DAF Trucks has announced it is introducing its CF Electric truck for the UK market, with series production to commence from the end of March 2021.
The new Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) CF Electric will be available in 4×2 tractor and 6×2 rigid models in full UK right-hand-drive specification.
This launch follows successful in-service trials with operators in Germany and the Netherlands with, among others, supermarket chains Albert Heijn and Jumbo. Trials of the CF Electric tractor unit elsewhere have confirmed DAF’s BEV credentials regarding safety, reliability and productivity. Several CF Electric 6×2 rigids fitted with refuse collection bodies have also been operating in the Netherlands, proving suited to waste collection duties.
DAF is already selling DAF BEVs in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. Along with the UK launch, the CF Electric is also going on sale in France.
Equipped with the latest generation Lithium Ferro (iron) Phosphate battery technology the CF Electric has a single-charge range of up to 220km and a weight reduction of 700kg compared to previous models. The new battery pack delivers 350kWh (315kWh effective capacity) and is capable of full recharge in 75 minutes when connected to a 250kW charging station. Incorporating a full recharge into a drivers’ mandatory break will likely provide the CF Electric with full-day operational capability on urban distribution work.
The CF Electric 6×2 rigid features DAF’s ‘FAN’ axle configuration comprising a steer, drive and lifting rear-steer tag-axle, with DAF’s latest Electro-Hydraulic Steering system on the rearmost axle to assist manoeuvrability. The CF Electric 4×2 tractor unit at 37-tonnes GCW provides emissions-free solutions for a range of inter-urban truck-and-trailer applications, while the 6×2 rigid is expected to appeal primarily to waste collection and city distribution operations.
DAF Trucks is accompanying sales of the new CF Electric with a dedicated support programme to ensure operators maximise BEV efficiencies, including pre-sale advanced route simulation, and practical advice on ‘smart’ and efficient battery recharging.
“We’re really excited at the prospect of bringing the CF Electric to UK operators,” said David Price, DAF Trucks’ Municipal Sales Manager with responsibility for sale of DAF electric vehicles in the UK, “Interest at the CV Show last year was extremely favourable, and feedback from a group of demanding customers on the Continent provides further encouragement that we have a very capable truck well suited to the UK. Safety, reliability and, of course, productivity, are critical in any new product development and we’re confident that the CF Electric ticks these boxes, alongside the BEV’s very obvious environmental benefits.”
