DAF’s New Generation XF, XG, and XG+ have been elected International Truck of the Year 2022 by a jury of 24 commercial vehicle editors and senior journalists, representing 24 major trucking magazines from throughout Europe.
The prestigious award was handed over to Harry Wolters, president of DAF Trucks, during the press day of the Solutrans Commercial Vehicle and Bodybuilder Show in Lyon, France.
With a winning score of 150 votes, the Dutch long-haul heavy-duty truck range fought off the challenge posed by Iveco’s recently launched T-Way construction series and Mercedes-Benz’s second-generation battery-electric eActros.
Based on the International Truck of the Year rules, the annual award is presented to the truck introduced into the market in the previous 12 months, which has made the most significant contribution to road transport efficiency. This judgement relies on several critical criteria, including technological innovation, comfort, safety, driveability, fuel economy, environmental ‘footprint,’ and Total Cost of Ownership.
Taking full advantage of the EU’s new mass and dimension regulations, DAF has created a truck range that dramatically improves aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, active and passive safety, and comfort for the driver.
During recent extended test drives in Spain and central Europe, the ITOY jury members appreciated the excellent visibility provided by a large, curved windscreen, side windows with low beltlines and the kerb-view window. These features – along with the digital vision system that replaces the traditional rear mirrors and the new corner view camera – offer excellent all-around visibility, protecting vulnerable road users.
The ITOY journalists also praised the performance of the new highly efficient powertrains, based on the Paccar MX-11 and MX-13 engines, coupled with TraXon automated gearbox, and the advanced features of predictive cruise control with extended Eco-roll functionalities.
“With the introduction of the New Generation, DAF has delivered a high-tech heavy-duty truck range that sets a new benchmark in the truck industry,” said International Truck of the Year chairman Gianenrico Griffini.
“In addition, it is future-oriented, as it also represents a complete platform for new generations of alternative drivelines.”
