Hoegh Autoliners Expands LNG PCTC Fleet to 18 | Mariner News

Hoegh Autoliners has significantly expanded its green fleet transition, placing an order for six additional LNG dual-fuel pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs). This latest order, announced by the Norwegian shipping firm, will bring its “Aurora class” newbuild programme to a total of 18 firm vessels.

The six new PCTCs are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2031 and will be constructed by China Merchants Heavy Industry (Jiangsu). The company also holds options for four more vessels and slot reservations for another four, indicating a potential further increase in its advanced PCTC capacity.

Each Aurora-class vessel is designed to carry up to 9,100 cars, offering up to a 58% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional PCTCs. Beyond their LNG dual-fuel capability, these ships will also feature DNV’s ammonia- and methanol-ready notation. This design choice positions them for potential conversion to these future fuels, providing long-term operational flexibility as alternative fuel infrastructure and viability evolve.

This substantial investment in LNG dual-fuel, ammonia- and methanol-ready tonnage underscores Hoegh Autoliners’ strategic positioning in the PCTC market. The significant fleet expansion by the early 2030s could intensify competitive pressure on operators relying solely on older, less emission-efficient vessels, particularly as charterers and cargo owners increasingly demand greener logistics solutions. While LNG offers immediate emissions reductions and established availability, the integrated future-fuel readiness addresses the longer-term decarbonization imperative, acknowledging the ongoing evolution of marine fuel options beyond current established alternatives.