DAF Driver Magazine Summer 2021 - Issue 25

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DAF DRIVER ISSUE 25

/ SUMMER 2021

INSIDE THE UK’S #1 TRUCK MANUFACTURER

In this issue

New Generation DAF Revealed Exclusive pictures!

Watts

AC Cobra Driving the Legend Wilcox...

150 years in business

is Ready to Go

CECIL’S XF EXTREME LATEST DAF TRUCKS NEWS • UK DEALER LOCATOR • OPERATOR SUCCESS STORIES • INDUSTRY OPINION • COMPETITION

NEW GENERATION DAF

Start the Future

With the New Generation XG and XG+, DAF introduces an entirely new vehicle platform.

Outstanding fuel efficiency and superior safety are combined with a unique level of driver comfort, marking a new era for the truck industry. Step inside and start the future of road transport today.

WWW.STARTTHEFUTURE.COM *Depending on the road traffic conditions, cargo and type of vehicle.

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

10 %* LOW E R F U E L CONSUMPTION + SUPERIOR SAFE T Y + T H E P I N N AC L E O F C O M F O R T, S PAC E A N D LU X U R Y

WELCOME FROM YOUR PUBLISHER

WELCOME TO THE LATEST EDITION OF DAF DRIVER MAGAZINE

Welcome to what is without doubt the most important issue of DAF Driver magazine ever!

Publisher - Matthew Eisenegger

IT’S A NEW DAF, IT’S A NEW DAWN, IT’S A NEW DAY!

W

e make no apology for the fact that there is so much coverage of the new DAF XF, XG and XG+ truck launch in this magazine, because it is arguably the most significant change for the British truck industry since Edwin Foden switched from steam to diesel.

Here is a truck that offers the driver more space than any other on the European market, but also incorporates better aerodynamic and mechanical efficiencies than ever before, together with huge improvements in passive and active safety both for the truck’s driver and for other road users.

While there has been increasing talk of ‘trucks of the future’ in the last few years, this has mostly focussed on unproven driveline technologies that may never actually see the light of day. The new DAF is, here and now, a whole generation ahead of anything else on the market.

Although DAF is firmly wedded still to diesel as its lead technology (with HVO as a clean, low-carbon pour-in alternative), the company is working on other energy sources too. But it rightly points out

that, for long-haul applications, they will need a distribution network that just doesn’t exist yet, and the planning, funding and construction of such a network, or networks, is still many years away.

Meanwhile, the existing engine range has been refined, and the temptation to enter the ‘glory’ market over 550 hp has been resisted. Truth is, most operators are focussed on efficiency, and the tweaks to the current 530 hp version of the PACCAR MX-13 engine more than meet the vast majority of requirements.

For the moment, the main focus is on the driver. The new cabs offer more living room than ever before, and the standard of materials, fit and finish have created a truck that any driver will be proud to get behind the wheel of. And, just as important, a truck that he or she will still be pleased to be driving at the end of a shift when a night-out is on the cards.

Seeing, as always, will be believing. And I think we’ll be seeing quite a lot of these trucks in the coming months and years.

The Bigger Picture

Look out for the dynamic QR codes in this issue of DAF Driver magazine.

Simply open the camera on your mobile device and point it at the code, then sit back for some exciting additional content.

Enjoy the issue!

Matthew SUMMER 2021 DAF DRIVER

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FEATURES 6 Family Values BH Cecil’s sensational XF celebrates a centenary of trucking

12 Cobra Bites Back 62 years on the latest AC Cobra keeps the legend alive

18 DAF Trucks Virtual Truck Show Over 400 entries for truck show #2

21 The New Generation

DAF’s knockout new XF, XG and XG+ in detail

37 From Ironmongery to Heavy Metal

REGULARS 3 WELCOME Matthew looks ahead, and back at a legend

47 SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Can you?

54 SIMPSON SAYS Our man is impressed with the New Generation DAF

60 TRAINER’S NOTES Look after your brain, says Mandy

61 MEET THE TRAINERS Stuart Key

150 years in business for DAF dealer Watts

40 Wilcox Acquired New owners for the tipper and mixer manufacturer

48 95 Not Out DAF Virtual Truck Show’s worthy winner

62 Charging Ahead FSEW orders UK’s first electric tractor units from DAF Trucks p62

p60

INFORMATION EDITORIAL Publisher: Matthew Eisenegger Managing Editor: John Kendall Designer: Harold Francis Callahan Editorial Address: Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd, 4th Floor 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQ Telephone: 01257 231521 Email: matthew@cvdriver.com ADVERTISING Advertising Sales: David Johns Telephone: 01388 517906 Mobile: 07590 547343 Email: sales@cvdriver.com DESIGN Art Editor: Harold Francis Callahan Telephone: 01257 231521 Email: design@cvdriver.com CONTRIBUTORS Richard Simpson Mandy Wannerton Mark Ballentyne Karl Hopkinson James Disdale Ronnie Hitchens Jack Sunderland John Kendall Steve Banner Matthew Eisenegger PUBLISHER Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd, 4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQ Telephone: 01257 231521 NOTE The publisher makes every effort to ensure the magazine’s contents are correct. All material published in DAF Driver magazine is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden.

The Editors and Publisher of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition.

DAF Driver Magazine is published under a licence from Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd. All rights in the licensed material belong to Matthew Eisenegger or Commercial Vehicle Media and Publishing Ltd and may not be reproduced whether in whole or in part, without their prior written consent. DAF Driver Magazine is a registered trademark.

If you are not going to keep this magazine for future reference please pass it on or recycle it.

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OPERATOR FEATURE

FAMILY VALUES BH Cecil’s Centenary Sensation

Words: Matthew Eisenegger

B

ased in Blakeney in the Forest of Dean, BH Cecil & Sons vehicles have been a common site on the lanes of Gloucestershire since 1920. Paul Cecil, the ‘gaffer’ who took over the reins of the business in 2008, waxes lyrical about the family’s history in transport. The company was founded in 1920 by his great grandfather and by way of a tribute to the family firm’s centenary, Paul has dedicated his latest DAF XF to the history of the business. The truck tells the story through fantastically executed airbrushing by top truck artist Adam Haden, who graphically

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Photographs: Karl Hopkinson

catalogues a beautiful selection of classic commercial vehicles used in the fleet since its humble beginnings. As well as the exterior, the interior has also received special attention, which would put the most opulent 5-star hotel room to shame.

The Business Like any forward-thinking operator BH Cecil & Sons doesn’t like to have all its eggs in one basket. The backbone of the work is national and international general haulage and comes from a variety of sources. The Cecil fleet is by

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OPERATOR FEATURE

The immaculate paintwork includes Cecil family images and vehicles from the past

no means massive, consisting of seven vehicles, six tractor units and a rigid.

The artics are made up of five DAFs, including a single CF and a mix of XF 105s and XF 106s, including the new one and a very special 1.7 million kms 17-year-old XF 95 which is currently working on a special contract in the Ukraine. The final artic is a single Volvo FH. The only rigid on the fleet is an unmarked DAF CF fridge box, again on a special contract. An important part of the company’s work is in the movement of high-pressure steam boilers, much of it at STGO CAT 2.

that it is very special. The whole family value carries over into the immaculate fleet presentation. The centenary special, L400 CEC, was ordered as an XF530 FTS Super Space Cab with twin wheels on the tag axle for enhanced stability, to deal with the more cumbersome heavy loads.

Power comes from the PACCAR MX13 530 engine, delivering 2,600Nm of torque. In keeping with a lot of smaller fleets and owner drivers, Paul specified the unit with the manual ZF Ecosplit 16 speed box and ZF Intarder.

GCW and he feels that at that weight, the ZF manual may be a bit better, but there’s also a very valid commercial reason, as the vehicle has been specified to deal with heavier weights, the manual ‘box makes it far more desirable in its second life. Like all trucks that get ‘that special touch’, the vehicle that was ordered from Motus in Gloucester in the middle of 2019, bears only a slight resemblance to the vehicle that went on the road in mid-2021. The green of the cab is DAF Emerald Green that coincidently matched BH Cecil’s fleet colour.

Happy Birthday Anybody who has seen any of the BH Cecil & Sons fleet on the road, will know

The reason behind the manual transmission is twofold. Firstly, the vehicle works regularly at 65 tonnes

Once delivered, the real work began on personalising the XF. This meant an immense amount of conversion and

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OPERATOR FEATURE

“THE CENTENARY SPECIAL WAS ORDERED AS AN XF 530 SUPER SPACE CAB WITH TWIN WHEELS ON THE TAG AXLE.” customising work. As many will know, the modification of a vehicle, moving it away from a base specification, can become a long and convoluted process.

Paul had hand-picked who he wanted and what he wanted them to do.

Interior and exterior additions such as lockers, skirts, chassis infill, exhaust, and the fitment of the Hypro light bar, would be carried out by Sjaak Kentie Truckspecials in the Netherlands.

Vehicle paintwork would be entrusted to specialist vehicle painter Haydon Auto Spray in Radstock near Bath.

All electrical work such as beacons and safety camera systems would be the responsibility of the supplying dealer Motus. The icing on the cake, namely

the airbrushing, would be carried out at Haydon Auto Spray by Adam Haden. The Cecil family explained what they wanted regarding the theme, provided Adam with the pictures and left him to it.

From delivery, the first port of call was to put the truck on the boat to the Netherlands for the exterior work to be carried out, then back to the UK to the paint shop for the exterior paint work. Then to Motus for the electrical work. Once completed, it was back out to the Netherlands for the interior to be decked out. Then back to the paint shop to allow Adam Haden to work his airbrushing alchemy. Once the artwork including the signwriting was complete, 12 coats of lacquer were applied to

the entire vehicle to both protect and enhance the fantastic artwork. Finally, back to Motus for the final fit and predelivery inspection.

