Heeps heaps praise on New DAF XF
In just four months since receiving their global launch at the CV Show in Birmingham, DAF Trucks’ New CF and XF models being handed over to UK customers in ever-increasing numbers. The UK market leader’s order book has now topped 1450 units, as deliveries to UK operators start to ramp-up.
DAF Trucks has also announced details of its New LF lightweight range – including a new PACCAR 3.8-litre engine – thus completing the product line-up in 2017.
One of the first recipients of the New XF product was DAF operator Derek Heeps Ltd.in Bo’ness, West Lothian. The scrap metal transport specialist has taken delivery of a new, top-rated XF 530 FTG with Super Space Cab. The 6x2 mid-lift tractor unit comes with a three-year DAF MultiSupport R&M contract through DAF Dealer Imperial Commercials in Cumbernauld. Heeps was also the UK’s first recipient of a Euro-6 DAF XF in 2013.
“We really like the DAF product,” said Derek Heeps, “and this latest XF looks to be an improvement on an already excellent truck. We keep buying DAFs because they’re a good, solid, reliable vehicle – we have over 20 in the fleet now.”
Also announced recently, 35 new DAF demonstrators are now in the hands of the DAF Dealer network and are being trialled by operators. The demonstrators are part of a much larger European fleet of over 200 new CF and XF demonstrators, painted in metallic Jamaica Blue and sporting their distinctive demonstrator livery, manufactured at DAF’s two European production plants in Eindhoven and Leyland.
The new DAF model line-up arrives in the UK as DAF Trucks further strengthens its position in the UK truck market above 6.0-tonnes GVW. Latest market share figures confirm DAF Trucks’ dominant 33% share – more than twice that of its nearest competitor – meaning one-in-three new trucks in the UK is a DAF.
The New-model DAF CF and XF rigid and tractor line-up boasts up to 7% lower fuel consumption thanks to innovations and higher ratings to the PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines, a new ZF TraXon gearbox, new high-efficiency rear axles with faster gear ratios, advanced powertrain software and new cab aerodynamic aids.
Further new developments include an enhanced MX Engine Brake and a new compact Exhaust After-treatment System (EAS) – all combining to reduce kerb-weight by a significant 130kg on the FTG 6x2 tractor model. The EAS is 40% smaller allowing extra chassis space to accommodate ancillary blowing and or tipping equipment. Maximum service intervals are also increased to 200,000km.
For the driver, new trim, a new dashboard layout and new temperature / climate controls further enhance already high levels of comfort, while an Exclusive Line specification provides the ultimate in luxury.