Dashing for DAFs

The latest DAF CF and XF trucks proving to be a hit in SA

The latest DAF XF and DAF CF trucks hit the South African highways this year to much fanfare from the transport sector in anticipation of even better fuel efficiency for which DAF Trucks are renowned. The new trucks have proved to be so popular that the initial stock has already sold out, with new stock DAF trucks expected to arrive in South Africa by mid July 2021.

Distributed by Babcock, the sleek new XF and CF DAF trucks represent pure excellence in transport efficiency, setting new benchmarks in fuel economy as well as improved productivity and profitability. Among the highlights of the new trucks compared to its predecessors are improved chassis, cabs and gearboxes. Central to the new trucks’ transport efficiency is a multi-torque PACCAR MX-13 engine offering more torque at lower revolutions per minute (rpm) for higher fuel efficiency, lower noise levels and reduced CO₂ emissions.

The trucks are optimised for Africa’s geological conditions, and driver training is offered as part of the handover process, with courses available through Babcock to help drivers reduce fuel consumption, anticipate hazards better and increase road safety.

Babcock has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers who were first in line to get their hands on the new trucks. David Street, MD of Fairfield Longhaul, says that DAF’s excellent reliability and fuel efficiency, as well as Fairfield’s exceptional relationship with the Babcock sales and after-sales support teams, are some of the motivating factors for its continued support of the DAF brand. Fairfield Longhaul has been steadily increasing its fleet of DAF Trucks over the last six years to transport a range of perishable products to destinations across South Africa, and was first in line for the new trucks.

Hot on Fairfield’s heels was a leading logistic group operating in the tipper, tautliner and tanker transport sectors, who collectively placed an order for 100 new DAF XF 480 trucks. When you’re running truck fleets in the hundreds, optimal fuel consumption, low maintenance costs and minimum breakdowns are the all-important criteria that logistics operators look for in a truck. Bertus Kritzinger, Director of the logistics group, said the brand-new DAF XF trucks ticked all these boxes and then some.

The new DAF Trucks are available in a range of models including the DAF XF 480 FTT Premium Plus, which is ideal for transporting hazardous chemicals, owing to the safety features offered by the latest technology. When Skye Logistics, an up-and-coming fuel distributor was in the market for new trucks, the company sought out a vehicle that scored high in terms of safety. The DAF XF 480 FTT Premium Plus trucks fit the bill thanks to the liquid transport software that is applicable to all tanker transport applications, in particular for tanks without partitions or partly filled tanks. MD of Skye Logistics, Craig Moralee, says that the company is also expecting significant savings from the new trucks when compared to the previous model.

As part of an expansion process, the Simaz Group, providing road transport and logistics solutions to mines, power stations and processing plants, purchased five new DAF XF Trucks for hauling of coal. Part of its growth strategy was to empower previously disadvantaged females in the mining industry, and the Group has employed female drivers to steer the new DAF trucks. CEO Wiseman Sitole says that Simaz Group partnered with Babcock and DAF Trucks based on experiences shared with them by some of their clients who are familiar with and support the DAF brand.

To help customers keep running costs as low as possible, Babcock offers a total transport solution that comprises predictive forecasting, fleet management and flexible finance options for the new range of DAF XF and CF trucks. From tailor-made financing packages to fleet management and maintenance contracts, the comprehensive transport solutions model utilises predictive forecasting for cash flow preservation to assist DAF customers in getting the best value from their assets.