The vehicle was ready to go to work in October 2020 but Paul was very reluctant to put the new XF out to work. Salting of the roads was about to commence and as the vehicle was an addition to the fleet, not a replacement, the fleet could just pick up any extra work, leaving the new vehicle to go on the road when the time and conditions were right. Paul is also very keen to point out that as much as the XF is a celebration of 100 years in transport, it is most definitely not a show piece.

When we caught up with Paul and

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OPERATOR FEATURE

the truck at Truckfest West Midlands at Malvern, the vehicle had already racked up over 13,000kms and had just returned from Italy.

The Finished Article Although the factory colour matched perfectly with the company’s fleet green, Haydon Auto Spray added additional coats to give an extra depth of colour before the airbrushing. They also finished the chassis, driveline and ancillaries in Masons Ayres Red, which on scrutiny is finished like glass. Without doubt the quality of the paintwork is absolutely second to none!

The airbrushing of the vehicle is a fine example of artist Adam Haden’s work.

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The theme of the XF very much tells the story of the three generations of transport history.

Many of the vehicles used in the company’s history are depicted within the artwork but more importantly, so are the family. Founder Bertram Harold Cecil, and his four sons Gelbert, Roy, John and Richard. The next generation namely Geoff (Paul’s dad) can be found at the end of the chassis on the infill.

The interior is nothing short of amazing, the entire living space is finished in Ivory, using the finest leather on the seats and Chesterfield button on the cab walls. The centenary company logo is tastefully embroidered

in Emerald green into the head rests, while all switches are also colour coded to match the green exterior colour. The finishing touch is the inclusion of a sepia print dating back to the start of the company, depicting a working truck.

Praise be!

We asked Paul how he describes the company’s relationship with MOTUS in Gloucester, “The service is exceptional, Barry Fields, who runs the site and the entire team really understand that we are a family business and what we need from them”. He even goes on to add that “Everyone has a truck that breaks down, but it’s how they deal with you that counts.”

Paul is equally complementary about

OPERATOR FEATURE

DAFaid, “We had a fanbelt break in Dortmund, I rang DAFaid in Europe and the guy on the phone recognised my name and the truck as it had won the ‘Cleanest Truck Award’ at the truck show in Assen in the Netherlands”.

The Future We asked Paul what he thought of the new range, “They’ve absolutely nailed it”, in fact he’s exclusively revealed to DAF Driver Magazine that he has already ordered one! Following tradition, the XG+, which is due on the road in 2022, will recognise the ancient tradition of Salmon fishing in the Severn and Wye rivers.

Paul takes a bit of time explain his

rationale. One of the companies BH Cecil distributes for is the Severn and Wye Smokery in Westbury-on-Severn, which as the name indicates, smokes and sells locally caught salmon to the most famous restaurants, fine dining establishments and high-end retailers. The new vehicle will showcase the history of this very old process of salmon fishing in the Severn and Wye rivers and Paul feels he wants to celebrate local history with a special livery and custom artwork.

Chatting to Paul, you can tell he is immensely proud of his family and the heritage they have in the road transport industry. His enthusiasm for the ‘job’ boils over and is very infectious, and the

same level of enthusiasm is present in the rest of the Cecil team. You also get the feel that the entire Cecil organisation want the best from their investment and will always strive to buy the best. As Paul explains that’s why he only buys Michelin tyres, Schmitz Cargobull, Gray & Adams and Krone trailers, as in his opinion they are the best on the market.

Hopefully the legacy is set to continue as both of Paul’s daughters, Maisie 10 and Ellie 11, spend a lot of time in the trucks and around the business and are already showing a very active interest in the day to day running of the company. In his own words and really summing things up, “To do good in anything in life you have to be passionate”.

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CAR FEATURE

R A E

L C

e al sd i s D me a J s: rd o W

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E H T

AC s: h p ra og t o Ph

rs Ca

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L ST

FA

I

t’s always been said that the UK and the USA share a ‘special relationship’ - a set of values and a common language that draws them together politically and culturally despite being separated by 3,000 miles of treacherous North Atlantic Ocean.

When it comes to cars, nowhere has this been demonstrated more effectively than in the Shelby Cobra. Blending British sportscar know-how with raw American power, this muscle-bound two-seat roadster went on to become one of the greatest racing machines of the Sixties.

The brainchild of US motor racing legend and 1959 Le Mans winner Carroll Shelby, the Cobra was backed

by Ford to take on arch-rival General Motors on the track. Former Texan chicken farmer Shelby had the neat idea of taking the light and delicate AC Ace, built in the firm’s factory in Thames Ditton, Surrey, and shoehorning in a heavyweight slice of Detroit iron in the form of the Blue Oval’s 4.7-litre V8. Simple.

It proved an instant hit when launched in 1962, overcoming an early reputation for wayward handling to rack up numerous wins, including the 1965 World

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CAR FEATURE

The Cobra lives on, with supercharged 6.2-litre, 580hp Chevrolet V8 under the bonnet

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CAR FEATURE Sportscar Championship, beating Ferrari in the process. Yet eventually its star was starting to wane, with more sophisticated challengers putting it in the shade, and in 1967 it was consigned to the history books. Well almost.

While Carroll Shelby held the rights to the cars bearing his name, the Cobra never really went away. Various company owners kept the car going, its success fluctuating over the years as fashions and finances waxed and waned. Yet AC’s future, and that of the Cobra, was finally secured in the late Nineties by South African entrepreneur Alan Lubinsky, who continued to produce the car in small numbers, carefully evolving it to meet regulations and customer demands.

Now, nearly six decades after the original made its debut, the Cobra has undergone its latest rejuvenation and it’s arguably better than ever. It’s certainly more powerful. The new MkIV Superblower packs an incredible 580bhp, although purists (and Shelby himself) might be shocked to discover that the supercharged 6.2-litre V8 doesn’t come from Ford, but is in fact the venerable LSA from former arch-rival Chevrolet.

That’s not all that’s changed. Gone is the all-aluminium exterior, replaced by a composite body that, like the rest of the car, is built in AC’s factory in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Not only is the £129,500 car lighter and less costly (an original would now cost you millions), it’s beautifully finished and covered in paint that’s deep and lustrous. Inside, the hand-stitched leather, beautiful three-spoke steering wheel and numerous Smiths instruments create a real sense of occasion.

Under the new bodywork is the familiar ladder frame chassis, off which hangs far more sophisticated suspension, with an independent multi-link arrangement at each corner. Power steering is standard, as is a bang-up-to-date Tremac six-speed manual gearbox.

Twist the tiny key in the ignition and the Cobra erupts into life with all the drama you’d expect, the side exit exhausts bellowing and crackling before settling down to a burbling idle. Move away and any worries about the car’s fearsome reputation soon evaporate.

“TWIST THE TINY KEY AND THE COBRA ERUPTS INTO LIFE WITH ALL THE DRAMA YOU’D EXPECT.” SUMMER 2021 DAF DRIVER

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CAR FEATURE The assisted steering is light and accurate, the clutch easy to use, the gearshift is precise and far easier to use than that awkward canted lever would have you believe, plus it rides the bumps smoothly.

wake. AC reckons 0-60mph takes around four seconds, based on our experience it’s probably faster - fast enough to make sure the grin on your face will be difficult to shift.

Push a bit harder and you’ll discover surprising grip and traction, the rear-wheel drive AC feeling agile and easy to place through a series of corners. It’s not quite as capable as modern roadster rivals, feeling a little soft when really pressing on, but use the traditional fast-in and slow-out approach and you can cover ground at an alarming rate.

Of course, in this day and age all that fossil-fuel burning fun is becoming a little less acceptable, which is why AC offers an electric version. Yes, really. Available in either classic narrow-bodied MkI guise or Cobra-matching MkIV, it can be specified with two battery options of 230kW or 460kW and depending on version has a range of 190 miles and can crack 0-60mph in an, ahem, electrifying 3.8 seconds.

Speaking of which, if the handling is a little old fashioned, the performance is anything but. The way the Cobra accelerates is intoxicating, responding instantly to the throttle as it rips down the road, that hollering NASCAR soundtrack trailing in its

So sixty years after making its debut the Cobra is still going strong and, more importantly, this Anglo-American (via South Africa) icon is continuing to forge a special relationship between car and driver.

Below: Now celebriating its 120th anniversary, AC Cars first built performance models in the 1920s.

Below right: No speed limits? No problem! the Cobra made headlines in the Swinging ‘60s just the same.

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CAR FEATURE

THAT INFAMOUS TEST DRIVE

As the driver joined the M1 heading south he watched his speed increase steadily to 80mph. There was no need to rush. It was a Saturday morning and the motorway was relatively quiet. In the distance were a group of three cars and a small truck.

His speed had now increased to a shade under 90mph when he noticed one of the vehicles was a police car. As he approached he pulled into the outside lane and slowly increased his speed to 100mph. Passing the group, he saw the road ahead was relatively empty so he pressed the accelerator to the floor and the car rocketed up to just over 120mph, a speed he felt was probably ‘fast enough’ for this public highway. The police car was now just a mere spec in the rear-view mirror.

Why no flashing lights and sirens? The simple answer is it was the early 60s and there was no speed limit! The car was the latest model of the famous AC Cobra produced at the company’s Surrey production facility in Thames Ditton, near Kingston upon Thames. The Cobra not only earned its racing pedigree taking part in such events as Le Mans, in a team managed by Stirling Moss, but it was rumoured to have been clocked doing 183mph testing in the middle of the night also on the M1. In 1965 the 70mph limit was introduced!

