DAF officially launches XG prime movers in Australia

DAF Trucks Australia has announced the release of two flagship models, the DAF XG and XG+.

The new trucks are equipped with the powerful 15-litre PACCAR PX-15 engine delivering 660 horsepower.

These models are the result of an Australian-led project, working with global PACCAR engineering teams and industry-leading supplier partners.

Test models have been validated over an estimated 5 million kilometres in real-world Australian conditions.

Driven by the ambition to create the most productive linehaul truck possible, the team has combined what is being called the “superior safety, luxury, and aerodynamics” of an all-new cab with a next generation engine that delivers the power and torque Australian applications demand.

PACCAR Australia is confident that through the two new flagships and one new engine, the all-new DAF XG and XG+ will redefine the future for linehaul on Australian roads.

“Throughout the development of the XG, we were eager to extend the capability of this truck to suit the high productivity applications that make Australian transport so unique,” said Ross Cureton, Director of Product Planning, explains,

“Through PACCAR’s global powertrain partnerships, we identified the perfect combination to deliver a step forward in performance, fuel economy and durability, while preserving the outstanding comfort, safety and refinement of this next generation DAF.”

According to Brad May, Chief Engineer, it was critical for the project to be led by an Australian team that has decades of experience engineering products in the domestic market.

“It’s about so much more than just the cab and engine. Frame layout, fuel and AdBlue tanks, air filtration, suspension and axles to name a few,” he said.

“Putting all this together without diluting our design for the needs of other world markets is the secret to making the XG greater than the sum of its parts, and that’s something PACCAR Australia has been doing for more than 50 years.”

DAF XG+ is loaded at a depot.

The PACCAR PX-15 as it is being officially called is a Euro 6-compliant new generation engine platform with a sculpted, ladder frame style block.

PACCAR claims the PX-15 patented architecture allows it to operate at higher cylinder pressures, resulting in impressive performance – 660hp at 1800rpm and 3200Nm torque between 900-1400rpm.

To harness the high torque output from the PX-15 engine, the Australian XG and XG+ are equipped with the ZF TraXon 16-speed automated gearbox.

DAF, with its latest generation cab design, is the first manufacturer to leverage updated European regulations on cab dimensions.

The new generation cab features a redesigned front grille for improved cooling and aerodynamics, 220-litre toolboxes on both sides, and easy access with three evenly spaced steps.

Both the XG and XG+ showcase tapered, aerodynamic cabs that not only enhance driver visibility but also significantly improve comfort and space.

New features within the cabin set new standards for reduced interior noise levels, helping drivers remain alert for longer.

The extended length and flat floor of the new generation cabs also contribute to greater comfort and freedom of movement for the driver. The XG and XG+ models both boast interior standing heights of more than 2 metres, providing ample space to stand upright. Due to both the extended cab length and roof height, the XG and XG+ deliver a sense of space and comfort like never before.

Integrated into the dashboard is a spacious retractable table perfect for working or enjoying a meal. There is also a generous storage tray for documents. Additionally, there are multiple USB ports and 12V sockets for added convenience.

The New Generation DAF trucks offer the most extensive range of active and passive safety features ever provided by DAF.

Both models are equipped with a 270 degrees corner view camera that effectively reduces blind spots on the passenger side and the front of the vehicle, enhancing roadside safety.

Additionally, the trucks feature a robust cab structure that provides 360 degrees of impact protection.

The new models come with DAF’s full suite of safety systems as standard, including vehicle stability control, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and an advanced emergency braking system. Furthermore, the patented Programmed Cab Displacement (ProCaDis) design includes a cab/chassis shear-off mechanism to mitigate trailer rear-end collisions.

“A huge benefit of the extensive local XG validation program is that customers have had time to truly benchmark these trucks against their fleet, said Michael Long, PACCAR Australia Director Sales and Marketing.

“We’re beyond 5 million kilometres on local roads now. Drivers appreciate the comfort and technology in the new cab, but they value the powertrain performance even more.

“Customers are reporting a significant fuel economy improvement whilst pushing these trucks into their most productive applications.”

XG and XG+ are available to order now, for production at the Kenworth DAF Bayswater Plant from January 2025 onwards.

In other news, Geoff Allison, Garden City Plastics General Manager, elaborated on a partnership with DAF Trucks.

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