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DAF Trucks gets serious on efficiency at Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle Event 2015
8th September 2015
DAF Future Truck Chassis Concept FTCC
DAF Trucks is presenting two vehicles at Cenex LCV 2015 this week; both are graphic examples of the DAF Transport Efficiency programme and the company’s committed, and ongoing, efforts in helping customers reduce operating costs. On show is DAF Trucks’ latest 12 tonne LF ‘Future Truck Chassis Concept’ (FTCC) along with a current-production CF Silent FTG CF440 6x2 tractor.
Both of DAF Trucks’ exhibits are available for demonstration at Millbrook during the show.
Future Truck Chassis Concept
DAF Trucks’ prototype FTCC distribution truck is based on a 12-tonne LF boasting significantly improved payload potential over its current production stablemate – itself already offering class-leading weight statistics. Built to an innovative and patented design, and in combination with lightweight materials and components, the FTCC achieves a remarkable weight saving of 500kg on a 12 tonne chassis.
The FTCC comprises a chassis and body built in the UK by Leyland Trucks in close cooperation with Sapa Profiles UK, who worked extensively with DAF on the design and manufacturing of the aluminium extrusions, and CSA Group, who assisted with the validation of the truck by defining and conducting vehicle and rig-based testing. The project was co-funded by the British Government’s Innovate UK, with the goal of increasing payload at a lower fuel consumption, resulting in reduced CO2emissions.
From a production perspective, extensive use is made of aluminium extrusions for an optimal ratio between weight and stiffness, including side and cross members, suspension components, the floor of the bodywork and the front underrun protection assembly. Newly designed and patented componentry include a front frame module and a bodywork floor structure integrated into the chassis frame design.
In addition to the many weight saving measures, the FTCC project includes a number of other advanced vehicle features such as independent front air suspension with rack-and-pinion steering, to investigate its ride quality benefits, steering precision and vehicle packaging improvements.
Silent Mode
Already available to operators, and also part of the DAF Transport Efficiency programme, is DAF’s new ‘Silent Mode’ available on DAF CF and XF models powered by the Euro-6 PACCAR MX-11 engine.
Debuted in the UK at this year’s CV Show, and introduced principally for urban night-time deliveries, Silent Mode is engaged by the driver by simple activation of a dash-mounted ‘Silent’ button. Beneath the cab, engine software alters performance characteristics to reduce noise levels to less than 72 dB(A).
DAF CF Silent available on CF and XF models
Eco Mode
Further promoting efficiency, DAF Eco Mode is the new standard feature on all Euro-6 PACCAR MX-powered CF and XF models. By reducing engine torque by just 10% in all but top gear, Eco Mode reduces fuel consumption by a significant 1%. If necessary, a touch of a button briefly re-engages the engine’s full-torque characteristics before returning to Eco Mode shortly after.
The DAF Transport Efficiency programme also encompasses DAF Trucks’ comprehensive range of customer support services. DAFaid, DAF MultiSupport R&M packages, DAF Parts, PACCAR Financial and DAF Telematics – all combine to provide operators with a total transport solution.
Abbey Logistics the first UK operator to take DAF Trucks new CF Silent model - CF 440 FT Silent Mode
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