Described as probably one of the most desirable sports cars of its time it also earned a top award for having a truly remarkable TED. This was a term given to the car by a leading national newspaper motoring correspondent who went onto explain, “TED means Time Exposed to Danger – simply put – when overtaking another vehicle you can complete the manoeuvre in super quick time.”

But it is not just super fast sports cars for which AC is remembered. At a time when diversification was needed

to help the company survive they built golf trolleys and also won a contract to manufacture the electric trains which used to carry passengers along the Southend Pier. But their engineering expertise did not end there, At the opposite end of the automotive spectrum, AC also built a 500cc invalid car, a popular site on UK roads until 2003.

In a move to produce a true GT car, Derek Hurlock who managed the company for more than 50 years, wanted to produce one of the fastest cars on the road and this he achieved with the AC Frua, or AC428 as it became better known. With a recommended retail price of just under £6,000, less than 100 cars were produced. A language teacher and house master at Eton College picked the AC428 for his book, Clear the Fast Lane, a 1971 publication mixing terrorism, Middle East politics and a race against time from London to Saloniki.

In the 1980s the Thames Ditton factory closed and, with a change of ownership, a new home was found for AC in Glasgow.

There followed a chequered period in the company’s history with various efforts being made to keep the brand alive with new owners and joint ventures.

In 2010, AC announced a joint venture with the US-based Iconic which resulted in the design of the ultimate “Cobra”: the “Iconic AC Roadster”.

At the Geneva Motor Show in 2012, AC Cars showed three different models: the AC MK VI, AC MK II Classic, and AC 378 GT Zagato.

In 2020, AC Cars announced that they will be building a zeroemission version of the Cobra called the Series 1 Electric.

How we all wish we could turn the clocks back to 1964 when we pull onto a motorway!

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VIRTUAL TRUCK SHOW 2021

DAF TRUCKS VIRTUAL TRUCK SHOW #2 Over the May Bank Holiday weekend, the DAF Virtual Truck Show took place and saw more than 400 entries over the course of the weekend. The was the second online event in successive years following pandemic restrictions and the postponement of the traditional truck show season.

‘BEST SHOW TRUCK’

T

he winners and their respective companies earn themselves a DAF Driver magazine trophy and a professional photo-shoot to feature in the magazine. This time we feature Stephen Haws’ DAF 95 400.

XF 530 FTS – JL COX (CRANES) LTD. (DRIVER JASON COLES)

The Best Show Truck winner is an 80-tonne DAF XF 530 FTS in the colours of JL Cox (Cranes) Ltd., Driver, Jason Coles, ‘…was absolutely bowled-over when I got the call from DAF. The truck does a lot of specialist heavy work and it can get pretty filthy.

We spent quite a bit of money on making it look the part, so it deserves to be seen in all its glory. I take a lot of pride in looking after it.”

The ’Best Working Truck’ award went to the CF 330 FAN 6x2 sent in by Shaun Cato. This well-presented builders’ merchants’ truck with crane and drop side bodywork is part of the Travis Perkins fleet.

Jason Coles

‘BEST CLASSIC DAF OR LEYLAND TRUCK’

‘BEST WORKING TRUCK’

HJ HAWS HAULAGE - 1996 LEYLAND DAF 95 400 ATI SPACE CAB. (DRIVER (STEPHEN HAWS)

TRAVIS PERKINS – CF 330 FAN. (DRIVER SHAUN CATO)

Shaun Cato 18

DAF DRIVER SUMMER 2021

Stephen Haws

VIRTUAL TRUCK SHOW 2021

Alex Fellas

Adrian Winterton

Alan Buckley

Allen Coats

Ashley ‘titch’ Caton

Aaron Slaney

Ben Boo Latta

Bennie Raayman

Brendon Mutimer

Chris Gosling

Ashley Walker

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VIRTUAL TRUCK SHOW 2021

Russell Pfaff

Sean Thomas

Shaun Jones

Sparrow ChrisMorgan

Stephen Anderson

Stephen Dyer

Stephen Elwood

Stephen Jones

Stephen Reeves

Steve Allen

Steve Burrow

Steve Horgan

Steven Cochrane

Stu Moon

Stuart Wisbey

Sue Gaffer Epton

Thomas Anderson

Thomas Lockwood

Tim Williams

Toby Jones

Toine Sprenkels

Tom Hurst

Tom Morgan

Tony Broad

Tony Prior

Uel McCullough

Wayne Beswick

William Dooley

William Mayfield

William Miller DDM

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NEW GENERATION LAUNCH SPECIAL

ISSUE 25

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DAF DRIVER

New ge n a r DAF the hits d roa NEW XF • NEW XG • NEW XG + • FULL DETAILS INSIDE

THE NEW GENERATION

NEW GENERATION

The new benchmark in quality, efficiency, safety and luxury.

DAF is starting the future with an entirely new line up of trucks

Words: Jack Sunderland

P

Putting the driver first at all times, DAF’s all-new New Generation XF, XG and XG+ tractor units and rigids are bringing major benefits to the hard-pressed haulage industry.

From the driver’s viewpoint, they offer a level of comfort never before seen in DAFs. From the haulier’s viewpoint, the facilities they provide should make it far easier to recruit and retain drivers during a

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Photographs: Mark Ballantyne / DAF Trucks

period of acute shortage.

Take the amount of room that is available in the newly-created cab.

Outperforming all the competition, the flagship XG+ delivers an extraordinary 12.5cu m of interior cab space. That is as much space as is provided in the load area of a medium-size panel van, and an astonishing 14% more than the current XF Super Space Cab. Standing height is up to 2,220mm so even if you are well over 6ft

tall, you will still have plenty of headroom.

XG is almost as impressive, with a standing height of up to 2,105mm.

Nor need drivers of the New Generation XF feel they are losing out. It boasts a standing height of up to 2,075mm.

Finding a comfortable driving position having climbed up a mere three steps, should never

NEW GENERATION

Far left: New Generation XG+ New Generation

Centre: New Generation XG

Official launch

Right: New Generation XF

be a problem given how much adjustment there is in the seat and steering column. The wheel can be parked in a far-forward position for easier seat access.

12in display. The driver can select between two layout designs and four levels of information, and display settings can be personalised.

Swivelling driver and co-driver seats are listed as options on both the XG and XG+ to make it easier to relax after a demanding day’s driving.

An optional 10in touch-screen for the DAF Navigation and Infotainment System can be specified and can be linked to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

All vehicle-related information is shown on a centrally-mounted

Drivers deserve a good night’s sleep, and DAF is happy to oblige.

The bed is 2,220mm long in all models, and 800mm wide all the way down its length in the XG and XG+.

Once you are in your comfortable bed, you will discover that the new rear wall control panel allows you to operate all sorts of things without having to get up. They include the lighting, the sound system, the windows and the roof hatch.

You can adjust the temperature too.

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NEW GENERATION

“XG OFFERS A STANDING HEIGHT OF UP TO 2,105MM” The New Generation DAF XG truck showcases luxury and driver comfort 24

DAF DRIVER SUMMER 2021

NEW GENERATION

All three derivatives come with an automatic temperature control system as standard or a fully-automated climate control package as an option.

A new feature is a fully-integrated Park Airco, which cools or heats the cab interior automatically when the engine is switched off. It is marketed as an option on XG+.

you can hit a panic button which triggers the horn and hazard lights.

The lower bunk in the XG and XG+ are optionally adjustable - either mechanically or, with the DAF Relax bed, electrically, allowing the user to enjoy optimal head, back and leg support. The mattress can be specified with an optional topper.

The control panel also allows you to see what is going on around your truck by activating any cameras that have been specified. If you don’t like the look of what is happening then

A folding co-driver’s seat is available as an option, and it can also be specified with a folding headrest to create a bedside table. The ability to fold the seat creates more space,

Top: Seat and steering column adjustment significantly aid driver comfort.

Far left: Swivelling driver’s seat helps to make the most of the space in the XG cab when at rest.

Bottom right: Major controls are on or close to the steering wheel.

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NEW GENERATION

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NEW GENERATION and has the added benefit of giving the driver an unrestricted view through the nearside Vision Door with its Kerb View window.

Take a look under the bunk and you will find ample storage space, including either one or two drawers or one or two fridges in which 1.5-litre bottles can stand upright.

Outside storage lockers on both the nearside and offside are accessible through large openings.

Making extensive use of high-quality leather trim and materials that are soft to the touch, all three models offer a vast amount of storage in the roof consoles, on top of the dashboard and in the door pockets. The dashboard has two holders for cups, mugs and small bottles, and the retractable dashboard table is bigger than ever before.

The XG and XG+ go even further, with a drawer in the lower part

of the fascia in which documents or a laptop can be stored.

Did we mention lighting earlier?

Optionally on offer on the XG and XG+ is LED ambient cab interior lighting with 15 lights and light strips adjustable for brightness and colour.

They highlight the interior’s premium-level fit and finish and the quality of the materials used; standards more commonly associated with top-of-therange executive passenger cars.

The measures taken to enhance the cab reflect feedback DAF has received from drivers. In creating the new cab it has taken full advantage of changes to the European masses and dimension regulations; the first truck builder to do so.

What they have allowed the manufacturer to do is elongate the all-new, tapered cab at the front by 160mm, improving the truck’s aerodynamics and helping to cut fuel consumption

Vast external lockers provide adequate space for necessary equipment.

