A New Generation DAF XF has joined the fleet of one of the largest fleet operators in the UK.
The truck will join Turners (Soham) as part of DAF’s pre-production field test programme.
Turners currently has 1,200 vehicles on its fleet, including 750 DAFs.
Therefore, the New Generation DAF XF 450 FTG 6×2 will be in good company.
In addition, the company will soon be the largest user of DAF FTPs when it takes delivery of its 1,000th model.
Testing of the New Generation DAF XF is now in its final phases.
The evaluation has included more than 50 field trials.
Meanwhile, 100 pre-production trucks have been placed with European operators.
As a result, they will have covered the equivalent of 20 million test kilometres.
Turners’ New Generation DAF XF is powered by the 10.8-litre PACCAR MX-11 rated at 450hp.
The truck features a number of technologies to benefit driver comfort and safety.
For example, it has the DAF Digital Vision System and passenger-side kerb view window.
In addition it boasts a foldable passenger seat, helping achieve a 3-Star Direct Vision Standard rating.
Executive director, product development, DAF Trucks, Ron Borsboom, explained the evaluation process.
“Tests were performed at DAF’s own Technical Centre and in the labs, but also out on the road with customers.
Furthermore, Borsboom confirmed that testing standards were the same as those used for premium passenger cars.
Concluding, he stated: “We really have pushed the boundaries in every regard.”
Meanwhile, Tim King, group fleet engineer at Turners, was delighted to welcome the new truck.
“Our knowledge of the DAF 6×2 is, I would argue, more complete than any other operator in Europe.”
The New Generation DAF is being used on Turners’ chilled distribution operations.
In addition, it will be driven by long-standing Turners driver Cliffe Gwilliam.
