After several weeks of hype generated by leaked images on the web, the wait is now over – earlier today DAF unveiled its new XF, XG and XG+ to the press during a virtual launch event.
The big news is that DAF has succeeded in being the first manufacturer to come up with a significantly larger cab under the most recent EU legislation. The new XF has got bigger, while the XG and XG+ versions go even further.
DAF claims that the new vehicles offer 10% fuel savings and up to 14% more interior space. Some believe the latter will prove to particularly important amid the current driver shortages in Europe. The theory is that space and comfort will be valued increasingly more than it already is in the coming years.
The XF
The new XF has its floor slightly lower than the current model. However, the cabin has grown 16cm at the front – increasing the interior as a result.
The XG and XG+
For those who want a larger cab, DAF’s XG models could do the trick. These models are a little higher and have a flat cabin floor. Furthermore, not only has the front grown by 16cm, but the cabin is also longer towards the rear. In total, there is an additional 33cm, which certainly isn’t to be sniffed at.
The largest version unveiled by DAF today is called the XG+. The roof height of the XG+ is almost 220cm from the inside, which makes it the largest cabin on the European market. To be precise, the new DAF flagship has a cabin volume of 12.5 m3, making the XG+ an extra 14% larger than the current DAF XF Super Space Cab.
Naturally, this means even more storage and living space, as well as room for an 80cm-wide bed that can be adjusted as shown in the image above.
Common features
Like a number of new models from various manufacturers, DAF’s new generation of trucks may be optionally equipped with a camera system instead of mirrors. Furthermore, new generation DAF models sport a revamped digital dashboard, numerous extra safety systems and an electronic handbrake (despite the press photos featuring a traditional handbrake).
Other technical improvements include new cylinder heads and pistons that create higher pressures and produce up to 100Nm more torque. Furthermore, DAF has renewed all the components in the engine in order to reduce losses from friction; the same is true of the new rear axle. Those changes, together with other aerodynamic and technical improvements, result in the aforementioned 10% increase in fuel consumption.
Truck and Driver magazine editor Dougie Rankine, who obviously knows his stuff when it comes to trucks, also posted the following observations on social media:
- No touchscreens. Digital dash screen standard, a second one is optional. All controls done via the steering wheel.
- No power increase, top output for the MX 13 remains at 530hp.
- No more manual boxes. But the existing XF is still being built for a while alongside the new one so if you want a stick, this will be your last chance.
Production schedule
Production will start on the new models at the end of the year.
Photo credit: DAF