Höegh Aurora, World's Largest, Most Eco-Friendly Car Carrier, Makes Inaugural Call to Port Freeport
The Höegh Aurora docked at Port Freeport’s Berths 1 and 2. Photo courtesy of Port Freeport.
Port Freeport welcomed the Höegh Aurora during its inaugural visit on March 4. The Höegh Aurora is the world's largest and most environmentally friendly car carrier. This event highlights Port Freeport's strategic growth and with partners that have a shared commitment to sustainability, as well as its ongoing investments in infrastructure to support next-generation vessels.
The Höegh Aurora is a state-of-the-art roll-on/roll-off (“RORO”) vessel with advanced sustainability features, including a fuel-efficient hull and emissions-reducing technology. This design supports the global shift toward greener shipping solutions. The Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project facilitated the vessel's arrival, which deepened and widened the channel to enhance navigational safety and accommodate larger vessels.
“Port Freeport’s partnership with Höegh Autoliners continues to grow, bringing economic benefits and strengthening our role as a leading gateway for automotive trade,” said Ravi Singhania, chairman of the Port Freeport Commission. “The arrival of Höegh Aurora reflects our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, ensuring that Port Freeport remains at the forefront of global shipping advancements.”
Port Freeport and Höegh Autoliners established their RORO partnership in 2015, and since then, Höegh has played a crucial role in supporting the region’s automotive supply chain. The arrival of Höegh Aurora further strengthens this collaboration, expanding trade opportunities and reinforcing Port Freeport’s position as a key hub for global commerce.
Port Freeport’s ongoing investment in infrastructure, including the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, has positioned the port as a premier destination for large-scale vessels.
“With the deepening and widening of the Freeport Harbor Channel, we are enhancing operational efficiency and reinforcing our commitment to sustainable growth and economic prosperity,” said Phyllis Saathoff, Port Freeport executive director & CEO. “The arrival of Höegh Aurora is a testament to the forward-thinking investments we have made to support our partners and accommodate the next generation of eco-friendly vessels.”
From left to right: Emily Henderson, Amanda Veliz, Jesse Hibbetts, and Commissioner Kim Kincannon from Port Freeport; Manuel Salerno Abad, Consulate of Panama; Captain Victor C. Escamilla, master of the Höegh Aurora; Ambassador Juan B. Sosa, president of the U.S.-Panama Business Council; Jordan Mansker and David Caramante of Höegh Autoliners. Photo courtesy of Port Freeport.
As global trade continues to evolve, Port Freeport remains dedicated to fostering strong industry partnerships, expanding its capabilities, and embracing sustainability-driven innovations. The port looks forward to continued collaboration with Höegh Autoliners and other industry leaders to support the future of maritime commerce.