DAF unveils new distribution and construction range
UK market leader DAF unveiled its new generation of distribution and construction trucks at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover, Germany in September. As expected, the new ranges feature an all-new truck based on the latest XF/XG design: the first in the world to take advantage of reform of European dimensions regulations to increase aerodynamic efficiency, driver comfort, and safety. The innovations of the XF/FG series helped DAF to leadership of the European tractor unit market this year.
DAF said the MX-11 engine that will be fitted as standard to the ‘distribution’ XD truck and to lighter-weight versions of the XDC ‘construction’ vehicle is new too, but the range of outputs offered (300 hp – 450 hp) remains unchanged from the predecessor engine. The latest ZF TraXon automated manual transmission is standard on all chassis.
The most significant change from the outgoing CF truck is the cab, and the relationship that it allows its driver to have with the surrounding road. The CF had a comparatively high cab waistline for a distribution/regional haulage truck, with consequentially relatively poor kerbside vision.
This has been addressed by the all-new cab featuring deeper windscreen and side-window lines, and a ‘Vision’ dashboard that curves forward on the passenger side to expose the maximum amount of side-window. A Kerb View Window in the nearside door and a folding passenger seat can be specified to further improve near-side vision.
In terms of technical enhancement, DAF now offers camera support in the form of Digital Vision System (which replaces the conventional mirrors), Corner View (285-degree vision on the nearside A-pillar), and Turn Assist (warnings when vulnerable road users are in the kerbside blind spot) systems.
The cockpit ergonomics are laid out in line with the DAF philosophy of ‘hands on the wheel, eyes on the road’, with all functions related to driving controlled by switches on the steering wheel, and secondary functions by physical dashboard switches. Optional navigation and entertainment systems are, however, controlled by touchscreen.
Exterior lighting is all LED, and the usual driver assistant features can be specified.
There’s a new front-end for the chassis, and new cab and rear-axle suspension.
The XDC construction variants are manufactured in two, three and four-axle form, with double-drive available where required. Approach angle is 25 degrees, and ground clearance is 33 – 39 cm. There is a robust front bumper and grille, and a steel bash plate for the radiator. The TraXon transmission can be specified with dedicated software for off-road driving, and the construction version is also offered with DAF’s big MX-13 engine which has outputs of up to 530 bhp.
Many exterior aerodynamic features, including the curved front, have been ‘borrowed’ from the XD/XG long-haul trucks. Inside, the driving position is widely adjustable, and the new cab design affords interior volumes of up to 10m3 in the Sleeper High Cab variant. Even the Day Cab has more interior space than its predecessor, thanks to the extended cab front, and a third seat or centre-mounted fridge can be specified as factory-fit options.
In sleeper-cab versions, the bunks measure 2,220 mm x maximum 750 mm wide. An optional 50 mm deep mattress toper is offered.
Production of the XD version commences this Autumn, with XDC models and an all-electric XD to follow next year.
