DAF Trucks has announced that its new right-hand drive CF Electric models are now available for order in the UK. Renault Trucks has also expanded its all-electric Z.E. range, offering greater choice of batteries for medium duty vehicles and a new 3.5-tonne model of its Master Z.E. van.
Series production of the DAF 4×2 tractor and 6×2 rigid vehicles will begin in March 2021 and follows successful in-service trials conducted in Germany and the Netherlands. The CF Electric features a new LFP (Lithium Ferro (iron) Phosphate) battery pack, which offers a single-charge range of up to 136 miles and weight reduction of 700kg. The 350kWh pack can be fully charged in 75 minutes using a 250kW charging infrastructure, helping to provide a range of operational benefits.
DAF stated that by incorporating a full charge into a driver’s mandatory break, the CF Electric was “likely to” provide a full-day operational capability on urban distribution work.
DAF Trucks’ municipal sales manager with responsibility for sale of DAF electric vehicles in the UK, David Price, said, “We are really excited at the prospect of bringing the CF Electric to UK operators. Feedback from a group of demanding customers on the Continent provides encouragement that we have a very capable truck well suited to the UK.”
Renault Trucks’ range expansion is intended to “help customers speed up their transition to clean transport.” Its D and D Wide Z.E. can now be specified with 66kWh battery packs in 5 configurations, providing between 200 and 400kWh, and an operating range of up to 248 miles. The breadth of choice is designed to give operators the ability to select a combination that optimises efficiency for their needs.
Building on its existing 3.1-tonne GVW Master Z.E., Renault Trucks’ new 3.5-tonne model boosts maximum payload to 1.4 tonnes. It provides a real-world operating range of 75 miles and will soon also be available with a platform cab and chassis cab, providing further options to body builders and operators, such as suitability for tipping trailer or lifting tailgate conversions.