DAF Trucks is showcasing an HVO-fuelled 18-tonne LF skip-loader chassis at Freight in the City. The UK’s market-leader is a prominent exponent of HVO (Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil) as an immediately available ‘drop-in’ fuel which requires no vehicle modifications, or alterations to service intervals, and which can deliver a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions from well-to-wheel.
HVO fuel serves as a practical solution for operators who wish to cut CO2 emissions without incurring high levels of capital investment or expensive vehicle adaptations, and where running costs are predictable and manageable. HVO is an aromatic-free paraffinic diesel marketed as Green D by renewable fuels specialist, Green Biofuels. HVO and GTL (Gas-to-Liquid – another paraffinic fuel with the same clean burning properties but produced from natural gas) are certified for use in DAF Trucks’ entire range of LF, CF and XF vehicles.
DAF Trucks’ 18-tonne GVW LF 230 FA skip-loader chassis on show at Freight in the ‘City meets, like all DAF LF models, Transport for London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) star rating’ requirements; depending on specification, Euro 6 LFs achieve either one or two stars to enable operation in London from when the scheme becomes effective from October 2020.
With applications for HGV Safety Permits now underway, DAF Trucks experts will be on-hand at Freight in the City to provide guidance on vehicle specification and DVS compliance – including its associated zero-to-five-star rating system
While all DAF LF vehicles have at least one-star rating – and thus allowing access into London – larger DAF CF and DAF XF models are also now available with optional factory-fitted equipment to ensure Safety Permit compliance. Type-Approved equipment developed with Brigade Electronics includes a near-side camera with driver’s monitor, near-side and front-corner-mounted proximity sensors with audible and visual warnings for the driver, and a left-hand indicator external audible warning for vulnerable road users. All equipment is covered by DAF Trucks’ whole vehicle two-year warranty.
Electric and Hybrid Field Trials
DAF Trucks is continuing its field trials in the Netherlands and Germany with its range of electric and hybrid trucks powered by zero- and ultra-low-emissions technology – and real-world operations continue to deliver promising results. Vehicles include the CF Electric, the CF Hybrid which features a diesel driveline supplemented by battery electric technology and an e-motor to provide zero-emission capability, and the LF Electric 4x2 rigid for urban delivery. High-profile operators taking part in field trials include major Dutch supermarket chains, Albert Heijn and Jumbo, and Contargo (part of the Rhenus Group) in Germany.
Again, DAF Trucks experts will be at Freight in the City to provide details on DAF’s alternative driveline technologies.
“We’re at Freight in the City with a wide range of solutions for urban operators,” said DAF Trucks Marketing Manager, Phil Moon. “HVO is a ready-made answer for operators looking to reduce their impact on the environment at a fundamental level. A 90% reduction in CO2 emissions from well-to-wheel is significant, and it’s available now with no set-up costs, no vehicle modifications and no changes to service intervals – even vehicle warranties remain unaffected.
“And with the Direct Vision Standard likely to have an impact on a great many operators,” he said, “we can help customers with obtaining their HGV Safety Permit. Our factory-fitted camera and warning solution developed with Brigade Electronics – experts in their field – are Type-Approved and fully compliant with the DVS requirements.
“We appreciate that operators remain concerned with the DVS and its implications for their businesses,” he added, “and our team at Freight in the City can provide guidance”.
For high resolution versions of these images and a selection of further pictures, please click here.
