DAF in Action
International Truck of the Year jury chairman Florian Engel
“Every now and then you step into a vehicle and know after just a few kilometers that you’re driving something special. That’s exactly what happened to us when we drove the XD and XF Electric. A great driveline, perfect view, impressively efficient, and extremely comfortable. The XD and XF Electric were elected ‘International Truck of the Year 2026’ by an overwhelming majority of votes for good reason. They set a new benchmark.”
Florian Engel doesn’t need much time to explain why the XD and XF Electric were chosen as International Truck of the Year 2026. As jury chairman, Engel presented the Award during a grand gala dinner in Lyon to Harald Seidel, President of DAF Trucks.
“In 2018, DAF was the first European truck manufacturer to offer a fully electric truck to the market. The experience DAF has gained since then is clearly reflected in the brand-new XD and XF Electric. These are well-thought-out vehicles that offer both the operator and the driver the very best in this segment,” says Engel.
“We also spoke as a jury with a major international haulier who participated in the field test of these vehicles. He told us he would love to deploy the electric XD and XF on all his distribution routes in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg as of yesterday. And that a first trip to Germany left him wanting even more. That shows just how versatile and capable this vehicle is. It’s not a compromise. The XD and XF Electric enable full-scale operations. And with that, they raise the bar for electric trucks to a new level.”
According to the rules of the International Truck of the Year organisation, the title goes annually to the vehicle introduced in the past 12 months that has made the greatest contribution to road transport efficiency. All candidates are assessed on technological innovation, comfort, safety, driving qualities, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and operating costs.
That this is the third time in just five years that DAF has won the title makes the 2026 award extra special. Such a feat has only happened once before in the past five decades. Previously, the New Generation XF-XG-XG+ were named ‘International Truck of the Year 2022’. The award for 2023 went to the XD.
Praised for efficiency
The International Truck of the Year jury got to know the New Generation DAF XD and XF Electric trucks extensively. “Whichever jury member I spoke to afterward, everyone was impressed. The vehicles also turned out to have a substantial range. Even in bad weather, consumption remained impressively low. The advantages of LFP battery technology and the superior driving comfort spoke volumes. The DNA of the XD and XF Electric is unmistakable: The cabs offer the driver plenty of space, are highly aerodynamic for low consumption, and feel very safe thanks to the excellent all-round visibility.”
“During extensive test drives, we were also impressed by the drivelines. The trucks always felt powerful, regardless of motor output. Moreover, we hardly noticed any gear shifting from the transmission. That’s exceptional. The modular vehicle concept also offers a wide choice of battery and axle configurations, giving operators tremendous flexibility,” Engel adds.
“DAF’s choice for a centrally mounted electric motor and a traditional rear axle works excellently. We established during our drives that this setup can be at least as energy-efficient as a driveline with an e-axle. In addition, this configuration ensures perfect weight distribution, allowing virtually all applications to be covered with a single technical platform. All in all, a unique achievement, making the XD and XF Electric the rightful winners of our award.”
"During extensive test drives, jury members praised the XD and XF Electric for the perfection of their drivelines and the almost imperceptible gear changes."
Florian Engel
Chairman of the International Truck of the Year jury
Eight times a winner
This is not the first time DAF has claimed the most prestigious prize in the truck industry. Previous winners include the DAF 95 (1988), DAF 95XF (1998), DAF LF (2002), DAF XF 105 (2007), DAF CF/XF (2018), DAF XF-XG-XG+ (2022), and DAF XD (2023).
A rich history of award-winning trucks...
Zero-emission range of over 500 kilometers
The XD and XF Electric trucks are powered by PACCAR’s advanced EX-D1 and EX-D2 electric motors, with outputs ranging from 170 kW (230 hp) to 350 kW (480 hp). With modular battery packs from 210 to 525 kWh, the 4x2 and 6x2 tractors and rigids offer a range of more than 500 zero-emission kilometers. With proper charging planning, distances of more than 1,000 kilometers per day are possible.
The DAF XD and XF Electric trucks are designed for both urban and regional distribution as well as long-haul applications. Outstanding aerodynamics are combined with a low cab position, ultra-low window lines, and innovative digital camera systems for unrivaled safety and visibility.
