DAF records strongest ever European performance

A strong performance in the UK helped DAF Trucks strengthen its position in the European truck market last year (Transport Operator 33).

In the heavy truck segment (16+ tonnes), a European market share of 16.2 per cent was achieved, a record in the 85-year history of the company. With a market share of 11.8 per cent (another all-time record) DAF was also very successful in the light segment (6-16 tonnes).

The total market for heavy commercial vehicles in the European Union in 2013 was almost 241,000 units; an increase of about 8 per cent compared to 2012, when almost 222,000 trucks were registered.

DAF expects that the total market for heavy trucks in Europe will fall in 2014 to between 200,000 to 230,000 vehicles.

Ron Bonsen, the director of DAF Trucks NV responsible for marketing and sales, said: “There were many highlights in 2013, with the introduction of a completely new range of Euro 6 vehicles as the major theme. We are receiving excellent feedback from our customers, especially in terms of fuel efficiency and driving characteristics. The new Euro 6 LF, CF and XF play an important role in further increasing our success, together with a complete range of services and a professional dealer network.”

DAF Trucks UK managing director Ray Ashworth said: “We are delighted with DAF’s performance across Europe and proud that our own achievements here in the UK have played an important part in that success.

“Our whole team – in house and throughout our dealer network – can take credit for DAF’s outstanding sales and market share.”