Höegh Autoliners’ first Aurora-class PCTC visits Port of Amsterdam

Höegh Autoliners’ first of twelve multi-fuel Aurora-class pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) has visited the Port of Amsterdam.

The vessel, named Höegh Aurora, just like its sister PCTCs, features a multi-fuel engine that can run on marine gas oil (MGO) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). With modifications, these vessels can transition to using future zero-carbon fuels.

Being the first in the PCTC segment to receive DNV’s ammonia-ready and methanol-ready notations, these vessels are also said to be the first to be ready for carbon-free ammonia propulsion.

The shipowner expects that the PCTCs, capable of carrying up to 9,100 CEUs, will be able to cut carbon emissions per car transported by 58% from the current industry standard.

Using reinforced decks and improved internal ramp systems, the vessels can carry electric vehicles on all 14 decks. The design includes 1,500 square meters of solar panels on the upper deck, and the vessels are also ready for electric shore power for zero-emission port operations.

To remind, Höegh Aurora was named and delivered at China Merchants Heavy Industry’s yard in Jiangsu, China, in August 2024. After the delivery, the PCTC started commercial operations.

Höegh Autoliners currently has twelve Aurora-class vessels on order, with the possibility to order another four. All Auroras will sail under the Norwegian flag and will be classed by DNV.

The company named the second Aurora-class vessel, Höegh Borealis, in September 2024.