Nor-Shipping 2027 Thought Leader – Leif O. Høegh, CHAIR, Höegh Autoliners
With plans to celebrate his family’s 100 years in shipping in 2027, Leif O. Høegh (CHAIR Höegh Autoliners) takes a moment to reflect on the company’s bold, ‘first mover’ legacy. In 1927, a young Norwegian entrepreneur named Leif Høegh ordered his first vessel, a tanker named Varg. Backed by the legendary Danish shipowner A.P Møller, ...
Leif O. Høegh, chair of Höegh Autoliners, celebrates the company's 100-year legacy in shipping and reflects on its history. Founded in 1927 by Leif Høegh, the company initially operated a small fleet of oil tankers before diversifying into various shipping segments. While some investments proved unsuccessful, the company has not accumulated capital for the past two decades. Høegh emphasizes the importance of taking risks, stating that "if you don't take any risks, you don't learn anything."
The company's entry into the car carrier market in 1970 led to the creation of Höegh-Ugland Auto Liners (HUAL) and later the Pure Car Truck Carriers (PCTC) in 1980s. In 2000, Höegh Autoliners acquired Ugland's stake and rebranded as Höegh Autoliners. Sustainability is a core strategy for the company, with high-capacity Horizon class vessels delivering 50% less CO2 per unit transported compared to conventional car carriers.
The company recently placed an order for 18 multi-fuel Aurora class PCTCs, which will be capable of operating with zero emissions, making them "the crown jewels of our ground-breaking fleet renewal programme."
Despite the uncertain future in the shipping industry, Høegh encourages taking risks and being a first mover. The company is working with industry partners to decarbonize supply chains and ensure reliable supply of fuels. At Nor-Shipping 2027, Höegh Autoliners aims to connect with industry partners, showcase sustainable solutions, and contribute to the conversation on a more sustainable maritime future.
Written by urgent.news from Hellenic Shipping News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.