The new generation of DAF XG and XG+ trucks is set to redefine linehaul transport in Australia, combining powerful performance, advanced safety, and unparalleled driver comfort. With this launch, DAF Trucks Australia aims to deliver an impressive blend of safety, luxury, and productivity, marking a significant leap forward in commercial vehicles. Built in Australia and developed with local expertise, the XG and XG+ models are specifically tailored to the unique demands of the Australian trucking landscape.
Designed for Efficiency and Comfort
The DAF XG and XG+ models represent a milestone in truck design, being the first to leverage updated European cab regulations. This innovation has allowed DAF to create a cab with superior aerodynamics, driver comfort, and safety. The exterior is a masterclass in engineering, with an elongated, tapered design that improves fuel efficiency and visibility while also enhancing the truck’s aesthetic appeal.
The cabs of the XG and XG+ feature a spacious interior with over two metres of standing height. This added height, combined with a flat floor, offers drivers more freedom of movement. The interior is fitted with high-quality materials, creating a car-like feel. Key interior highlights include a 12-inch digital display, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration, and a retractable table for work or meals. Storage solutions are plentiful, including roof console space, underbed drawers, and provisions for a microwave, TV, and phone charging.
For driver comfort, DAF has paid special attention to noise reduction. The XG and XG+ come equipped with improved suspension and dampers to minimise vibrations and maintain a quiet cab. The sleeping area, designed to be a relaxing haven, features a fully rectangular lower bunk measuring 800mm by 2220mm, while the XG+ also offers a top bunk and an electrically adjustable lower bed.
Power Meets Performance
At the heart of the new DAF range is the PACCAR PX-15 engine, a next-generation 15-litre engine that sets new benchmarks for power and efficiency. Delivering up to 660 horsepower and 3200 Nm of torque, this engine operates at high cylinder pressures, offering superior pulling power and acceleration. The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, showcasing DAF’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The PX-15 engine is paired with the ZF TraXon 16-speed automated gearbox, featuring local calibrations for high productivity applications. This combination ensures that the truck maintains optimal performance, whether on highways or rugged terrains. The improved fuel efficiency reduces operational costs, making the DAF XG and XG+ models economical for long-distance travel.
Unmatched Safety Features
The new DAF XG and XG+ set a new standard in safety, featuring a comprehensive suite of active and passive systems. Notable inclusions are:
- Corner View Camera: A 270-degree camera that reduces blind spots and enhances roadside safety by providing a clear view of the area around the truck, even in low-light conditions.
- ProCaDis Safety System: A patented cab displacement system that enhances safety during frontal collisions by maintaining cab integrity and maximising occupant survival space.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and an advanced emergency braking system, ensuring that drivers are well-supported in maintaining safety on the road.
The XG and XG+ also feature a large windscreen and a lower dashboard, enhancing direct vision for the driver. The cab’s robust structure provides 360-degree impact protection, making these trucks some of the safest on the road today.
Australian-Led Development
The development of the XG and XG+ models was led by Australian engineers, ensuring these trucks meet the specific needs of local operators. From the frame layout to fuel and AdBlue tanks, air filtration, suspension, and axles, every aspect of these trucks has been optimised for Australian conditions. Chief Engineer Brad May noted that the project was guided by decades of local experience, ensuring that the design was not diluted to meet the demands of other global markets.
The extensive local validation program involved over five million kilometres of road testing. This rigorous process allowed operators to benchmark the trucks’ performance against their fleets, yielding valuable feedback and refinements. The feedback confirmed significant improvements in fuel economy and powertrain performance, crucial for the high-productivity applications that are characteristic of Australian transport.
Local Production and Availability
The DAF XG and XG+ models will be produced at the Kenworth DAF Bayswater plant, starting in January 2025. This local production not only ensures that the trucks are tailored to Australian conditions but also allows for faster response to market demands. The DAF Dealer Network across Australia already has XG and XG+ demonstrators available for customers to experience first-hand.