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How PACCAR Power Solutions is accelerating the energy transition
The transport sector stands on the threshold of fundamental change. The switch from fossil fuels to electrically powered vehicles is no longer a distant dream. Instead, it has become a daily reality. PACCAR Power Solutions is playing a leading role in this transition with its complete package of transport solutions.
By Henk de Lange
Michael van Rijen, head of PACCAR Power Solutions in Europe, emphasises the importance of an integrated approach: ‘The switch to electric vehicles is not just a matter of finding a replacement for the diesel truck. It is a strategic decision that demands a wellthought- out strategy in which loading infrastructure, energy management and operational processes all converge.’ Van Rijen has seen how businesses often have to grapple with practical problems: ‘How many charging points will I need? What about the grid capacity? What subsidies are available? We guide our customers step by step through everything from orientation to implementation. They are not alone.’
Futureproof
Van Rijen stresses that the transition to electric vehicles is not only necessary but that it also offers opportunities for growth and innovation. ‘We help transporters not just to become more sustainable but also to operate more efficiently,’ he explains. PACCAR Power Solutions offers exactly that: a seamless transition to electric transport, while keeping a close eye on technical and economic feasibility. Where DAF has become the go-to partner for the newest generation of electric vehicles, PACCAR Power Solutions is ready to provide the required systems. The complete package, in other words.
From vision to reality
In addition to charging stations that can charge a truck up to 80% in 30 minutes, another PACCAR Power Solutions showpiece is the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). It allows customers to store their own solar energy and use it for rapid charging, particularly when the electricity grid is overloaded. When combined with the Energy Management System (EMS), which uses real-time data to monitor weather conditions, energy prices and energy consumption, it creates a powerful ecosystem. ‘These systems enable businesses to store energy during off-peak hours, as well as any excess solar energy they generate, and use it during peak hours,’ explains Van Rijen. ‘It can also be returned to the grid at a favourable rate. The result? Lower energy costs, less strain on the grid and a more sustainable energy system.’
Futureproof operations
With its charging stations, smart storage and management systems and a team of experts that is always ready to help, PACCAR Power Solutions offers a futureproof solution for transport operators who wish to become more sustainable without negatively affecting their reliability or returns. The slogan ‘Electrify Your Future’ is more than just a marketing catchphrase. It is a promise. A promise to businesses that are ready to take a step towards a cleaner, more efficient and even more profitable future.
Building the Van Pelt firm
Van Pelt is a genuine family business. Brothers Jos and Luc run the company together with three other brothers. They took over the business from their father and uncles, who started the company in 1955 as a coal supplier. They are now one of the largest suppliers of construction materials in Belgium and can deliver everything a building contractor might require. Jos van Pelt: ‘From cellar to rooftop!’
By Marit Smoor-Hollander
How did you make the transition from coal to construction materials? ‘We just kept adding bits,’ laughs Luc. ‘We started with coal, which led us to road transport, and then ended up in the construction sector. From small beginnings, we steadily expanded our operations. We are now one of the largest suppliers in our sector in Belgium, especially after taking over another company in the east of the country. We dredge sand for the production of concrete directly from the sea with our own ship and transport 600,000 tonnes of sand and gravel per year from our depot in Antwerp.’
From left to right: David van Pelt, Jos van Pelt, David (the proud driver of the tipper) and Luc van Pelt
Oosterweel
Just how big Van Pelt has become is obvious from the company’s current list of projects. Such as the Oosterweel Link, a new tunnel under the river Schelde that will connect the left bank with the right bank of the river in the north of Antwerp. This will provide traffic with an extra route for crossing the Schelde. ‘The amount of concrete required is so large that we decided to set up our own concrete factory on site,’ explains Jos. ‘It is the biggest project we have taken on in the last ten years.’
Everyone has an opinion
Running a family business is not always easy, the brothers admit. Jos van Pelt: ‘You know how it often goes in a family – everyone has an opinion. The tasks have been shared around so that we all have our own responsibilities.’ The five brothers took over ownership of the firm in 2015. They all have children and grandchildren and those generations help out as well. Jos’s son, David, has been working in the family business for twenty years and Luc’s daughter, Lisse, is responsible for the firms’ marketing. ‘She looks after the website and all the communication, and a whole lot more,’ he says proudly.
