At the end of the year DAF announched the product news for 2015, and that is a lot of news! DAF will introduce a large number of innovations that will significantly contribute to optimised transport efficiency. Enhancements to the already efficient PACCAR MX engines combined with innovative technologies such as Predictive Cruise Control, Predictive Shifting and Eco Mode add up to fuel saving opportunities of 4–5%. New deflectors and fenders offer possibilities for additional savings.
Oil flow of the 10.8 litre MX-11 engine has been improved while even more efficient combustion is achieved through a new design of the combustion chamber, optimised fuel injection and enhanced software. The new turbo on the 12.9 litre PACCAR MX-13 engine results in improved flow and a new camshaft leads to optimised valve timing. The PACCAR MX-13 engine also benefits from an even more efficient oil flow, while friction losses have been minimized. In addition, a very efficient dual-stage water pump is applied, next to optimised software.
With an already excellent reputation for fuel efficiency, the PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines are now up to 2% more economical, of course depending on application and conditions. Multi-pulse injection also means that the engines run even more quietly than before.
The PACCAR MX-13 engine optimizations not only improve fuel efficiency, they also have a positive influence on the performance of the engine brake. With a 20% increase in power (360 kW at 2,000 rpm), the engine brake is an excellent alternative to a retarder for the majority of applications. The MX Engine Brake – which can now be controlled from the steering column in three stages – offers significant cost, weight and fuel consumption benefits.
Eco Mode is a new standard feature on all Euro 6 CF and XF models with PACCAR MX engine. Eco Mode reduces engine torque by 10% in the first eleven gears, again reducing fuel consumption in daily use by approximately 1%. Most driving conditions don’t require full acceleration, and maximum torque can easily be made available at the touch of a button.
As part of the DAF Transport Efficiency program, the range of deflectors and collars has been expanded further to provide the best aerodynamics and the lowest possible fuel consumption.
For the Euro 6 CF with sleeper cab a new aerodynamic package has been developed, featuring a roof deflector that is 10 cm higher and fenders spanning 2.55 metres, leaving a gap of just 5 centimetres between truck and trailer. A new roof deflector that can be adjusted to trailer heights of 4 metres has been designed especially for Low Deck vehicles.
Obviously the driver has a key role to play in reducing operational costs and, in particular, fuel consumption. This is why DAF has developed the Driver Performance Assistant (DPA) for its LF, CF and XF models. It provides the driver with comprehensive feedback on fuel consumption achieved, levels of anticipation whilst driving and on braking behaviour. In addition, the central information display provides advice about how to save fuel.
As a new feature, information from the tachograph can now be projected on the central information display, giving the driver a clear overview of driving and resting times to avoid infringements. The screen will also display when the vehicle’s next service inspection is due, ensuring timely maintenance for maximum vehicle efficiency. Based on the driver card, the DPA will switch automatically to the required language for driver convenience.