Höegh Autoliners has signed a contract to build an additional four Aurora-class PCTC vessels.
The contract will extend Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora-class newbuilding programme to eight, all of which will be built by China Merchants Heavy Industry (Jiangsu). The company retains its existing option for another four vessels until the end of July 2023.
As HLPFI previously reported, the Aurora vessels will have DNV’s ammonia and methanol-ready notation, with main engine provided by MAN and bridge system supplied by Kongsberg. Together with the capacity to carry up to 9,100 cars, the Aurora-class will be the world’s largest and most environmentally friendly car carrier.
Andreas Enger, ceo of Höegh Autoliners, said: “We want to be the preferred green partner in deepsea shipping, and this is yet another concrete and decisive step on our path to zero. We are committed to building a more sustainable maritime industry in close collaboration with our partners and customers. Exercising the option demonstrates Höegh Autoliners’ commitment to the company’s green fleet renewal strategy and reiterates its confidence in future fuel opportunities.”
The company expects delivery of two Aurora vessels every six months starting from the second half of 2024.
