DAF, a leading European truck maker and part of the Paccar Group, has developed a host of innovative solutions to strengthen its portfolio and offer increased value to its customers across the globe. The new offerings include the CF Silent distribution truck and the CF and XF Low Deck tractors, and also Predictive Cruise Control and Predictive Shifting technologies for enhanced fuel efficiency.
The unique CF Silent is a perfect fit for urban distribution during times when noise restrictions apply. When the ultra-quiet CF is set to its special ‘silent mode’, the noise level is less than 72 dB(A), which means that the CF can be certified as a Quiet Truck and enabling goods to be loaded and unloaded in areas where evening, night-time or early morning noise restrictions apply.
The new DAF CF silent is equipped with the powerful yet efficient 10.8 litre PACCAR MX-11 Euro 6 engine (ratings of 210 kW/286 hp to 320 kW/435 hp) that is already well-known for its low noise levels.
There is a special ‘silent’ button on the dashboard. If pressed, the engine software switches to a programme that limits torque and engine speed, and gears are changed at lower engine speeds. The encapsulation of the gearbox also contributes to noise reduction.
DAF will supply the extra quiet CF distribution truck beginning in 2015 as a 4×2 and 6×2 rigid and tractor, with the choice of a Day Cab, Sleeper Cab or Space Cab and a wide selection of wheel base options.
Saving height
Fitting low-profile tyres (315/45/R22.5) and adapting the air suspension has enabled the fifth wheel height to be reduced from 96 to just 91 cm. This means that, within the maximum vehicle height of 4 metres, trailers with an internal height of 3.00 metres can be used, allowing volumes of more than 100 m3 for maximum transport efficiency. An internal height of 3.00 metres is also valuable for transport operators working in the automotive sector where one-metre high standardised containers are often used. These one-metre containers can be stacked three high in the semi-trailer.
The new DAF CF and XF Low Deck tractors are available with air suspension on the front axle. In addition, a new single-leaf parabolic suspension has been developed.
A new roof deflector for the XF Low Deck with Super Space Cab ensures optimum aerodynamics and a 1.5% saving in terms of fuel and CO2 emissions.
The new DAF Low Deck tractors are available with a wheel base of 3.60 and 3.80 metres and are powered by the state-of-the-art 10.8 litre PACCAR MX-11 and 12.9 litre PACCAR MX-13 engines.
Predictive cruise control & predictive shifting
DAF has recently introduced Predictive Cruise Control, in combination with Predictive Shifting. This option is available in January 2015 on Euro 6 CF and XF models with an automated AS Tronic 12 speed gearbox. These sophisticated technologies, developed by DAF’s engineering team, contribute to enhanced vehicle efficiency.
Predictive Cruise Control uses the advanced GPS technology to determine the exact position of the vehicle and to know which driving conditions have to be taken into account in the next 1 to 2 km. In fact, the system ‘looks’ ahead and anticipates slopes and descents.
The driver sets the desired speed in advance, as well as the permitted deviation above and below this value, with three pre-programmed options available for the permitted downward deviation. Within the specified range, Predictive Cruise Control determines the ideal speed and Predictive Shifting selects the ideal gear.
The state-of-the-art Predictive Cruise Control and Predictive Shifting functions will further strengthen DAF’s industry-leading position in fuel efficiency and low total cost of ownership.