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NEW GENERATION

XG+ offers unrivalled cab space and a standing height of 2,220mm.

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DAF DRIVER SUMMER 2021

NEW GENERATION

and CO2 emissions by up to 10%.

A wide, deep 2.3sq m windscreen and an ultra-low belt line make it far easier for the driver to see vulnerable road users - and react accordingly.

With semi-flat floors, the XG and XG+ come with 330mm of extra length at the back of the cab, dramatically boosting the amount of internal space gifted to drivers for working, eating and sleeping.

All drivers want to feel they are at the wheel of a handsomelooking truck and the trio fit the bill, with a stylish and prominent front grille with chrome accents topped by a distinctive logo bar.

The good looks are highlighted at night by full LED headlights crowned with distinctive daytime running lights with integrated cornering lights. On the XG and XG+ they are complemented by standard LED Skylights, with a different design for each model.

Optional DAF Digital Vision System cameras can be specified to replace the main and wideangle mirrors, with the DAF Corner View camera able to replace the kerb and front-view mirrors. As a consequence the driver enjoys a far better field of vision, making vulnerable road users easier to spot.

The Corner View display is mounted on the co-driver’s A-pillar.

Additional Digital Vision features include what is known as auto panning. It allows the driver to keep tabs on what is happening to the rear of the trailer when cornering.

Even in winter the heated cameras provide a clear view. What is more, they are electrically-retractable; an industry first.

Many of the key changes to the trucks are unseen, including the many improvements made to the 10.8-litre PACCAR MX-11

Top: Adjustable air deflector aids fuel economy.

Middle/bottom: Swing-out side deflectors aid access to the rear of the cab.

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NEW GENERATION

Top: XG+ offers a new benchmark in cab space by taking advantage of new European cab weights and dimensions.

Top right: Flagship 530hp MX-13 motor gains useful torque boost.

Bottom right: LED headlamps, optional cameras in place of mirrors and Kerb View window all offer drivers improved all-round visibility.

and 12.9-litre PACCAR MX-13 engines. Among them are new injectors, a new cylinder head and block, new pistons and liners and a new generation of turbochargers.

With power outputs of up to 530hp, the changes have contributed to the sheer driveability of the vehicles. Much of it is due to useful increases in torque - the 530hp MX-13 now delivers 2,550Nm in every lower gear and a meaty 2,700Nm in top gear.

are the reduced levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

Both engines can run on environmentallyfriendly alternatives to mainstream diesel such as HVO; Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil. An extended service interval of up to 200,000km is available, and key technical updates can be carried out over the air.

City Turn Assist detects other road users or objects on the truck’s nearside, and should ensure they do not come to grief. Worth noting too is the presence of Predictive Cruise Control 3.

All three models come with a TraXon automated transmission as standard, with new features such as automatic drive-off gear selection.

The all-new chassis has resulted in significant improvements to handling. Worth noting too

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A comprehensive suite of safety devices can be relied on. The roll-call includes Brake Assist and Lane Departure Warning System plus the latest version of Advanced Emergency Braking System; AEBS-3. It can help prevent a collision with both stationary and moving vehicles at speeds of up to 80km/h.

Other systems that have been developed include DAF Electronic Park Brake, which engages the brakes automatically when the engine is switched off.

The Low Speed Trailer Brake activates the trailer brakes independently for safe trailer coupling and decoupling. Park Brake Assist

NEW GENERATION

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NEW GENERATION

The New Generation DAF XG+ truck is available with a series powerfull PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines

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engages all the brakes along with the parking brake, to ensure the truck does not move while an onboard loader crane is being operated or a tipper body raised and lowered.

When it comes to safety, DAF’s attitude has always been; ‘Hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.’ With this approach in mind, everything that is driving-related is operated from the new steering wheel and the steering column stalks, as are the digital display menu, the TraXon gearbox and the phone and audio systems.

NEW GENERATION Top left: PACCAR MX-11 Euro 6 2021 - Engine - top view Bottom left: PACCAR MX-11 Euro 6 2021 - Complete driveline Top right: PACCAR MX-13 Euro 6 2021 - Engine - top view Bottom right: PACCAR MX-13 Euro 6 2021 - Complete driveline

All the New Generation DAFs have been tested to the uttermost, with over 150 field test vehicles put into daily operation with customers all over Europe. By the time full production starts later this year, they will have covered the equivalent of 20 million kilometres between them, and stood up remarkably well to the unremitting punishment.

So no matter whether they are hauling pallets of tinned food from Manchester to London, or cases of Scotch from Edinburgh to Barcelona, there is one thing that can be guaranteed; they’ll be well on top of the job.

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NEW GENERATION

NEW GENERATION DAF FACTS AND FIGURES

XF cab vital statistics

XG cab vital statistics

XG+ cab vital statistics

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NEW GENERATION

Comprehensive drivelines The new DAF XF, XG and XG+ ranges are available with a wide variety of driveline and axle configurations including 4x2 and 6x2 options for rigid and tractor unit chassis. 6x2 models are available in a variety of combinations including pusher, tag and rear steering axles.

Your DAF Dealer will be happy to discuss your requirements and help guide you towards the configuration that will suit your operations best. https://www.daf.co.uk/en-gb will provide further information.

“OVER 150 FIELD TEST VEHICLES WILL HAVE COVERED THE EQUIVALENT OF 20M KM.” DDM

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DEALER PROFILE

FROM THE HUMBLE CORNER SHOP….

A Story of Customer Service and Family Values

Words: Phil Moon

O

ne hundred and fifty years ago, a general store was established in the town of Lydney in the Wye Valley by Elizabeth Watts.

Today John Thurston, Chairman of Watts of Lydney and fifth generation descendent of Elizabeth and David Watts, recounts how his forbears forged a family business that would play a key role in the evolution of motor vehicle engineering, from its beginnings in the late nineteenth century,

Photographs: Watts Truck & Van

right through to today.

Today the Watts Group of Lydney is a multifaceted business with divisions that include Watts Urethane and Plysolene - businesses which specialise in modern polymer technologies, an area of specialisation that the company can trace back to a half-century of industrial tyre production and tyre re-treading, and Althorpe Properties, which has a portfolio of industrial and retail premises that

reflects the influence the Watts family has had on the industrial landscape and economics in Lydney and further afield. At the heart of the Group is Watts Truck and Van which has three dealerships, located in Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, that are dedicated to taking care of DAF customers.

Alongside awards and recognition inside the DAF Dealer Network, Watts Truck & Van won the coveted Franchised Dealer of the Year award at the Commercial Motor SUMMER 2021 DAF DRIVER

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DEALER PROFILE Awards in 2020, in recognition of the outstanding levels of customer care and support they deliver.

Watts Family Heritage The Watts Group story began just over 150 years ago when David Lazarus Watts, a widowed carpenter, arrived in Lydney, Gloucestershire and married Elizabeth Stephens, a local girl. Together they set up a general store and bakery. Their middle child, Josiah Stephens Watts, was apprenticed to an ironmonger in Bristol where he met his future wife, Clara Esther Weaver. In 1880, at the age of 24, Josiah borrowed £300 from his uncle and purchased a small ironmongery shop back in his hometown of Lydney.

The Early Years Of Motoring In the early days of the internal combustion engine, no garages and few suitable workshops existed and, as a rural

ironmonger who also traded in cycles and motorcycles, the J. S. Watts Ironmongery shop and its workshed, would play an important role in the development of motor transport supporting those early motorists. In 1905 and 1907 respectively, Josiah and Clara’s sons, Arthur and John, joined the family business which would later become J.S. Watts and Son and be described as ‘Ironmongers and Motor Dealers’.

The business established a successful mail delivery service for the surrounding Forest of Dean area and by 1912, they held the agency to sell Ford motor cars in Chepstow and the Forest of Dean up to Westbury on Severn. After both serving in the First World War, John and Arthur resumed their business activities with a renewed vigour.

During 1919-1920, Watts built Lydney’s first purpose-built motor garage on the High Street and so, with its opening in 1920, Watts Garages Limited was born.

In 1920 Arthur travelled to Salonika in Greece, to Arras in France and to Cologne in Germany, where he purchased about 200 War Department surplus heavy vehicles. These were mainly Albions, along with some Leylands and some Peerless, together with mobile workshops and tons of spares. Over the coming years, they were converted or repaired in an aircraft hangar that had been dismantled on Salisbury Plane and re-erected in a field near Lydney. Most were sold around the country to a variety of operators including breweries, oil companies, dairies and general hauliers. Others were used as bus chassis for new services, started by John, linking the Forest of Dean and Gloucester.

Developments & Diversification Over the decades the Watts businesses have been many and varied. From the Watts boiler to the Watts Tyre & Rubber Company. John Watts was heavily

The first Watts garage in High Street, Lydney, built 1919-20

War Department surplus vehicles were sold to a variety of customers

Watts Boilers were produced and sold for many years.

Ex-army AEC Matator recovery vehicle

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DEALER PROFILE involved with passenger transport and he and Arthur, together with colleagues, established the United Transport Company Limited which was involved in goods transport here, and goods and passenger transport overseas.

The supply and re-treading of tyres became a major part of the business after World War II and led to the development of a separate industrial tyre business, which would be one of the largest in the world. Watts Industrial Tyres was sold in 2009 allowing the Group to concentrate on its other successful businesses, without the risks associated with complex international tyre markets.

