After putting several truck brands to the test under its own operating conditions, Faith Transport has invested in seven new DAF XF 530 trucks from Babcock, bringing its DAF fleet to eight. The decision follows the performance of its first DAF, which has covered 320,000 kilometres without a breakdown.
Based in Reitz in the Free State, Faith Transport specialises in fuel tanker loads, tautliner loads and refrigerated goods. The company has experienced significant growth over the past nine years, largely driven by the agricultural sector, where reliability and on-time deliveries are critical.
With plans to expand its fleet, the company decided to evaluate several truck brands under its own operating conditions rather than rely solely on manufacturers' specifications.
“We made the decision three years ago to bring in a few brands in our fleet. That way, we can experience everything ourselves, write it down, and consider with which one we're going to expand our fleet,” explains Angelica Jooste, Director of Faith Transport. “After doing this experiment, we determined ultimately that the DAF truck was the best in our fleet by fuel consumption, maintenance, and downtime.”
320,000 kilometres without a breakdown
Faith Transport introduced its first DAF XF 530 Power Plus in 2025. By the time of this article, the vehicle had accumulated 320,000 kilometres without a breakdown. With its trucks travelling the same routes across Southern Africa, the company has been able to compare their performance under similar operating conditions.
“All our trucks are travelling the same route across Southern Africa and the DAF has come out on top when it comes to fuel efficiency and operating cost,” says Angelica.
Based on its experience to date, Faith Transport expects the DAF to deliver the lowest total cost of ownership in its fleet. For a business transporting fresh produce, these results have particular significance. Vehicle downtime can disrupt delivery schedules and affect the company's ability to meet its commitments to customers. The DAF's performance has given Faith Transport the confidence to expand its fleet with seven additional XF 530 trucks, delivered in August 2026.
A relationship built on performance and support
Vehicle performance was only one part of Faith Transport's decision. The company also needed a supplier that understood its operations and could provide dependable support as its fleet expanded.
“Babcock was the first to respond to our request for demos. From there, the relationship just grew,” says Angelica.
What began with a demonstration vehicle has developed into an ongoing relationship between Faith Transport and Babcock's sales and aftersales teams. Brian Biyela, Sales Representative at Babcock, recalls the company's initial discussions with Faith Transport. “From our first discussions, it was clear that Faith Transport was looking for a truck that could prove itself in their day-to-day operations. We started with a demonstration vehicle and let the performance speak for itself. Seeing them return to invest in seven more DAF trucks is extremely rewarding. We're proud to be part of their growth and look forward to continuing to support their business.”
Access to aftersales support is particularly important for transport operators covering long distances. Babcock's extensive DAF dealer and service network, with strategically located service centres along South Africa's major transport routes, provides access to qualified technicians, genuine DAF parts and 24-hour roadside assistance. For Faith Transport, this support helps minimise downtime and provides reassurance as the company continues to expand its operations across Southern Africa.
Looking after the people behind the wheel
While fuel efficiency and reliability are important to fleet profitability, the experience of the drivers is another consideration. “Driver comfort and safety are two of the biggest considerations for us. The DAF is one of the most comfortable trucks our drivers have driven, and it’s reliable too,” says Daniel Jooste, Director of Faith Transport. The spacious cab and comfortable driving environment have received positive feedback from the company's drivers, who spend considerable time on the road.
Seven new trucks signal confidence in DAF
The addition of seven new DAF XF 530 trucks represents a significant investment in Faith Transport's future and reflects the company's confidence in the performance of its first DAF and the support it has received from Babcock. “In our fleet DAF is one of the most reliable trucks with the minimum breakdowns and the service team from the Babcock side is great and that was the reason for us to buy seven new DAF trucks,” says Daniel.
For Faith Transport, fleet expansion is not simply about increasing vehicle numbers. Maintaining service quality and meeting customer commitments remain central to its growth strategy. “As Faith Transport we see quality more important than quantity so that's the reason for having Babcock and DAF in our fleet to reach that goal,” Daniel adds.
Marius Barnard, Managing Director of Babcock's Transport Solutions business, says the investment demonstrates the value of building long-term customer relationships based on proven performance. “Faith Transport’s decision to expand its DAF fleet is particularly meaningful because it is based on the trucks’ performance in their own operations. Our focus is on understanding our customers’ businesses and providing the vehicles, technical expertise and aftersales support they need to keep moving. We look forward to supporting Faith Transport as they continue to grow.”
