Höegh Autoliners: First Aurora class vessel embarks on sea trials

The first of twelve multi-fuel Aurora-class vessels ordered by Norway-based shipping company Höegh Autoliners has left the shipyard for its first sea trial.

The pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) is being built at China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI) in Jiangsu.

In the next ten days, the newbuilding will be sailing in the ocean east of Shanghai, the company revealed.

The ship is commencing sea trials after weeks of testing, making sure the equipment is ready and ensuring seaworthiness.

“This is another tangible step towards the net zero future, we are pursuing. The Aurora Class is the largest and most environmentally friendly car carrier ever built,” Höegh Autoliners said.

The vessel, which will have the capacity to carry up to 9,100 cars, was floated out of the drydock in January this year.

Back in January 2022, Höegh Autoliners entered into a contract with CMHI for four fixed and eight optional multi-fuel and zero-carbon ready Aurora-class vessels. The vessels’ multi-fuel engine can run on marine gas oil (MGO) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). With modifications, the vessels can transition to use future zero-carbon fuels including ammonia or methanol.  

The program is progressing at full speed with the option for vessels nine to twelve declared, including an option for installing ammonia engines on these vessels. The company has secured committed financing for all of the ordered Aurora-class vessels on attractive terms.

The newbuilding program is expected to be crucial in realizing the company’s ambition to be a net zero emissions operator by 2040.