DAF dealer down the road
The Van Pelt fleet consists of around 90 trucks from different brands, Jos explains, after making a quick count. This year, Van Pelt expanded the fleet by adding five brand-new ‘Construction’ DAFs. Compared with the normal model, these trucks have a higher ground clearance, reinforced steel bumpers, protective plates under the radiator, off-road software and an extra-strong chassis for rough terrain and construction site applications. Jos: ‘Our first truck was also a DAF, so it felt like the right choice straight away. The dealer is only 500 metres down the road, which is ideal; so near that the driver can even walk there. We were given an excellent quotation with a good price/quality ratio and took the decision together as a family, like we always do.’
More factors
In addition to the good price/performance ratios, there were other factors that influenced their decision to choose DAF. ‘Compared with other trucks in the fleet, the DAFs are up to 20% more fuel efficient,’ says Luc. ‘We don’t focus solely on fuel consumption in our operations, but this is a welcome bonus.’ The drivers are also happy with the new arrivals. David: ‘They are particularly impressed with the level of comfort. The seat is very comfortable and it is remarkably quiet in the cab.’
The way Van Pelt chooses its trucks says it all: it’s always a family decision. And that has been working out very well, generation after generation.
Another major leap forward
DAF Trucks has added further improvements to the New Generation trucks it introduced in 2021. Because at DAF we believe that moving forward is always better than standing still. A series of innovations has set new standards in fuel efficiency, safety, connectivity and driver comfort, underlining DAF’s commitment to sustainability and, most importantly, meeting the needs of the customer.
By Gérard de l'Ainge
One of the most significant improvements is the further optimisation of the powertrains. The PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines are now equipped with new technologies, such as the Miller fuel principle, an optimised turbo and an intelligent coolant pump. All with an eye to achieving greater transport efficiency.
And that’s not all. In combination with new rear axle configurations and an advanced gear-shift strategy in the automatic Traxon gearbox, the engine speed has been reduced even further. This results not only in lower fuel consumption but also a reduction in the noise levels in the cab. At cruising speed, you can almost literally hear a pin drop.
Easy money!
DAF is going one step further to achieve maximum benefit from its DAF Transport Efficiency philosophy. All 4x2 and 6x2 models in the XD, XF, XG and XG+ series will be fitted as standard with low rolling resistance A-label tyres, an aerodynamic package and the DAF Digital Vision System, which replaces traditional mirrors with cameras. These features combine to provide more driver comfort and even higher safety levels, not to mention efficient fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions, as well as improved VECTO performance, which can contribute to lower toll rates. All of these innovations result in savings on fuel consumption of up to 3%, in addition to the 10% already provided by the New Generation DAF trucks. Easy money!
Suitable for B100 FAME
All DAF trucks were already suitable for the use of HVO, which can result in a CO2 reduction of up to 90% (well-to-wheel). However, some of the new generation models are also able to drive on 100% B100 FAME biodiesel. This allows DAF to meet the growing demand for sustainable transport solutions.
PACCAR Connect as standard
‘DAF Transport Efficiency – maximising your returns’ is the slogan that embodies DAF’s resolve to maximise the returns per kilometre of its customers. One excellent example is PACCAR Connect, an online fleet management platform that offers transporters real-time insights into the performance of their fleet and drivers. A subscription to PACCAR Connect is a standard feature on all new models in the entire DAF programme.
Fleet managers can avail of the user-friendly dashboard to follow their vehicles, analyse performance and plan maintenance. Thanks to functions such as geofencing, driving analysis and over-the-air software updates, the management of vehicles can be made more efficient and proactive. PACCAR Connect is compatible with existing logistics systems, which enables easy integration in the customer’s business operations.
Safety of the highest level
In addition to efficiency, safety is another area in which the new DAF XD, XF, XG and XG+ excel. All models are fitted as standard with an extensive range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The AEBS advanced emergency brake system, DAF Side & Turn Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Cruise Control all contribute to a safe driving experience. New features include Drive-off Assist and the most recent Drowsiness and Distraction Detection systems. The former warns the driver of vulnerable road users in the vicinity of the truck when the vehicle is standing still or driving off. Drowsiness Detection monitors the alertness of the driver.