Diesel In The Veins The company was heavily involved in the early development of the diesel engine and Arthur Watts was a keen proponent of the technology, recognising its efficiency advantages over petrol. In 1928 he fitted

some L2 Gardner marine diesel engines into ex-W.D. Leyland trucks, allowing for the greater torque and lower rpm by changing the solid tyres to pneumatics of larger diameter. As early as 1937 he put a diesel engine into his car, which he used successfully for about 12 years. Arthur’s innovations with diesel engines would eventually lead him to pass on the rights to his work to Albion Motors.

During the 1920s Watts were appointed as Albion distributors for South Wales, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Later they would become agents for Leyland, Scammell, ERF and Gardner diesel engines.

The association with Albion and Leyland has continued as the brands were absorbed and morphed, first into the Leyland Vehicles empire, then into Leyland DAF and finally into today’s DAF Dealership.

This must make Watts one of the longest established commercial vehicle dealers in the UK.

John Thurston is the current Chairman of the Watts Group of Companies and is the great-great-grandson of David and Elizabeth Watts. Reflecting on the company’s heritage and his family history that is so closely entwined, ‘I’ve always been aware that Watts is a family business and I later came to understand how family businesses have a different culture to many others.’ This is of course something that many family transport companies will recognise and appreciate.

‘It’s all about how we treat our people, our communities, our suppliers, our staff and our customers.’

‘To be chairman of a business founded by your forefathers over 150 years ago is a rare privilege. It was by their example, energy, vision, that foundations for the present and future were laid.’

It is certainly an interesting story of drive, innovation and customer service that continues to this day.

Simon Griffin (front right) receives DAF Dealer of the Year Award in 2019.

Watch John Thurston, Chairman of Watts of Lydney Group as he talks about the history of the company.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

WILCOX ACQUIRED Renowned bodybuilder changes hands but winning management team stays

2021

will be a landmark year for the Wilcox Group, the manufacturer of bulk rigid bodies and trailers and importer of mixer bodies. It’s just over 20 years since Vito Ronzano and Chris Bartlett ended several years of uncertainty for the company when it bought the name and company assets at the Wilcox Market Deeping site near Peterborough.

Ronzano and Bartlett were able to build on the Wilcox reputation for building quality products and the company has thrived and expanded since. Wilcox now employs 100 full-time staff. The company has established considerable expertise in building aluminium and steel bodywork for the aggregates, asphalt and construction markets and is also the sole UK agent for CIFA concrete mixers. CIFA was established in Italy almost a century ago and is now under Chinese ownership.

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Within recent weeks, Wilcox announced that it had been sold to the Total Vehicle Solutions (TVS) Group, based in nearby Wisbech. The acquisition of Wilcox is the first for the TVS Group since its formation in 2019 from SB Components, Priden Engineering and McPhee Mixers. Vito Ronzano and Chris Bartlett will continue to lead the company under its new ownership.

“The acquisition strengthens and adds to the Group’s market position in the UK and Europe, creating increased cross-selling opportunities and the ability to share facilities, broadening reach, resource and technical expertise”, Area Sales Manager, Jamie Boyce, told DAF Driver.

For DAF operators, Wilcox and its associated companies are an established part of the DAF Ready to Go ready-bodied truck range. The Ready to Tip tipper range, based on the DAF CF 450 8x4 construction chassis offers the option of Wilcox steel or aluminium tipper bodywork.

BUSINESS PROFILE

BY TVS GROUP Words: John Kendall

Photographs: Wilcox

Similarly, the Ready to Mix ready-bodied mixer range includes McPhee or CIFA mixer bodywork. As mentioned earlier, Wilcox is the sole UK agent for CIFA mixers. Now since the TVS acquisition, Wilcox is part of the same company that supplies McPhee mixers too. Ready to Mix and Ready to Tip bodies are both mounted on the same DAF CF 8x4 Construction chassis, powered by the PACCAR 450hp MX-11 10.8-litre in-line six-cylinder engine.

Tipper and mixer are both equipped with the TraXon 12-speed automated transmission.

Rear axles are identical too using the DAF SR1132T double-drive rear bogie, mounted on steel parabolic suspension. Specification includes air conditioning and truckphone. The Wilcox tipper body for Ready to Tip comes with painted finish and a sheeting system.

“Lead times on bodies and chassis are currently eight to 10 months”, says Boyce, “So a haulier in urgent need

of a vehicle can take advantage of the stock program.

DAF also offers some excellent deals with repair and maintenance to support the deals.”

Those long lead times are being experienced across the truck manufacturing sector, for a variety of reasons. One is the supply shortage of electronic components which is affecting every sector of motor manufacturing from cars to vans, trucks and buses.

“Last year saw a reduction in new orders of around 40 per cent due to Covid and Brexit. This year the order book is full, but now the effects of Covid are showing within the supply chain”, explains Boyce.

“Chassis manufacturers are struggling to get electrical components, which are produced in Asia where production is down due to Covid related issues. This has caused us weeks without chassis deliveries.

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WILCOX ACROSS NINE DECADES

BUSINESS PROFILE

Wilcox can trace its origins back to 1947, with the formation of E.M. Wilcox Ltd by Mrs Wilcox and her sons Ray and Geoff. The company was based at Acland Street, Peterborough, a site that was demolished to make way for the Queensgate Shopping Centre. The company moved to its current Market Deeping site in 1989.

“We are also struggling to get hauliers to bring the raw materials into the UK. This is partly due to the additional paperwork and costs generated by Brexit but also due to Covid restrictions in the UK and the possibility of not getting out of the UK if drivers have a positive test.”

The company changed hands for the first time in 1972 when it was acquired by the Hypromel Group. The company expanded in the 1980s, acquiring Seadyke, CMC Bodies, Bulkerpart, Dunspencer, Pneubulk and Teamport Trailers.

These are all issues that will take time to resolve, but the signs are good. The economy seems to be recovering more quickly than forecast, while the vaccination programme is having a positive impact on Covid-19 infections even though the Delta variant is currently causing problems.

The company changed hands again in 1989 and the period up to 2000 saw the company go into receivership on two occasions, before being purchased by Vito Ronzano and Chris Bartlett, who have successfully re-established the Wilcox name.

The company won a Design Council Award, given for the outstanding design of its foldin-side tipper body in 1978. It was the first all-welded aluminium alloy tipper body with fold-in-sides to be produced in the UK. Commercial Motor explained that, “The extension panels fold flat to the side before they in turn are folded to lie flat on the floor to convert the body from bulk to flat.

Wilcox is seeing a pattern among DAF Ready to Go customers regarding bodywork choices. “The most common bodies are mixers and steel tipper bodies”, reckons Boyce, “This is generally down to new contracts starting at short notice, where the first vehicles in are the muckaway bodies to remove muck and then the mixers to prepare the ground.”

The Wilcox range is extensive, including conventional and monocoque tipping bodies for rigid chassis and trailers including insulated and dropside bodywork, as well as bulk blower bodies. The company also produces walking floor trailers as an alternative to tipping bodies. Wilcox maintains an extensive stock of parts, either produced in-house or sourced from trusted suppliers.

“The body has found favour with farmers and hauliers who carry such loads as sugar beet, grain and seed potatoes, as well as a wide variety of palletised loads.”

A few years later Wilcox supplied the first walking floor body for a rigid chassis in the UK, fitted to a Foden eight-wheeler in 1985 for Howard Waste of Edmonton in north London.

Commercial Motor reported that, “The internal length of the body on Howard Waste’s Foden is 8.7m (28ft 6in), about 1.2m (4ft) more than would have been possible with a tipping mechanism. Capacity of the body is 52m3 (68 cu yd).”

DDM

Ceremony attended by family of Lee Rigby, Armed Forces Lead for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Chris Thomas, Chris Clarkson MP and Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham

SPECIAL NEWS FEATURE

TRUCK NAMING IN THE MEMORY OF FUSILIER LEE RIGBY

Veterans into Logistics names DAF truck in memory of Fusilier Lee Rigby

N

ot for profit HGV training organisation, Veterans into Logistics, has named its DAF CF85 training vehicle in memory of Fusilier Lee Rigby, in a moving tribute at Rochdale Cricket Club, Greater Manchester.

Guests at yesterday’s COVID-safe event included the family of Lee Rigby, Armed Forces Lead for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Chris Thomas, Member of Parliament for Heywood and Middleton, Chris Clarkson, and Mayor of Greater

DAF CF85 training vehicle named in honour of Fusilier Lee Rigby, killed in London in 2013

Manchester, Andy Burnham.

Veterans into Logistics was established last year with the aim of reducing unemployment amongst military veterans. The organisation, which is currently applying for charity status, provides much-needed skills, opportunities, and personal support to veterans struggling to cope with reintegration into civilian life.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with the team from Veterans into Logistics,” said MP for Heywood and Middleton, Chris Clarkson, “Our armed forces are especially close to my heart, so when Darren [Wright] got in touch about the work he and the team were doing to support service leavers into the logistics sector, I was keen to find out more.

“Right now,” he said, “the country is facing a serious shortage of qualified heavy-goods drivers and so the work that VIL is doing is especially important for our national recovery from coronavirus. Together I hope we can provide many more opportunities for our veterans in this critically important and highly rewarding sector.”

Darren Wright, Founder and Director of Veterans into Logistics, said,

“We’re honoured to have named our training vehicle in Lee’s memory and to welcome his mother Lyn Rigby and close family to the tribute on the anniversary of his funeral. Lee’s name,” he said, “will take pride of place on our DAF CF, which plays a key role in helping to provide a new career to the UK’s military veterans.”

In addition to one-to-one mentoring, the Veterans into Logistics team delivers the necessary training to allow ex-military personnel to gain their HGV driving licence. Lessons are delivered using the organisation’s dedicated DAF LF and CF trucks. Once qualified, the in-house recruitment team helps new drivers to find their first role within the transport and logistics industry.

