Mitsubishi adds Texas' Port Freeport to its expanding US distribution network 

MMNA began operations at Port Freeport on April 28, with more than 500 vehicles having arrived at the port in the first month of the collaboration. Port Freeport said that the deal has brought additional automotive volume and integrated logistics capabilities to the Texas Gulf Coast, reinforcing the port’s role as a leading gateway for vehicle imports, exports and distribution.

As it continues to expand its US distribution network, MMNA intends to use its new operations at Port Freeport to support the delivery of Mitsubishi vehicles to its dealer partners on the Gulf Coast and in the Midwest, ensuring faster, more efficient and more cost-effective delivery to these areas.

Having worked with Amports since 1983 at the ports of Baltimore, Maryland and Jacksonville, Florida, the OEM is now taking advantage of Port Freeport’s strategic location and coordinated services to "establish a more efficient and responsive pathway for vehicles moving from vessel arrival to market".

With Texas ranked as the state with the second-most new car sales in 2025 – with nearly 1.6 million new vehicles sold – MMNA is able to leverage Port Freeport's location to reduce inland transportation distances and improve delivery timelines.

Supporting Mitsubishi's long-term strategy for North America 

“As we continue to focus our efforts on delivering Momentum 2030, our mid-term business plan, the addition of Port Freeport to our US distribution system will be key to improving efficiency, reducing waste and speeding up deliveries to our dealer partners throughout the Gulf and the Midwest,” said Ken Konieczka, senior vice president of sales operations at MMNA.

Launched in May 2024, MMNA's Momentum 2030 strategy is centred around four key pillars: advancing electrification with a blend of powertrains; debuting at least one new or completely refreshed vehicle between FY 2024 and FY 2030; increasing dealer count to cover more sales markets across the US; and embracing technology and innovation in its sales, marketing and customer satisfaction processes.

“This collaboration allows us to take advantage of a strategically located port and a coordinated set of services that support how we move vehicles today, and to set our network up for tomorrow,” Konieczka added.

Amports CEO Vee Kachroo noted that the port operator's role in the collaboration is to support MMNA through integrated solutions that align with evolving supply chain needs, adding that the initiative "reflects how collaboration can improve the flow of vehicles and strengthen the overall supply chain".

Meanwhile, Rob Giesecke, chairman of the Port Freeport Commission, expressed pride that Port Freeport was selected as MMNA's preferred Gulf Coast port. “Working alongside Amports to facilitate these operations strengthens supply chain connectivity, supports economic growth and further positions Port Freeport as a leading gateway for vehicle imports and exports,” he explained.

A new arrival

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking this tripartite collaboration at Port Freeport coincided with the arrival of the Höegh Sunrise – a new vessel in Höegh Autoliners’ Aurora Class, which carried Mitsubishi vehicles into Freeport.

Höegh Autoliners describes its Aurora Class vessels as "the largest and most environmentally friendly pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) ever built". It claims that these vessels – of which the Höegh Sunrise is the fifth – are the first in the PCTC segment to be certified by DNV as ready to use both ammonia and methanol as fuel in the future, as well as the first in their class designed to run on zero-carbon ammonia.

Port Freeport commented that the arrival of Höegh Sunrise at the port reflects ongoing investments in more sustainable maritime transportation and supply chain solutions.