The centre of attention is undoubtedly the DAF CF Electric tractor unit, on show for the first time in the UK. The exhibit is one of a number of innovative zero-emission CF Electric vehicles taking part in field trials in the Netherlands. The show unit is in operation with Simon Loos who, along with Peter Appel Transport, provides transport for Dutch supermarket chain Albert Heijn.

The CF Electric is developed by DAF in partnership with VDL Groep and is powered by a 210kW (286bhp) E-motor. The 170kWh battery pack delivers a range of approximately 100km, which is suitable for high volume city distribution applications and, with quick-charging, a full charge can be achieved in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for charging whilst loading and unloading.

For operators looking to cut their carbon footprint, DAF is promoting the use of HVO (Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil) as an alternative to conventional diesel. HVO is made from renewable resources and as such can cut well-to-wheel carbon dioxide emission by up to 90%.

Visitors to the show will be able to learn more about DAF’s vision of how transport is adapting to meet the environmental challenges of air quality and global warming in one of a series of presentations taking place in the DAF Showtrekker trailer located in DAF Trucks’ outside exhibition area. Other topics include the London HGV Safe System Permit scheme, a ULEZ and Clean Air Zone update, DAF Connect and DAF Fleet Services presentations.

The market leader’s main stand in Hall 5 also showcases other models from across the range, while an adjacent outside exhibition area provides visitors with a wide selection of vocational vehicles including multi-axle tractors and rigids, and a variety of DAF First Choice quality-approved used trucks.

Show vehicles include the newly-announced FAW 8x4 double-drive ‘tridem’ configuration which combines exceptional manoeuvrability with great traction to enable the 32-tonne GVW rigid to access the tightest and slippiest locations.

The importance of excellent manoeuvrability is demonstrated by a number of other DAF exhibits on show which are equipped with DAF’s new EHS (Electro-Hydraulic Steering) system that guides the steered trailing axle system on rear-steer configurations. A 26-tonne GVW CF 370 FAN is ready to join DAF Trucks’ central demonstration fleet for evaluation by builders’ merchants and is equipped with a Palfinger crane and drop-side body, whilst an XF 530 FTN 6x2 rear-steer tractor unit has been specified with a low roof Comfort Cab and equipped with wet kit to enable operation with either tipping or walking floor trailers.

Alongside sits a CF 450 FAD 8x4 tipper which offers 250kg more payload over its predecessor model; a lightweight CF 450 FTP 6x2 tractor for the petro-chemical market complete with Safe Loading Pass and ADR compliance and the compact LF City 7.5-tonner equipped with a PACCAR boxvan body. DAF Trucks’ Showtrekker low-deck tractor and trailer combination is also on display decked in striking air-brushed livery to celebrate the company’s history.

DAF Trucks’ main stand also focuses on the company’s extensive customer support portfolio, including DAF Connect, an online Fleet Management system, and DAF Fleet Services, DAF Trucks’ comprehensive maintenance support package to support major fleets operating across multiple locations to ensure whole-fleet compliance and to maximise vehicle uptime.

The CV Show also sees DAF Trucks promote its new driver training voucher scheme. Upon acquiring their new CF and XF vehicles, all retail customers’ drivers will be entitled to professional driver training courtesy of 25 dedicated DAF Dealer Driver Trainers located throughout the DAF Dealer network. Approximately 2.5 hours in total, training includes in-cab and vehicle walk-round familiarisation followed by on-road coaching.

“We’re delighted to be exhibiting at the CV Show again this year in line with our intention to attend the show on a two-yearly cycle,” said DAF Trucks’ Managing Director, Robin Easton, “The CV Show always provides us with a great opportunity to network with customers, both existing and new, plus a chance to exhibit our new LF, CF and XF product range – which, of course, we unveiled at the NEC in 2017.”