Aurora Class vessel underscores Port Freeport’s expanding role in automotive logistics, global trade and next-generation maritime infrastructure
FREEPORT, Texas (July 9, 2026) — Port Freeport welcomed the Höegh Sunrise during its inaugural call on July 1, 2026, marking another milestone in the Port’s longstanding partnership with Höegh Autoliners and reinforcing Port Freeport’s role as a major gateway for automotive logistics along the Texas Gulf Coast.
Members of the Port Freeport Commission joined Executive Director and CEO Phyllis Saathoff, representatives from Höegh Autoliners, Mitsubishi Motors North America and AMPORTS, along with the Master of the Höegh Sunrise, to commemorate the occasion with an inaugural plaque presentation at Port Freeport’s Berths 1 and 2.
A Growing Gateway for Automotive Imports and Exports
The arrival of the Höegh Sunrise highlights Port Freeport’s continued growth as a strategic hub for vehicle imports and exports. In fiscal year 2025, 198,475 vehicles were shipped through Port Freeport, reflecting the strength of the Port’s automotive business and the partnerships that support international vehicle movement through the Gulf Coast.
The inaugural call also demonstrates the Port’s ability to serve larger, next-generation vessels as global shipping and automotive supply chains continue to evolve.
Key highlights include:
- 198,475 vehicles shipped through Port Freeport in fiscal year 2025
- A partnership between Port Freeport and Höegh Autoliners dating back to 2015
- The arrival of the fifth vessel in Höegh’s Aurora Class
- Continued investment in infrastructure to support larger vessels and expanding maritime trade
- Strengthened automotive logistics capabilities for conventional, electric and high-and-heavy vehicles
“Today’s inaugural call reflects the strong relationship Port Freeport has built with Höegh Autoliners over the past decade and their continued confidence in Port Freeport,” said Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission. “On behalf of the Port Freeport Commission, we are proud to celebrate this milestone and the lasting partnership that continues to strengthen our region’s economy and support the continued growth of international trade through Port Freeport.”
Höegh Sunrise Supports Next-Generation Maritime Commerce
Port Freeport and Höegh Autoliners have partnered since 2015 to enhance automobile movement through the Gulf Coast. The Höegh Sunrise further strengthens that collaboration while supporting regional commerce, automotive logistics and international trade.
With capacity for up to 9,100 car equivalent units, Aurora Class vessels are among the largest and most environmentally advanced pure car and truck carriers in the world. The vessels are certified as ammonia-ready and methanol-ready, supporting the future of more sustainable deep-sea shipping while transporting a wide range of cargo, including conventional vehicles, electric vehicles and high-and-heavy equipment.
“The inaugural call of Höegh Sunrise marks another exciting milestone for Höegh Autoliners and reflects the strength of our partnership with Port Freeport,” said Jazmieka Smith, Key Account Manager, Höegh Autoliners. “As we continue introducing our Aurora Class vessels, we’re proud to work with partners who are investing in the infrastructure and capabilities needed to support the next generation of automotive logistics and more sustainable deep-sea shipping.”
Infrastructure Investments Position Port Freeport for Future Growth
Port Freeport’s continued infrastructure investments, including the completion of the Freeport Harbor Channel Improvement Project, have enhanced navigational safety and expanded the Port’s ability to accommodate larger vessels. These improvements position Port Freeport to meet evolving customer needs while supporting continued growth in global maritime trade.
“Welcoming Höegh Sunrise demonstrates how Port Freeport’s continued investments in infrastructure are positioning the Port to serve the next generation of vessels and the evolving needs of global trade,” said Phyllis Saathoff, Port Freeport Executive Director and CEO. “We are committed to operational excellence and providing customer-focused service, supporting jobs and the communities we serve.”
As Port Freeport continues expanding its capabilities and strengthening strategic partnerships, the Port remains focused on providing safe, efficient and reliable service to customers while supporting economic growth throughout the region. Port Freeport looks forward to welcoming future Aurora Class vessels and continuing its successful partnership with Höegh Autoliners.
About Port Freeport
Port Freeport is a leading port in the export of crude oil and natural gas liquids and ranks sixth nationally in chemicals, 13th in total foreign waterborne tonnage and fourth in the State of Texas by the same measure. A 2022 Economic Impact Study by Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that, nationally, the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobsand has a total economic output of $157.3 billion.
Port Freeport serves Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, AMPORTS, BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., Dole Fresh Fruit, The Dow Chemical Company, Enterprise Products Partners, ExxonMobil, Freeport LNG, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Glovis, Grimaldi Lines, Höegh Autoliners, Kirby Marine, Liberty Global Logistics, Linde, MEGlobal, Mitsubishi Motors, NYK RORO, Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Inc., Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, U.S. Department of Energy, Volkswagen Group of America and Vulcan Materials Company.
Media Contact
Amanda Veliz
Public Affairs Manager, Port Freeport
(979) 233-2667 ext. 4306
veliz@portfreeport.com