A feature that is not new but certainly unique is the Programmed Cab Displacement System or ProCaDis for short. This ensures that the cab moves backwards in a controlled manner in the event of a head-on collision, which allows some of the energy to be absorbed and the cab to remain connected to the chassis. This is only one of the many unique safety features that make a New Generation DAF truck one of the safest vehicles on the road.
Driver comfort as priority
DAF has always understood that happy drivers are an essential element of successful transport companies. Because a happy driver is a good driver. That’s why so much attention is paid to comfort in the cab. The XD, XF, XG and XG+ each offer unparalleled interior space, a first-class design and superb ease of use.
The optimisation of the powertrain has resulted in lower noise levels when driving at cruising speed, thanks to the lower rpm. Further refinement of the gear-shift strategy ensures an even smoother drive. And the New Generation had already been well ahead of the field in that regard.
“The XD, XF, XG and XG+ each offer unparalleled interior space, a first-class design and superb ease of use.”
Conclusion
The best truck on the market is now even better. The new DAF XD, XF, XG and XG+ trucks combine technological innovation with practical benefits for both the transporter and the driver. Additional improvements in efficiency, safety, connectivity and comfort mean that DAF has made another major leap forward and introduced a new standard in the sector.
New Generation DAF XG⁺, XG and XF
Discover the New Generation DAF trucks for long and heavy haulage.
New Generation DAF XD
Discover the New Generation DAF trucks for distribution and vocational applications.
The future is now
The future of road transport is not a dot on the horizon – the future begins today and moves quickly. In this edition, we take you through the latest developments: from advanced diesel technology to fully electric trucks and smart energy management systems: innovation is in our DNA.
And an international jury of professional journalists agrees: by a wide margin, they voted our XD Electric and XF Electric as 'International Truck of the Year 2026.' This is the third time in five years that DAF has won this prestigious award.
This previously happened with the New Generation DAF XD, XF, XG, and XG+, which have been further improved and are once again setting the standard. With optimized powertrains, advanced safety systems, and unmatched driver comfort, we demonstrate that efficiency, sustainability, and safety go hand in hand perfectly. And this certainly also applies to DAF's complete range of electric vehicles.
Technology alone is not enough in this regard. The energy transition requires an integrated approach. With smart charging solutions, energy storage, and real-time fleet management solutions, we support our customers not only become more sustainable but also operate more efficiently and profitably.
What connects the articles in this DAF in Action is progress, as a means to support you in your ambitions. Whether you choose diesel or electric; together we are building a cleaner, safer, and more efficient world of transport.
Enjoy your reading!
Harald Seidel
President
DAF Trucks N.V.
Ford & Slater is embracing the electric trucks revolution with gusto
With 16 locations across the UK stretching from Rugby to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the long-established DAF dealership now has 40 technicians who have been trained to service and repair electric models. “We put them through the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) Level 3 course first, then they went on DAF’s own training courses,” says electric vehicles and sustainability manager, Josh Spencer. “And we do much more to optimally support our customers in the energy transition."
Words: Steve Banner
Says Ford & Slater joint managing director, Tim Strevens: “Sales of electric trucks are going to grow so we have to have the necessary knowledge and competence to look after them. To this end we’ve been working with DAF to ensure we are fully prepared to include having technicians spend time working with the DAF technical team in Eindhoven to fully understand the product.”
ZEHID programme
Their newly acquired skills will undoubtedly be needed in the coming years. Says Spencer: “We’ve got 60 electric trucks going through that are destined for businesses involved in the UK Government’s ZEHID programme, and one-third of them will be operating in areas served by Ford & Slater dealer locations.” ZEHID is short for Zero Emission Heavy Goods Vehicles and Infrastructure Demonstration. Backed by £200m (237m euros) from the UK government’s Department for Transport, it is there to accelerate the transition to zero-emission trucks in Britain.
“We take the view that electric trucks could account for up to 45% of the new truck market by 2029 assuming that the current legislation requiring manufacturers to reduce CO2 output remains unchanged.”
