Schnug Logistic Group in Solingen

Transport company Schnug Logistic from Solingen, Germany,  recently put seven DAF XG 480 tractors into service. The company uses them to transport chemical products throughout Germany. Besides the tremendous comfort for the driver, the DAFs stand out in the fleet for their low fuel consumption, high reliability, and safe, predictable road handling.

In the book “Children’s and Household Tales” by the Brothers Grimm, the brave little tailor kills seven flies in one blow, leading him into a series of heroic adventures. Schnug’s management didn’t need that much courage or cunning to acquire seven new DAF XG 480s. On the contrary, where the tailor got into trouble by acting alone, Schnug’s management sought collaboration with workshop supervisors and drivers in their search for the optimal vehicle. This joint approach led to a surprising outcome for the family business: for the first time in Schnug’s history, the choice fell on DAF. In fact, no fewer than seven at once. And that’s no fairy tale.

Immediately sold

Schnug director Maximilian Leven also consulted colleagues from the European freight network ELVIS, which includes over 250 transport companies. There, he heard glowing reviews about the design, spacious cab, and high transport efficiency of DAF’s latest generation of long-haul trucks. But what ultimately convinced him was the positive feedback from his own drivers. They were given a demo vehicle by DAF dealer BTS in Dortmund and were immediately convinced.

Satisfied drivers

A satisfied driver impacts all aspects of vehicle operation. Director Leven agrees:
“I’m very happy with our ‘seven-strike’ so far. Since the DAF XGs arrived earlier this year, each has driven about 40,000 kilometers. We drive a lot in southern Germany, where my drivers really need the 480 hp in the Bavarian Alps and surrounding areas. Despite that, I see the XGs performing well in terms of fuel consumption within our fleet. These tractors also fall into the most favorable toll class due to their low CO₂ emissions. Just as important, my drivers are happy with the comfort and space the XG offers. A satisfied and well-rested driver is a safe driver,” Leven summarizes. 

National transport in Germany

Schnug’s drivers haul curtain-side trailers and closed or refrigerated trailers across Germany with their new DAFs. They mainly transport chemical products in barrels and on pallets, but also foodstuffs. The DAF XGs also carry partial loads to customers in southern Germany. In a country as large as Germany, this is all considered national transport. Each driver clocks about 120,000 kilometers annually.

“They were eagerly awaiting the DAF XG with its spacious cab, flat floor, and over two meters of standing height. They couldn’t wait to hit the road with 483 hp and comfortable cab. For my sister and co-director Philippa and me, this truck is the perfect mix of favorable purchase price and low operating costs,” says Maximilian Leven.

Still the first

As mentioned, Schnug’s drivers lack nothing in their DAF XG. In 2021, DAF was the first truck manufacturer to translate new European size regulations into a more fuel-efficient vehicle with a more spacious, luxurious, and above all, comfortable cab. This lead in offering “driver’s delight” has not been relinquished. Schnug Logistic didn’t skimp on options either—understandably so, as their drivers are usually on the road all week and only home on weekends.

Safety

Safety is a top priority at Schnug. That’s why the XGs are equipped with the DAF Digital Vision System. The curb and front-view mirrors have been replaced by the DAF Corner View, which gives the driver an unmatched view of what’s happening on the passenger side in front of and next to the truck. This significantly increases the driver’s control over the vehicle.

Top priority

For the drivers, the new digital technology in the DAF vehicles is a huge leap forward. In addition to digital cameras, their new DAFs also feature a comprehensive ADAS package, including EAB for emergency braking, lane and blind spot assistance with pedestrian detection, and Adaptive Cruise Control. “For us, road safety is the highest priority,” says director Leven.

Sustainability

Schnug has been working on sustainability for years. Solar panels now cover the roofs, generating energy for internal use. The first hybrid and electric passenger cars are already “refueling” with their own solar power. Schnug is currently preparing for the arrival of electric trucks, and DAF is clearly in the picture for that as well.

Optimal uptime

But until then, the vehicles must work hard every day. Optimal uptime is the magic word. That’s why Schnug has taken out a DAF MultiSupport CARE⁺ maintenance contract for all seven XGs. Maintenance is carried out by service partner Bauer Nutzfahrzeuge & Baumaschinen, located just ten kilometers away.
“Only minor service and repair work, tire management, and inspections are done in our own workshop at the main location in Solingen,” explains workshop manager Michael Scholdra. But so far, he hasn’t had to do much work on the DAF XGs. All the more reason for Schnug to choose DAF again for their next purchase.