DAF CF goes electric
DAF CF electric truck has begun operation.
DAF CF Electric truck has begun operation.
In operation since 1998, the CF heavy truck range from DAF has begun operation as an electric truck. Voted as the ‘International Truck of the Year’ in 2018, the CF was treated to an electric powertrain by its manufacturer in association with Netherlandsbased VDL. To electrify the CF, DAF Trucks has partnered with VDL to release a first series of ‘field test’ trucks. Going into operation with leading customers, the truck features state-of-the-art VDL E-Power Technology for zero emissions and ultra-low noise. Manufactured by DAF with the full electric installation done by VDL Groep in Eindhoven, and in what is considered as a demonstration of strong co-operation between the two companies in the field of electrification of CVs, the electric CF is powered by a 210 kW motor. A 4x2 tractor unit developed for up to 40-tonne distribution applications within urban areas in which single or double axle semi-trailers are the standard, the electric CF produces a peak torque of 2000 Nm. Using VDL’s advanced E-Power Technology for full-electric operation, the truck gets its energy from the lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 170 kWh.
With a range of approximately 100 kilometres, which is appropriate for high volume distribution applications, the electric CF weighs 9,700 kg. Expressed Preston Feight, President, DAF Trucks, “DAF was among the first manufacturers to introduce a hybrid electric distribution truck in Europe and has continued to develop hybrid and electric powertrains.” Stating that DAF has a strong history of developing innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers and we will continue to provide them the full complement of appropriate technology choices to ensure their success, Feight mentioned, “As cities announce their intention to require zero emissions and ultra-low noise we will make sure our customers have the optimal solutions for their success.” The quick charging of batteries executed in 30 minutes (a complete full charge can be accomplished in 1.5 hours), the electric CF, on the outside, looks no different from that of a diesel powered equivalent. Inside too, it does not look very different from that of the conventional, diesel powered CF. Interesting is the fully-digital instrument console and the multifunctional steering wheel.
Ultra quiet to execute night-time deliveries, the electric CF, according to Willem van der Leegte, president of VDL Groep, is an exciting development and represents a tremendous opportunity for the two companies (VDL Groep and DAF) to lead the electric commercial vehicle world. Mentioned Willem van der Leegte, “VDL has not just proven itself as a leader in fully electric buses for public transport, it has already delivered hundreds of electric buses to public transport operators throughout Europe.”