Tim Strevens
Co-owner
Fast-chargers and electric parts vans
Ford & Slater has equipped its branches in Leicester, Norwich, Peterborough and Spalding with 180kW DC PACCAR fast-chargers and is investing in solar panels. It plans to double the number of fast-chargers it has in place over the next 12 to 18 months says Spencer. All of its outlets have two or three 22kW AC chargers and they are extensively used by the business’s electric parts vans. “Of the 33 company cars we ordered recently, three are hybrids and the rest are electric,” Spencer continues. “It’s a lot easier to sell electric trucks if you turn up in an electric car and you can tell the prospective customer that any parts required will be delivered in an electric van.” Ford & Slater was one of the first dealerships to promote zero-emission DAFs. “I’ve been involved in this area full-time for the past four years,” Spencer says. “We got an LF Electric in 2021 and started demonstrating it to transport fleets from March 2022 onwards,” he continues. “I estimate that we've sold the most electric LF trucks of all the dealers around here."
45%
“Our five sales locations are all DAF Electric Truck Centres”, says Strevens. “We take the view that electric trucks could account for up to 45% of the new truck market by 2029 assuming that the current legislation requiring manufacturers to reduce CO2 output remains unchanged. We also believe that they will have a longer first life than diesel models and could remain in service with their first operator for seven or eight years,” he continues. “We’re sure that there will be a viable second-hand market for them, especially when you bear in mind that in seven or eight years’ time a lot of the UK’s cities are likely to have zero-emission zones.”
Still maintenance
It should be noted that while electrics have fewer moving parts and require less servicing than diesels, that is not to say they require no servicing at all. “Remember that they have cooling circuits, and that our trucks are fitted with twin electric motors and a three-speed epicyclic gearbox,” he says. Zero-emission trucks still have steering and suspension systems and tyres and, like diesels, still have to undergo periodic safety inspections that are mandatory for UK truck operators. Josh Spencer: “Here at Ford & Slater, we’re ready.”
WhatsApp group
While more and more electric trucks are going into service, the total remains low at present, and technicians are far more likely to encounter diesel models. So, isn’t there the danger that their electric service and repair skills will get rusty? Spencer is conscious that this could be the case. “So, what we’ve done is enrol all our electric technicians in a special electric vehicles WhatsApp group so that they are regularly updated about any changes to maintenance requirements,” he says. “Receiving such updates helps ensure that they remain electric-aware.” If you are maintaining an electric truck then safety must come first, and Ford & Slater’s workshops are equipped accordingly says Spencer. “We’ve got safety barriers and warning signs and insulated tooling and have developed a full suite of Safe Systems of Work to support our teams”.
“We can foresee allowing third parties to plug into our chargers becoming an enormous opportunity for revenue generation.”
Josh Spencer
Manager electric vehicle and sustainability
Charging infrastructure as new business
Ford & Slater takes the growth of the electric vehicle market very seriously. Longer term there could be the opportunity to repair and maintain the chargers that fleets have installed in their own premises, Spencer suggests. PACCAR offers a range of chargers for dealers to sell, and Ford & Slater is working with infrastructure providers in conjunction with DAF and PACCAR to help hauliers ensure they have sufficient power coming into their sites to support the charging facilities they will need, says Strevens. Says Spencer: “We can foresee allowing third parties to plug into our chargers becoming an enormous opportunity for revenue generation. Our Leicester site is only a mile from the M1 motorway so we might install as many as ten chargers over the next five years. We might even put in a coffee shop for drivers to use while they’re waiting for their trucks to charge up.”
Last word to Tim Strevens: “Going electric is a big change for both operators and dealers. "We’re proud to play a part in this."
Partner in the energy transition
The switch to electric transport is an important step for many businesses aiming to operate a more sustainable fleet, but that involves a lot more than simply acquiring an electric truck. DAF understands this like no other and consequently offers not only a full programme of electric vehicles but also a wide range of supporting services. This makes DAF the ideal partner in the energy transition.
By Henk de Lainge
In 2018, DAF was the first European truck manufacturer to introduce a fully electric truck to the market. The range now consists of the XB, XD and XF Electric – a complete series of zero- emission vehicles for everything from urban distribution to long-range transport. Each model has been designed with maximum efficiency, safety and comfort in mind. But DAF goes much further than just providing the vehicles. The energy transition demands an integrated approach and DAF has responded with an extensive package of solutions and services.
