DAF is taking orders for right-hand-drive versions of its new CF Electric, before production begins in March 2021.
It will be available in 4x2 tractor and 6x2 rigid guises, and is said to have a range of up to 220km from a single charge, which takes 75 minutes at a 250kW charging station.
The 350kWh (315kWh effective capacity) battery pack is 700kg lighter than the previous CF Electric’s equivalent and made from lithium iron phosphate.
The manufacturer claims charges can be scheduled to coincide with a driver’s mandatory break which “will likely” leave the truck with a full day’s operational capability for urban distribution work.
Its UK launch follows a series of trials with operators in Germany and the Netherlands, including delivery duties with supermarket chains Albert Heijn and Jumbo in addition to refuse collection work.
DAF reckons the rigid is particularly suited to the aforementioned duties, and is therefore fitted with its FAN axle configuration comprising a steer, drive and lifting rear-steer tag-axle and its electro-hydraulic steering system on the rearmost axle to aid manoeuvrability. The tractor is said to be destined for “inter-urban truck-and-trailer applications” and has a GCW of 37 tonnes.
Operators who take the plunge will also be able to access a support programme, which includes “pre-sale advanced route simulation” and advice on “smart and efficient battery recharging”.
“We’re really excited at the prospect of bringing the CF Electric to UK operators,” said municipal sales manager David Price. “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.”
