DAF Vlaanderen Manufacture’s 1,000,000th Cab

DAF opened its production facilities in Belgium in 1966. It started with the manufacturing of cabs, followed by the production of axles in 1971. Today some 180 cabs a day leave the production line, destined for the popular DAF CF- and XF-series of medium- and heavy duty transport.

Major investments

In the past years, major investments have been made in the cab factory in view of the introduction of the newest generation of DAF Euro 6-vehicles, of which production started in 2013. Large parts of the manufacturing process are fully automated, with welding robots taking care of most of the production process of the body-in-white. A completely new production area was created for installing the roof of the Super Space Cab, DAF’s most spacious cab. Over the last ten years DAF invested about half a billion Euros in its axle and cab factory. Production takes place sequentially, following the ‘just-in time’ principle, which means that the cabs are delivered to the DAF assembly

plant in Eindhoven and to Leyland Trucks in Great Britain in precidely the right order and at precisely the right time.

“The milestone of 1,000,000 manufactured cabs is a fantastic recognition of the employees of DAF Vlaanderen”, said Harrie Schippers. “Also thanks to their effort and dedication, we are able to supply cabs that are market leading in terms of interior space, comfort and fit-and-finish. Essential elements that contribute to the high driver comfort for which DAF trucks are known.”

Which is exactly the reason why Vervoer Van Dievel from Mechelen selected the DAF XF. With a fleet of more than 100 vehicles, the now 75-year old company specialises in transport and logistics related services in a 500 kilometre radius around Brussels. “Besides reliability and low operational costs, high driver comfort is an important reason to choose for DAF”, said Managing Director Louis De Wael. “Our drivers are mostly on the road for longer periods, which makes it essential to have an ideal working environment, with lots of room and a perfect bunk to rest. Also, the cab of the XF offers an excellent view outside, which is important for safety. And because sustainability is one of our core values, it’s logical that we invest now in the latest Euro 6 technology to obtain the lowest possible emissions.”

DAF Trucks NV – a subsidiary of the American PACCAR Inc, one of the largest producers of heavy trucks in the world – is a leading maker of light, medium and heavy trucks in Europe*) with a market share of 16.2% in the class above 16 tons. DAF produces a complete range of tractors and trucks, with the right vehicle for every transport application.

DAF is also a leader in the field of services behind the product: Multi Support Repair and Maintenance contracts, financial services of PACCAR Financial and first-class parts supply. In addition, DAF develops and produces components such as axles and engines for bus and coach manufacturers around the world. DAF Trucks N.V. has production facilities in Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Westerlo in Belgium, Leyland in the UK, Ponta Grossa in Brazil and over 1000 dealers and service points.

Photo: Louis De Wael (left), Managing Director of Vervoer Van Dievel and DAF President-Directeur Harrie Schippers in front of the 1,000,000th cab.