DAF Electric Truck Centres: expertise close by
All DAF sales dealers in Europe have been officially designated as DAF Electric Truck Centres. This means they offer highly trained mechanics, specially adapted workshops and a (semi-) public charging station. Customers can depend on them for expert advice, professional service and the prompt availability of parts.
Smart vehicle configuration with TOPEC
DAF dealers use the TOPEC system to determine the right kind of electric truck for a specific application. This advanced sales platform combines vehicle configurations with customer data and provides simulations of routes, charging intervals and energy consumption. It allows them to clearly identify the optimal specifications that will result in the highest return per kilometre. Anyone who wants to ascertain which electric truck best matches their needs can visit the DAF website and check out the XB, XD and XF Electric models on the 3D Online Truck Configurator.
Training for maximum efficiency
When a driver is handed the keys of an electric truck, they are given extensive instructions on how to use the vehicle. DAF also offers vouchers for specific driver training programmes. During the training, the drivers learn how to minimise energy consumption by applying smart charging practices, regenerative braking and efficient driving behaviour. This allows them to get the maximum out of every kWh.
PACCAR Connect: grip on performance
All electric DAF trucks are fitted as standard with PACCAR Connect, the online fleet management platform. This enables transporters to monitor the performance of their vehicles and drivers 24/7. PACCAR Connect provides information on energy consumption, battery status and the vehicle’s range – all crucial elements of efficient route planning. PACCAR Connect is compatible with existing logistics software and offers mobile services that are linked to the DAF Truck Navigation system, which can inform the truck of routes and charging stations quickly and easily. Also available as an option is the Vehicle Health module, which provides information on the technical status of the vehicle and scheduled maintenance.
Financing and maintenance: carefree driving
To make the switch to electric vehicles even more attractive, DAF offers competitive rates for its MultiSupport maintenance and repair contracts. Financing via PACCAR Financial is also possible, with options to suit the needs of every individual business.
Tailor-made charging solutions
DAF also offers an extensive programme of PACCAR charging stations, varying from 20 to 360 kW. Chargers ranging from 20 to 50 kW are available for overnight charging, while the 120 to 180 kW chargers are ideal for rapid charging between journeys. The powerful 360 kW charger can even charge two trucks at the same time. For maximum flexibility, mobile chargers are also available. And for customers who wish to optimise their energy supply, DAF offers support in the installation of microgrids via PACCAR Power Solutions (see also p. 20). This can include combinations of solar panels, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Energy Management Systems (EMS). Naturally, all aspects are taken into consideration: size of fleet, charging schedules, grid capacity and energy rates.
Together towards sustainable transport
With a full range of electric trucks, smart charging solutions, expert advice and powerful digital tools, DAF is ready to work with its customers on shaping the future of sustainable transport. ‘DAF Transport Efficiency – maximising your returns,’ says Bart Bosmans, member of the DAF Board of Management with responsibility for Marketing & Sales. ‘This also applies to the wide range of trucks and services we offer with the aim of supporting our customers in the best way possible in their energy transition.’
Silent and clean garbage collection
An electric DAF was recently put into operation at the Remondis waste management company in the Dutch town of Scherpenzeel. The vehicle, an XD Electric 220, is fitted with a Haller Magnum superstructure, making it the very first fully electric DAF rear loader in the Netherlands. ‘People appreciate a quiet garbage truck,’ says fleet manager René Knoop.
By Guus Peters
Photos: Marieke van Grinsven
Remondis is a German company that is active across the globe in recycling, water resource management and industrial and local authority services. With two thousand employees, it is one of the largest recycling companies in the Netherlands. René Knoop is the good-humoured fleet manager at Remondis in North-East Netherlands and is able to talk for hours on end about bins and garbage collection – everything from the wheelie bins we roll out onto the street every week and the skips used on construction sites to the huge containers that can hold up to forty cubic metres of waste and handle apparently limitless loads. All of these containers and their contents are collected by Remondis and its impressive fleet of trucks.
