The Port Elizabeth Car Terminal has achieved a significant milestone by handling the first African call of the advanced cargo-handling vessel, Höegh A
The Port Elizabeth Car Terminal has achieved a significant milestone by handling the first African call of the advanced cargo-handling vessel, Höegh Aurora. With a massive capacity of 9,100 vehicles, the vessel unloaded 1,966 imported vehicles from Bremerhaven in Germany and Santander in Spain. This marks a notable development in the terminal’s growing reputation as a key player in South Africa’s automotive logistics chain.
Wandisa Vazi, Managing Executive for Transnet Port Terminals in the Eastern Cape, praised the successful operation, emphasizing the terminal’s efficiency in managing high-volume shipments and its role in bolstering South Africa’s automotive sector. She credited meticulous pre-arrival planning, close collaboration with shipping representatives, and rigorous safety protocols for the seamless handling of the vessel.
Port Elizabeth Car Terminal
“Welcoming Höegh Aurora is a proud moment for our terminal. It demonstrates our ability to manage high-volume shipments efficiently while showcasing our commitment to supporting South Africa’s automotive sector. The terminal demonstrated its readiness through meticulous pre-arrival planning with shipping line representatives and the stevedoring company,” said Wandisa Vazi.
The terminal’s performance over the first seven months of the 2024/2025 financial year underscores its operational excellence. It surpassed its target by 8%, handling 114,041 fully built units (FBU) compared to the budgeted 105,596 FBU. This success has solidified its position as a trusted partner for global automakers and a driver of long-term industry partnerships.
Following a 16-hour offloading operation, Höegh Aurora departed Gqeberha for Durban before heading back to Europe, demonstrating the terminal’s capacity to handle complex, high-volume logistics effectively.