on all 14 decks.
Additionally, Höegh Aurora is equipped with 1,500 square meters of solar panels on the top deck, reducing the need for generator-produced electricity by up to 35%. She is also prepared to embrace electric shore power, enabling emissions-free port operations.
The Höegh Aurora and the rest of the Aurora Class are the results of extensive collaboration with industry leaders such as China Merchants Heavy Industries, Kongsberg Maritime, DNV, DeltaMarin, MAN Energy Systems, MacGregor, TGE Marine, Bank of Communications, HD Hyundai, Glamox, and more.
Sailing under the Norwegian flag, the Höegh Aurora is more than just a vessel—she symbolizes the future of deep-sea transportation, leading the charge toward a more sustainable shipping industry. Her successful bunkering operation on August 10th sets a strong precedent for the journey ahead as she continues her voyage to Japan.
Hoegh Aurora
- Year Built: 2024
- DWT: 25,200
- GT: 83,687
- Cargo Capacity: 9,100 CEU
- Flag: Norwegian
- Max Deck Height: 6.5 m
- Max Door Width: 19 m
- Max Ramp Capacity: 375 MT
- Length Overall: 199.90 m
- Breadth (MLD): 37.8 m
The Aurora Class sets a new benchmark in the maritime industry, driving forward the transition to sustainable shipping and exemplifying Höegh Autoliners’ commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
Höegh Autoliners
Höegh Autoliners is a leading global provider of ocean transportation services within the Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) segment. and operate a global network of deep-sea trades with Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessels. Höegh Autoliners offer our customers safe and secure deep-sea transportation of RoRo cargo such as cars, high and heavy machinery and breakbulk. Each year, Höegh Autoliners transport around 1,6 million car equivalent units (ceu) as well as other rolling and static cargo.
Höegh Autoliners, operating 11 trade routes in global trade systems with approximately 3,000 port calls annually, boasts a fleet of around 40 vessels designed for maximum flexibility. The company serves a diverse range of customers, from global vehicle manufacturers to producers of high and heavy construction equipment, emphasizing its leading position in transporting second-hand vehicles.
With a global presence through 16 local offices and dedicated agencies, Höegh Autoliners prioritizes customer proximity. The company’s commitment extends beyond business to economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, as it continually strives for sustainable development and energy-efficient solutions.
Source Hoegh Autoliners