Thumbs-up
According to Knoop, the delivery of their new DAF, an XD Electric 220, was a moment to remember. ‘We saw it coming around the corner but didn’t hear a thing. That was amazing. Sometimes I ask the driver, “What’s it like driving it in the city centre? Are cyclists aware of you?” “Well,” he will say, “sometimes I can drive up behind them at the traffic lights and they don’t hear me coming. So, I have to be extra careful.” But he also says that when he drives the truck past people sitting out on a terrace in town, they often give him the thumbs-up. They’re amazed to see such a large vehicle make so little noise. People really appreciate a quiet garbage truck. Drivers always get a kick out of moments like that.’
‘We are keen to gain more experience with electric trucks. They’re going to be mandatory anyway within ten years, maybe even less’
René Knoop, fleet manager
Lower emissions
Remondis currently has six electric trucks operating around the Netherlands and Knoop is responsible for three of them in the east of the country. He believes the new XD Electric 220 at the company’s premises in Scherpenzeel is perfectly suited to their requirements. ‘It’s being used for Open Waste, a collaborative effort involving a number of waste management companies aiming to achieve lower emissions. An electric vehicle fits well into that plan. Remondis is also keen to gain more experience with electric trucks. The use of electric vehicles perfectly matches our ambitions with regard to sustainability; we want to achieve a structural reduction in emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment. We view the use of electric vehicles not just as innovative but also as a logical step in our long-term strategy. We have anchored sustainability firmly in all aspects of our operations.’
The most recent acquisition at Remondis is a DAF XD Electric 220 FAN (6x2) Day Cab. It is fitted with a Haller Magnum GPM superstructure (built in the Netherlands) and a Welvaarts weighing system (European class 3 calibrated) that can weigh loads of up to 12,000 kg and is accurate to within 5 kg.
Like clockwork
When Remondis was discussing the use of electric vehicles, it wasn’t long before the words ‘grid congestion’ came up in the conversation. Fortunately, according to Knoop, it hasn’t been a problem for Remondis. ‘You are always going to face questions like “How many vehicles will you have at the location?” and “How many will you be charging at the same time?” But here in Scherpenzeel, everything went like clockwork because they already had previous experience with two other electric vehicles. Remondis has a PACCAR rapid charger at its premises and that is sufficient to allow the truck to do a full day’s work, according to Knoop. ‘An electric truck is perfect for collecting garbage. When it returns after covering its route, it often still has thirty to forty percent left in its battery. And it only takes five hours to give it a full charge again. The distance it has to travel plays a role, obviously, but how the vehicle is used is important as well. Generally speaking, our vehicles don’t have to travel very far on any given day but they do eat up a lot of PTO hours, which is an important factor because it means the operational time of the superstructure exceeds the vehicle’s driving time.’
Wheelie bin
As already mentioned, the new DAF doesn’t have to cover very long distances but it does have to empty between 100 and 140 bins a day. The larger wheelie bins that the XD Electric 220 empties have a volume of one thousand litres each and most restaurants or businesses have more than one. ‘Some of our customers need to have their bins emptied every single day, but others only need us to come by once every two months,’ says Knoop. ‘That requires a lot of planning. If a customer calls us and asks, “Can you empty our bins tomorrow?” we do everything we can to fit it into our schedule.’
The drivers
And what about the drivers? ‘They all have an opinion too, of course,’ says Knoop laughing. ‘Sometimes they are a bit hesitant, but that all changes as soon as they’ve driven the truck. The driver who usually takes it out on the road is very enthusiastic, in any case. I got a chance to drive a DAF with a side loader and I loved it.’
New Generation XD Electric
The XD Electric is the all-round transportation solution for zero emission applications and ideal for regional and city distribution.
Ready for the future
In recent years, DAF has established itself as the industry leader in the transition towards sustainable road transport. With the introduction of the fully electric New Generation XB, XD and XF Electric, DAF has delivered a complete series of zero-emission trucks for both urban and long-range transport. A custom-made solution for every application!
By Henk de Lange
In 2018, DAF was the first European truck manufacturer to introduce a fully electric distribution truck to the market. Since then, scores of DAF Electric trucks have been successfully deployed all over Europe to supply supermarkets, transport containers and collect garbage, among other uses. Now, with the introduction of the New Generation electric trucks, DAF has elevated its range to an even higher level. The fully electric models – the XB, XD and XF Electric – are based on the multi-award-winning New Generation DAF trucks. They combine advanced technology with the DAF’s ever-dependable DNA: industry leading efficiency, safety and driver comfort.
