Höegh Autoliners orders first-ever ammonia engines for car carriers

Höegh Autoliners has made a significant leap in maritime technology by placing a historic order for ammonia-burning Everllence B&W ME-LGIA engines. This marks the first time such engines will power car carriers globally. The order includes four dual-fuel engines, set to be delivered to an Asian shipyard for the construction of four new 9,100 car equivalent unit (ceu) vessels, establishing a new size benchmark in the car carrier industry.

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Sebjørn Dahl, the Chief Operations Officer of Höegh Autoliners, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The engines are the beating heart of our vessels, and we take it as a clear mark of confidence that Everllence has chosen us to install some of the world’s first two-stroke ammonia engines on our final four Aurora Class vessels.” This collaboration highlights a commitment to innovation and sustainability in shipping, as ammonia is increasingly recognized as a viable alternative fuel source.

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Bjarne Foldager, Head of Two-Stroke Business at Everllence, emphasized the significance of this order within a broader context. He noted, “This order – one of several ammonia pilot projects we have in China, Japan, and South Korea – gives us encouragement that we are on the right path, as does the widespread industry interest in our progress.” Foldager also pointed out the importance of a responsible and safety-first approach in developing the ammonia engine, given the fuel’s unique risk profile. He is optimistic that ammonia will emerge as one of three major alternative fuels in the maritime sector, alongside methanol and methane.

Christian Ludwig, who oversees two-stroke sales and promotion at Everllence, provided insights into the engine’s development. He stated, “We have now been running our two-stroke ammonia test engine since 2023 and can confirm that the ME-LGIA’s combustion is right where we want it.” Ludwig highlighted that the ME-LGIA engine concept retains many advantages of existing dual-fuel engines that have been operational for over a decade. Inspired by these advancements, Everllence is also implementing the same sealing-oil design for the fuel-booster injection valves, further enhancing the engine’s efficiency and reliability.