Wright added, “So many service leavers who leave the armed forces without a trade or transferable skill struggle to find meaningful employment. Having employment is a major factor in a person’s mental health, as employment gives you structure, stability and financial security which is needed to get by in life.

“Our mission,” he said, “is to reduce unemployment within the veteran’s community and all our veterans to earn a sustainable living.”

DDM

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FINANCE FEATURE

WEATHERING THE STORM

An interview with Steve Barfoot, Managing Director PACCAR Financial Plc

B

anks and finance houses have an, often well-deserved, reputation for handing businesses an umbrella when the sun is shining, then taking it away when it starts to rain. That is not, never has been, and never will be the approach taken by PACCAR Financial says UK Managing Director, Steve Barfoot.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in Britain this year as DAF Trucks’ inhouse finance company, it funds one in three of the new trucks sold by the manufacturer’s dealers.

The flexible and supportive approach the firm takes to its clients was writ large last year at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We had a tsunami of requests for payment holidays between April and June and into early July,” Barfoot recalls. “Over 600 customers approached us for help and over 5,000

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contracts had to be rewritten.”

Most of the holidays were for three months, with a few operators asking for six months. All the requests were granted, and PACCAR Financial experienced zero business failures or contract losses says Barfoot.

There is no denying that PACCAR Financial faces stiff competition from banks and leasing companies, not to mention the willingness of some companies to pay cash for their vehicles. This ensures it prices its products competitively, but pricing is not the only weapon in its arsenal.

Its in-depth specialist knowledge of the road transport industry, and of DAFs in particular, gives it a major advantage over other sources of funding says Barfoot.

“All we do is fund DAFs, and we’ve done so for the past two decades,” he observes. “We don’t get involved in

funding machinery, buildings, cars or anything else, and we’ve never retreated from the truck market.”

Its understanding of the sector’s needs has prompted it to offer plans with monthly payments that vary in line with a client’s seasonal pattern of business; higher when the operator is busy, and lower during quieter times of the year. “A bank may not offer that facility,” he remarks.

“We can also bundle our plans together with DAF repair and maintenance agreements so that customers have just one regular payment going out of their bank account,” he says. “Other financial institutions aren’t able to do that.”

As things stand, the majority of PACCAR Financial’s clients are opting for HP deals, which mean the truck will be theirs once all the payments have been made. “They’re confident about owning the asset, and about their ability

FINANCE FEATURE

to get a piece of the disposal action if they need to sell it,” Barfoot comments.

“However we can also put together operating leases, and again that’s something not all institutions can offer.”

PACCAR Financial can offer contract purchase - in effect HP with low monthly instalments and a balloon payment at the end of the agreement - and finance leases too.

ordered, built and delivered, so there is more time to consider payment options. With the latter, the truck is already sitting on the dealer’s forecourt; and the prospective purchaser wants a decision on finance made quickly so it can be acquired and put to work as soon as possible.

This will involve getting to grips with the differences between the new and used markets so far as finance is concerned. “They’re completely different,” he remarks.

PACCAR Financial is already starting to get to grips with the challenges inherent in funding new electric trucks; DAF has developed battery-powered versions of LF and CF. “Residual values will need careful evaluation,” Barfoot says.

In the meantime diesels dominate, and PACCAR Financial’s success in the sector is a reflection of the strong partnership it has built up with all the company’s dealers since 2001. They include Chassis Cab, which operates four sites across East Anglia with over 170 employees.

With the former, it can take several months for the vehicle to be specified,

It won PACCAR Financial Europe’s International Dealer of the Year Award

“We fund around 15% of the used DAFs retailed through the dealer network and we could do with funding more,” he says.

in 2020, a year which saw 53% of the trucks it sold supplied subject to PACCAR agreements.

“It’s been especially beneficial to work with PACCAR Financial at a local level,” says Chassis Cab Managing Director, Robert Baxter. “Together we devised a fantastic solution, specifically for container hauliers based in and around the port of Felixstowe.

“They’re very focused on fixed monthly payments for their tractor units so we came up with a complete package to suit them - the Felixstowe Deal - based on credit lines for specific customers.

“It’s proved a huge success,” he adds.

“Our ambitious target for its first year in 2019 was to supply 50 trucks under this agreement; and we delivered 70.

“PACCAR Financial and ourselves are so well aligned,” he concludes. “We’ve got the same goal; to sell the right products at the right price for our customers.”

DDM

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MERCHANDISE

‘START THE (MINIATURE) FUTURE’ 3pm - Wednesday 9th June 2021

By Richard Warner

T

his is the date that DAF Trucks changed the look of road transport in the 21st century and the way everything we rely on is delivered!

This is the date that the New Generation DAF Truck range was launched.

The new New Generation DAF Merchandise range was launched shortly after the unveiling of the new truck range. Within the new range of merchandise are three new scale models. Supplied by renowned Dutch scale model manufacturers WSI. The XF, XG & XG+ have all been captured in detailed miniature.

Everything is there, from the embossed DAF logo on the rear wall of the cab, to the aero parts & chrome detailing around the window.

Look closely inside the cab and the monitors for the camera system and the ladder for the bunk can be seen. The attention to detail is extraordinary!

The colour – Tuscan Yellow matches the real-life version. XF

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models utilise the traditional door mirrors, the XG & XG+ wear the new DAF Direct Vision camera system.

All the models feature the same tri-axle trailer with alloy wheels.

They also all feature the same ‘headline’ banner ‘Start the Future’.

The new range is available in the smaller 1/87 or larger 1/50 scale.

DAF has been quick off the mark with this range of models. The eagerness to own a scaled down version of the real truck seems to be a popular one! It’s rare to see a scale model of a new truck launched at almost the same time as its real-life counterpart, as lots of collectors already have their New Generation DAF added to their collections.

The ‘Future has started’ and in scale model terms a great looking addition to any collection!

The brand new range of New Generation DAF scale models & Merchandise can be viewed by visiting www.dafshop.com. All items can be ordered now from your local DAF Trucks Dealer.

In association with

COMPETITION

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Your chance to win fantastic prizes every issue

HOW TO WIN: DAF Trucks have supplied a 1:50 scale model of the new XG+ with a tri-axle box trailer, for one lucky winner.

Simply spot and mark the four differences on the images above.

Once completed either cut out or photocopy and post to DAF Driver Magazine, 4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 3QQ Closing date: Friday 8th October 2021

FULL NAME ADDRESS

POST CODE

TELEPHONE

EMAIL Terms & Conditions: Not suitable for children under 14 years of age. The winner will be notified within 30 days of the closing date either by letter, telephone or email.

All entrants will be placed in a hat and selected at random by a third party. No money alternative will be offered. The winner’s name and county will be displayed in the next issue of DAF Driver magazine.

Winner from last issue: Neil Handly, Greater Manchester & D Holland, Leicestershire. Winner’s details to appear in the Autumn 2021 issue of DAF Driver magazine Special note: Would the winner from the Spring 2020 spot the difference competition, Thomas Fennelly of Co. Kildare please contact the magazine as we want to deliver your prize. See contact details above.

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CLASSIC FEATURE

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CLASSIC FEATURE

CLASSIC FANTASTIC To Stephen Haws, his 1996 Leyland DAF 95 400 is more than just a

trusty wagon with a 1.2 million kilometres on the clock. This DAF Virtual Truck Show category winner is a definite member of the family.

Words: Ronnie Hitchens Photographs: Karl Hopkinson

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CLASSIC FEATURE

S

ometimes less really is more. Speak to a group of enthusiasts, be it truck, car, or bike, and many will share an appreciation and respect for a stock-condition vehicle with no adornments, that’s been lovingly looked after; a snapshot in time, maintained as a reminder of days gone by. That’s not to say that Stephen Haws’ 1996 Leyland DAF 95 400 ATi Space Cab was lacking in any way at this year’s DAF Virtual Truck Show.

Quite the opposite, in fact. It was an appreciation of the attention to detail, shared not only by Stephen, but also by the judges themselves, who awarded ‘P567 ODX’ the prestigious title of ‘Best Classic DAF or Leyland Truck’.

Fresh off the back of his win, DAF Driver was keen to catch up with Stephen to learn more about his career in trucking, his award-winning truck and HJ Haws Haulage, the familyowned business that it served.

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Stephen Haws and his father Harry Haws

Life on the road “Anything to do with lorries I absolutely love,” chuckles Stephen. “I spent a few days away over the halfterm with the family and we came across a circus packing up to move on. They had the big American stuff, Peterbilts, Kenworths. I was straight over with the camera taking lots of piccies.”

Growing up amongst trucks from an early age, Stephen’s first job at 16 was with well-known local haulier, Jack Richards & Son, where he worked as a second man and trainee mechanic.

As soon as he gained his licence at 21, he moved across to join the family business.

“I learnt a lot with Jack Richards,” he said, “it meant that we could do some of the truck maintenance in-house once I’d joined HJ Haws.

My dad started the business as an owner-driver in the 1970s, and I came on-board in the early 90s. Our work was mixed, but most of the work

was focused in and around Norfolk, delivering fertiliser and supplies to the farmers across the county.

“We had a long history with the DAF brand. Dad bought his first DAF, a 2800, in 1984. That ran with him for seven years and was replaced only with a newer one in the early 90s which, once I’d joined, was passed over to be my truck. Another 2800 followed, as did a 3200 on an H-plate and subsequently our first 95 from a contact of his in Bury St. Edmunds.