DAF XB Electric
The new DAF XB Electric has been specially developed for urban and regional distribution. The truck is available in 12, 16 and 19-tonne versions, with wheelbases starting at 3.55 metres. Thanks to the compact cab, low entry and small turning circle, the XB Electric is extremely manoeuvrable and ideal for busy city centres.
The XB Electric is powered by an PACCAR EX-M1 or EX-M2 engine, with capacities ranging from 120 to 190 kW and a torque of 3,500 Nm. It has a range of up to 350 kilometres, depending on the battery configuration (141, 210 or 282 kWh). The LFP batteries, delivered as standard on every DAF Electric, are cobalt- and nickel-free, very thermally stable and designed for a long lifespan. They can be charged using the normal grid (AC up to 22 kW) or rapid charging (DC up to 150 kW) in which case charging from 20% to 80% takes about 40 to 70 minutes.
Safety and comfort
The XB Electric is also setting the tone with regard to safety and comfort. The truck is equipped with advanced auxiliary systems such as AEBS, DAF Turn Assist, Drowsiness Detection and Speed Limit Recognition. The cab offers excellent all-around visibility and boasts a modern digital display, comfortable seats and a high-quality finish. Just like every other DAF XB.
DAF XD and XF Electric
DAF has developed the XD and XF Electric for heavier applications and long-range transport. These trucks are equipped with the powerful PACCAR EX-D1 and EX-D2 e-engines, with capacities ranging from 170 to 350 kW and a torque up to 2,400 Nm. The powertrains are linked to between 2 and 5 modular battery packs with capacities from 210 to 525 kWh and the trucks have a range of over 500 kilometres on a single charge.
1,000 zero-emission kilometres per day
With smart vehicle and charging plans, the trucks can travel up to 1,000 zero-emission kilometres per day. The trucks are suitable for DC charging (optional) and DC rapid charging up to 325 kW (standard). A battery with three packs can be charged up to 80% in 45 minutes. The aerodynamic design of the cab, including panoramic windscreen, seamless finishing and digital mirrors, contributes to the truck’s low energy consumption. As with the XB Electric, the trucks use LFP batteries with a warranty of up to eight years.
Flexibility and body-build-friendliness as standard
The XB and the XD and XF Electric are designed with maximum body-build-friendliness in mind. Thanks to the modular placement of the batteries, there is plenty of room for the placement of other features too, such as outriggers. Also available as an option is a 650V e-PTO (25 or 90 kW) that can be used to power equipment such as cooling units without the need for a separate generator. DAF even offers a ready-to-use Bolt & Play package for specific applications, such as garbage collection using side loaders. This package contains an e-PTO, mounting brackets and connectors for the optimal integration of superstructure and chassis.
Safety and comfort of the highest level
DAF’s electric trucks are equipped with a wide range of safety systems, including the DAF Digital Vision System, DAF Corner View, City Side & Turn Assist and Lane Change Assist. These systems help the driver to spot vulnerable road users in front of and alongside the truck – very important in urban environments. It goes without saying that the level of comfort offered by the electric XB, XD and XF is very high. The cabs are spacious, ergonomically designed and equipped with digital displays that provide information on the electric powertrain at a glance. The seats and beds are designed for long journeys and, thanks to the ‘one pedal drive’ (the gas pedal is used both for accelerating and braking), every DAF Electric truck offers a smooth and intuitive driving experience, as you would expect, of course, from a DAF.
DAF is ready for the future
With the XB, XD and XF Electric, DAF delivers a full range of zero-emission trucks that provide optimal solutions for every transport application – from urban distribution to international transport. These industry-leading zero-emission trucks are backed up by a full series of specific services and it is this combination that makes DAF the ideal partner in your own energy transition.
The New Generation XD and XF Electric trucks are crowned 'International Truck of the Year 2026'. The full electric trucks were awarded by the jury for bringing mature zero-emission technology into daily operations.
The jury of 23 leading European commercial vehicle journalists praised the DAF electric trucks for their exceptional energy efficiency, refined yet powerful driveline, and advanced technical architecture.