Höegh Autoliners orders six additional Aurora class vessels

Höegh Autoliners ASA has announced its intention to order six additional Aurora class vessels, bringing its total to eighteen. These vessels, which will be built by China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI) in China, will be delivered between 2029 and 2031. Höegh Autoliners has secured favorable terms for these orders, reflecting its strong relationship with the yard and the cost benefits of building repeat vessels.

The company has also reserved the option to build four more vessels under the same terms, with a six-month window to exercise this option. Additionally, Höegh Autoliners has secured four slot reservations for further vessels, with the ability to claim these slots by December 31, 2027. This expansion will allow Höegh Autoliners to accelerate its green fleet renewal program and potentially increase its fleet size to twenty-six Aurora class vessels.

The Aurora class vessels are equipped with DNV ammonia and methanol ready notation, featuring main engines from Everllence and bridge systems from Kongsberg Maritime. With a capacity to carry up to 9,100 cars, these vessels have the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 58% compared to conventional PCTCs. Höegh Autoliners' CEO, Andreas Enger, emphasized the strong earnings potential, carbon performance, cargo flexibility, and future-proof conversion capability of the Aurora class.