He loved that first 95 and was hugely impressed with the way it performed.

So much so, he phoned up this same contact to buy another one when the opportunity arose. That was Christmas of 2002 and around the following Easter, the offer of a second 95 came up. That’s the truck that’s been with me ever since,” he said.

After running the 95 on front-line duties until 2010, the business needed a replacement. However, with work drying up and Stephen’s father close

“DAD BOUGHT HIS FIRST DAF 2800 IN 1984.”

to retirement, the tough decision was made to close the business.

“As we owned the trucks outright, I was keen to keep a tractor unit for myself to keep the business’s name alive. I have so many memories with HJ Haws and this truck in particular, and I couldn’t let it go completely.”

Winning Formula For Stephen, part of the appeal of the 95 is that, bar a couple of small additions throughout the course of its life, the vehicle has been largely kept to its original stock specification.

Other than a front bumper and grille respray, and some paint correction underneath that Stephen completed himself, the vehicle has been preserved in ‘as retired’ condition.

“It’s in remarkably good shape for both its age and the life it’s lead,” explains Stephen. “When we bought it back in 2003, it had already racked up 700,000km pulling containers out of Felixstowe. Under our ownership, it’s

done another 500,000km. Considering it’s had one clutch and is still on its original engine, 1.2 million kilometres later, you just can’t fault it.

The HJ Haws team utilised dealer, M & K Commercials of Norwich, before switching to Ford and Slater of Kings Lynn. Both delivered exceptional service to the haulier throughout its working life.

Exhausting!

“We found a set of vertical exhaust pipes at a potato farm in the next village. The farmer would invite the locals down to buy their spuds and whenever we went, we always admired the Scania he had in the yard, complete with vertical pipes.

On one occasion, we visited not long after he’d sold it on. Both dad and I couldn’t help but notice that, in the corner of the yard, were the exhausts.

We negotiated a deal to buy them from the farmer, sent them off to a fabricator in Wisbech to modify them

CLASSIC FEATURE

to fit, and I think they look great.

“It’s all about doing little things to keep it looking mint. Until we bought this truck, the HJ Haws livery was a blue body and white writing.

However, the condition of the paint was so good when we bought it, it seemed like a waste of money to change it. Luckily, as it was white, we were able to invert the livery.”

While the truck carries great sentimental value for Stephen as a preserved vehicle, it’s easy to forget that the Leyland DAF served the family business as a daily workhorse for seven years. DAF Driver was keen to understand how the truck stacks up against a modern vehicle.

“Surprisingly, the 95 incorporates many of the features we take for granted today. It has a nice big cab, synchromesh gearbox, power steering and air suspension. In that sense, it is more relatable to a modern truck’s driving experience than many older models. Those trucks have some

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CLASSIC FEATURE

“WE HAD A LONG HISTORY WITH THE DAF BRAND.”

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CLASSIC FEATURE

amazing new technology, but I’d rather spend the day in my 95. In fact, I prefer the driving experience to most cars.”

Star of the Show For the past decade, the 95 has been used by Stephen and his family as a showpiece, touring the UK’s truck events throughout the year when weekends allow.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, they’ve still found a way to enjoy the truck, taking it for trips around the nearby North Norfolk coast and meeting up with fellow classic truck drivers when restrictions allowed.

“Before the pandemic hit, we used to go to three or four shows a year,” said Stephen. “My kids enjoyed going out in it as they were growing up, and they still come out with me from time to time. It’s of an age where it doesn’t require seatbelts, but we retrofitted harnesses in the cab, so it was safe for the kids. The twins aren’t as mad on lorries as I am and I’m not sure whether they’ll want to follow in my footsteps.

Getting your HGV licence isn’t cheap, and we may not be able to run the business by the time I stop driving.

“The photo we submitted to the DAF Virtual Truck Show was taken while my son and I had parked up for dinner in Hunstanton. There aren’t too many places to park it, but there are a few places you can get into. Quite often people will come up to you, keen to find out more. People will say ‘I used to drive one of those’. The classic truck community is really nice;

everyone likes to share their personal memories. We used to work around here, so sometimes we get a flash of the lights or a thumbs-up from other drivers who remember the truck.

“I’ve considered getting a DAF 2800 and painting it in our colours, but it’s not the same. It wouldn’t be our 2800, so wouldn’t carry the same sentimental value.”

Standing out Scooping the prize for ‘Best Classic DAF or Leyland Truck’ came as a shock to the 95’s proud custodian, who at first didn’t believe the news when it came through.

“I’d built up a relationship with some of the local DAF team in Norfolk and we’ve taken part in DAF displays in the past. The news of the win came through on my social media and I had to check it with my contacts. I thought someone was winding me up, but they said that we had won. I was chuffed! We don’t tend to enter competitions with the truck because we don’t have the resource to do it up to concours spec. To get this recognition though is great.”

“My dad was delighted too. He is still into the lorries but let his licence go as he couldn’t justify the cost to keep it. He said to me, ‘You should change the initials on the truck to yours, now it’s your truck’. But I said ‘No, it’s your business and that’s who I drove for – I want it to stay like that – in true, original condition’.

“While I’m still able to drive it, I’ll be driving it. And as soon as the shows are back, we’ll be there.”

DDM

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SIMPSON SAYS

OUT TO LAUNCH Richard Simpson’s reflections on the launch of the New Generation DAF

By Richard Simpson, industry pundit

T

hese are strange times indeed.

The reveal of the New Generation DAF was undisputedly the most significant truck launch so far of the 21st Century, and no one was invited. That’s a sad reflection of the way that the Covid crisis has put so much of life on hold both here and abroad.

But watching the launch remotely gave me perhaps more time to reflect than I would have had if I had attended a ‘normal’ international launch. For a start, I didn’t need to worry about getting to the ‘all you can eat’ buffet before the Russians: fail to do that and you will go hungry for the rest of the day. And also, being just alone with the computer screen and my thoughts, I found myself thinking a bit more than normal not about the launch or the product, but rather its significance.

The new trucks are the first to take advantage of reforms to European weights and dimensions legislation that came in last year. Other manufacturers have launched ‘new’ products which could have taken advantage of these, but did not. As a

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result, those trucks now look distinctly, well, 20th Century, if you know what I mean.

The new DAFs are the first of a generation of trucks that look more like they are of the future, than the past.

Their introduction also marked something of a personal landmark for me.

The first road transport magazine that I ever worked on had the first DAF 95 truck to be delivered to a UK owner-driver on the cover of ‘my’ first issue, and that was in 1988!

The 95, of course, went through all kinds of different iterations: first the Super Space Cab, then the XF, and then the various generations of the XF105. All the while, whenever they were asked why they were sticking with the same basic design of cab shell, DAF’s designers and engineers always explained that the existing cab fitted the dimensional ‘box’ they were legally allowed very tightly, so any new design would either be smaller, or pretty much the same as the original.

All that has changed now, and the new DAFs really are the shape of things to come.

But, reassuringly, and in the Dutch manufacturer’s best traditions, there is no change for the sake of change, no

‘experimental’ technology and no expectation that the operators of first generation vehicles will also be the final (unpaid) tranche of development engineers.

There’s a redesigned cab, and a new chassis that takes advantage of decades of improvement in material and production engineering, but the improved drivelines don’t contain anything that might take a decent truck technician out of his comfort zone. When it comes to turning the wheels, it’s

evolution, not revolution.

And quite right too. Because of all the complex challenges that face the industry at the moment, the most pressing across Europe is the fight to attract, recruit and retain competent drivers. The comfort, space, and ambience of the new generation of extra-spacious DAF cabs is just the ticket for the operator in dealing with today’s recruitment crisis.

And, without drivers, trucks are useless.

DDM

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To find your nearest dealer visit www.dafdealernetwork.co.uk/ locate-your-nearest-dealer/

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TRAINER’S NOTES

Police forces across the country have been using unmarked trucks as part of Operation Tramline

MEET MANDY

Mandy Wannerton is the DAF Press & Demonstration Driver

RUNNING ON EMPTY

O

peration Tramline, and the work done

by Highways England and the Police to identify driving offences from the cab of an unmarked HGV, makes interesting reading. More than 21,000 offences have been spotted since its launch in 2015, including over 6,000 cases of using a hand-held mobile phone, over 6,000 instances of not wearing a seatbelt, 1,500 of not being in proper control of the vehicle and almost 1,200 for speeding.

Among the incidents witnessed during Operation Tramline, was a driver steering a lorry with his knees while eating lunch on his lap and also using his phone. Officers saw a driver eating lasagne with a knife and fork while driving along a motorway.

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Surrey Police spotted a HGV driver boiling a kettle on the dashboard and another eating pickled gherkins from a jar with his elbows on the steering wheel.

One driver was caught twice in one day – in the morning and afternoon - using their mobile phone while driving along the A38 in Derbyshire.

When we think of things that can cause distractions while driving, we think of things like the mobile phone but what about the impact of something as simple as not giving our brain the TLC it deserves?

You don’t need to be a scientist to know that what we eat and drink can have a huge impact on brain function. The human brain may only take up to 2% of our body weight but it uses a mahoosive 20% of our energy which is more than any other organ in our body.

Our bodies are made up of 60% water and recent studies* have shown that even if we are just 1% dehydrated, it negatively affects our cognitive performance brain fug when behind the wheel can have devastating consequences. The thing is we often mistake thirst for hunger; instead of reaching for a drink we grab whatever we can. I don’t know about you, but the high sugar drinks and snacks seem to win out more than the more nutritious options every time, and too many of these zap energy levels further and induce drowsiness. Sleep studies have shown time and time again that not getting enough sleep impacts on mood and concentration and in worstcase scenarios, is akin to driving under the influence of alcohol.

