The ETE Group’s operational excellence and rapid, strategic response reinforce its national leadership in the sector.

The ETE Group, a national leader in port operations, has once again demonstrated its management capabilities and efficiency in handling highly complex operations. On 18 and 19 November, the Port of Leixões hosted a pioneering operation to load 551 vehicles, from four different car manufacturers, for export. This operation was 100 per cent Portuguese in nature, from the manufacturer to the port operator, and is expected to result in the export of more than 10,000 vehicles per year.

The Leixões General and Bulk Cargo Terminal (TCGL), a company within the ETE Group, led an innovative port operation that reinforces the prominent role of Portuguese operators and the Port of Leixões in the international maritime industry.

The operation involved the shipment of 551 light commercial vehicles from Stellantis’ four distinct brands (Citroën, Fiat, Peugeot and Opel), manufactured at the Mangualde plant, bound for international markets.

Crucial to the success of this latest challenge were the collaboration and commitment of the ETE Group companies – TCGL and Navex – working in close coordination with logistics partners and the operations team at the Port Authority of the Douro, Leixões and Viana do Castelo (APDL). The swift and coordinated response to a complex logistical challenge enabled the efficient loading of vehicles onto a Ro-Ro vessel in the area concession to TCGL, in a pioneering operation for the port.

Stellantis emphasises the importance of this operation, which reflects its commitment to sustainable mobility and the decarbonisation of the automotive sector. For this production facility, it is also vital that its vehicle dispatch operations are carried out in Portugal by Portuguese partners, thereby contributing to the development and growth of the national economy.

Technical specifications of the MV Auto Energy

The MV Auto Energy is a vessel 181 metres long and 32 metres wide, designed specifically for the transport of vehicles. It has a capacity of up to 4,000 vehicles (standard), with its main distinguishing feature being that it is an LNG-powered vessel, which highlights the sustainability of the transport operations it provides.

A direct contribution to the positioning of Portuguese ports within the international industry

This operation highlights the strategic importance of automotive exports via national ports, promoting Portuguese industry and contributing to economic growth.

It also exemplifies operational excellence, a spirit of innovation and the responsiveness of national teams, positioning Portuguese port operators – notably the ETE Group (TCGL) – and the Port of Leixões as leading specialists in the European port sector.