Lynn Star Distribution has ordered 12 DAF XF480s and one DAF LF220 under contract hire from Ryder. The XFs all have Super Space Cabs and mid-lift axles while the 18-tonne CF is a rigid curtainsider complete with Day Cab.
The Norfolk-based haulier has since signed another new deal for an additional 16 new XF 6x2s with Super Space cabs.
Sherridan Dowen, MD at Lynn Star Distribution, said: “We won’t just buy the cheapest vehicles because it doesn’t pay dividends – we like to keep our drivers happy, hence why we opted for the XF Space Cab because it’s much bigger.
“Some of our drivers go out on a Monday and won’t come home until Friday, so it is important that they are comfortable while they are out working for us,” he added.
Dan Stockdale, senior transport manager at Lynn Star Distribution said: “We decided to go with DAFs due to already running them for a number of years now they have always served us well being reliable, drivers enjoying the comfort and driving style.”
The company did a fleet overhaul, Stockdale explained, to build on the existing fleet size due to taking on new clients, replacing a mix of four year old DAFs and Renaults, and the new units are already showing improved fuel consumption, he said.
The drivers are finding new idle shutdown modes and adaptive cruise control make for a more relaxing experience when driving the trucks. This was further aided by a driver training day which was provided by Ryder, allowing the firm to optimise vehicle performance.
Steve Williams, business development director at Ryder, said: "We are delighted to have been able to provide Lynn Star with a comprehensive package that meets all of their requirements. We understand that it’s not just about providing the right vehicles, but also being a trusted partner delivering added value like the driver vehicle training from DAF."