Yeah, concentration thieves come in many guises and are just waiting to turn that good day to bad. We have no say in what’s going on outside the cab, but there are a couple of simple things we can do when inside the cab to help us have a safe and relatively stressfree day. Firstly, get familiar and confident in using the truck’s features. Not only does this give an easier time behind the wheel, it will give the best chance of successfully dealing with ever-changing road and traffic conditions.

Secondly, take better care of ourselves and check our brain gauge more often, before turning that key. After all, we wouldn’t take a truck out that was running in the red would we?

Safe and well now.

Mandy x

*Source: British Nutrition Foundation

MEET THE TRAINERS

MEET STUART KEY DAF now has Dealer Driver Trainers based across the country to help hand over new and used vehicles and we thought it would be good to get to know some of them a little bit better! In this edition we talk to Stuart Key the DAF Dealer Driver Trainer for Motus Commercials in Hull.

Q: When did you first join Motus Commercials and what was your first job there?

A: I joined what was then Imperial Commercials in April 2016 as a driver to be trained in the new role as Vehicle Handover Specialist and Dealer Driver Trainer.

Q: What did you want to be when you were at school?

A: While at school I always aspired to be a pilot in the Fleet Air Arm but didn’t go on to do the necessary A-levels. I decided instead to join the RAF but, at sixteen, I had to go in as an apprentice. On taking my medical I discovered I was colour blind which excluded me from the technical trades and so I was offered the alternative trades of cook, clerk or supplier. I chose cook, and after the one-year apprenticeship went on to complete 24 years in the RAF. Q: When did you take your HGV licence?

A: I passed my HGV class 3 in 1990, my class 2 later that year and went on to get my C+E in 1996.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role?

A: I enjoy the whole process, from accepting the new trucks when they are delivered into the dealership from the factory, through the various stages to predelivery inspection right through to delivery to the customer, hand over and driver training.

Q: Do you have a top tip for a driver getting his new DAF? A: Over the years as I have delivered many trucks, I have witnessed various levels of enthusiasm from the drivers who receive them. Most are receptive and appreciate the training we provide. I think it is important to stress to drivers that I am not there to

teach them how to drive. Instead I am there to show them how to use the various controls to get the best out of the truck. I have had one experience when all I received was animosity. But then you do get great feedback; as I did from one tanker driver who had been averaging miles per gallon in the low nines, who then improved to the high tens and low elevens.

Q: What car do you currently drive and, if money was no object, what would you have?

A: I currently drive a one-year-old Dacia Sandero. I’m not materialistic, so if money were no object, I would like a Ford Focus.

Q: What other responsibilities do you have at Motus Commercials DAF? A: I receive and sign for the new trucks, deliver them to, and collect them from, the paint shop and signwriters, deliver them to the customer and hand them over. I also do the driver training, so it’s the complete service from start to finish! I only work three days per week and I’m proud of the fact that in 2018 I completed 118 handovers!

Q: If you weren’t doing this, what would your ideal job be?

A: Having trained in the RAF as a chef and doing it for 24 years, once I left, I joined the Territorial Army and carried on in the same trade. I did this for another 17 years, so you’d think my answer would be, ‘Chef’.

But, no. During my career I also did a number of day-release courses and one of these was a City & Guilds in breadmaking and confectionery. So, if I had an alternative ideal job, it would be in a small bakery baking bread.

Stuart is married to his third wife Gillian.

He has five children, four boys and one girl. Two of the boys and his girl are from his first marriage and the other two boys are from his second.

All are grown up now and are spread far and wide with three in London one in the Norfolk Broads, and one who married an Australian and emigrated there to be near their family.

Stuart is proud of the fact that he did 41 years in the military, doing ten operational tours including in Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Northern Ireland completing his career with thirteen medals.

Stuart works for Motus Commercials three days-a-week.

He used to be a keen scooterist having had Lambrettas most of his adult life, but now he has a more sedate hobby, collecting coins for his grandchildren.

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NEW BUSIMESS

Simon Griffin, Dealer Principal at Watts Truck & Van, with Andrew Padmore, Chief Executive at Egnida, and Geoff Tomlinson, Managing Director at FSEW

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NEW BUSINESS

CHARGING AHEAD FSEW orders UK’s first electric tractor units from DAF Trucks Words: Ronnie Hitchens Photographs: DAF Trucks

D

AF Trucks has received an order for two new DAF CF Electric tractor units from Cardiff-based international freight forwarders, Freight Systems Express Wales (FSEW). It is the UK’s first order for battery electric heavy tractor units, as well as a first order for DAF Trucks and its new zeroemissions product offering.

The order was rubberstamped last week at the ITT Hub exhibition and conference in Farnborough, where

right-hand-drive, UK-ready DAF CF Electric and LF Electric trucks both made their public debuts. Both models are now available to order in the UK, with models including a CF Electric 37.0-tonne GCW tractor-unit and a 27-tonne GVW 6x2 rigid, alongside an LF Electric at 19.0-tonnes GVW. FSEW’s new DAF CF Electric represents the company’s first major step towards its objective of switching to a fleet-wide zero-emissions transport operation. In collaboration

with decarbonisation specialists, Egnida and DAF Trucks’ own electric vehicle experts, the partnership embarked upon a month-long, end-to-end appraisal of all aspects of FSEW’s business, encompassing detailed journey analysis and comparison of potential vehicle and charging options, including ongoing support capability.

The results were used by Egnida to create a profitable low-carbon business model for FSEW to extract

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maximum benefits from the DAF CF Electric and provide a zero-emissions service demanded by FSEW’s own customers. Driven by their appetite for decarbonisation, the two DAF CF Electric trucks now on order form part of an ambitious plan for FSEW to replace more than 40 diesel vehicles with low-carbon alternatives. Once the two CF Electrics are bedded-in, FSEW’s says it will introduce a further ten vehicles to reduce its carbon emissions by more than 50% in the next nine months. The company says its longerterm aim will be to hit ‘net-zero’ in two-and-a-half years.

“It’s a change of mindset,” said FSEW Managing Director, Geoff Tomlinson, “it’s a journey which began two-anda-half years ago and one in which the whole business is engaged. If these trucks perform as they should – and we’re fully confident of that following the painstaking evaluation programme – then we’ll be in for another ten DAF CFs. “DAF Trucks,” he said, “and the local dealer in Cardiff, Watts Truck & Van, have been very receptive to our requirements. Their can-do attitude has helped enormously in our journey here today and we’re very much looking forward to strengthening the relationship.

“As a business owner involved in road transport, and as a father of two small children, I have a huge opportunity, and an obligation, to make a positive impact on our environment and I’m enormously excited at the prospect of leading the switch to zero-emissions transport.”

Extensive CF Electric Operational Experience The CF Electric is new to the UK market but has been extensively tested in operation with a number of European transport operations over the last three years in both tractor and rigid configurations.

PACCAR battery-charging solutions DAF Trucks has also brought to market a full range of fixed and mobile battery-charging solutions to support its new LF Electric and CF Electric trucks. The range of PACCAR batterychargers may also be used with other

NEW BUSINESS

DAF CF ELECTRIC DAF CF Electric | ‘FT’ tractor 37-tonnes GCW Chassis: 4x2 Wheelbase: 3.8m Weight tractor: 9,000kg Electric motor: 210kW Torque: 2,000 Nm Battery capacity: 350kWh (315kWh effective) Range fully charged vehicle: up to 220km Quick charge batteries: 75-minutes (at 250kW) Full details of DAF Trucks’ electric product range and solutions can be found here: https://www.daf.co.uk/en-gb/trucks/ alternative-fuels-and-drivelines/battery-electric-vehicles

FSEW plans to cut CO2 emissions by 50% shortterm, with further ten vehicles earmarked

electric commercial vehicles, including vans.

The complete range of electric vehicle charging stations is backed by a two-year warranty.

Fixed charging stations are available with power levels ranging from 20kW up to 360kW. To provide maximum flexibility, a range of mobile battery-chargers are offered with power levels from 24kW up to 40kW. Charging capability of between 20kW to 50kW can support the daily operations of an individual truck charged during the evening or overnight.

Where fast-charging is critical, 120kW and 180kW PACCAR battery-chargers are an ideal solution for fleets operating electric vehicles on multiple routes or across multiple shifts. The 180kW PACCAR unit delivers power to charge most truck types in under three hours. The top-rated 350 kW PACCAR charger is an ultra-fast solution that can charge

vehicles at full power in less than two hours or can be deployed to fast charge two vehicles simultaneously.

PACCAR mobile battery-chargers are ideal for roadside assistance or in workshops where maximum flexibility is needed in the charging infrastructure.

‘Pre-sales’ and Aftersales commitment For operators considering the acquisition of DAF LF Electric and CF Electric vehicles, DAF Trucks offers its own dedicated ‘pre-sales’ programme to ensure customers select the right truck and charging solution to maximise the benefits of electrification, including site assessments, energy modelling, route simulation, and practical guidance on charging infrastructure, ‘smart’ and efficient battery recharging. The aftersales commitment also covers maintenance of the PACCAR battery-charging equipment.

DDM

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PACCAR Financial Tailored financial solutions As DAF’s in-house finance provider, PACCAR Financial has over 50 years’ experience offering financial services specifically for the transport sector. Naturally for the financing of your trucks, but also for complete combinations.

With various financing possibilities, including repair & maintenance contracts. PACCAR Financial always offers a solution tailored to your individual requirements.

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