The factory has two sub-assembly lines: one for preparing the battery packs and one for assembling the 'Electric Drive Module'.
DAF's completely new factory for battery-electric trucks was officially opened today by Micky Adriaansens, Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate. The new assembly line has been realized at DAF's largest production location in Eindhoven and plays an important role in further strengthening DAF's leading position in supplying sustainable transport solutions.
The new DAF Electric Truck Assembly has an area of 5,000 m2. The factory has two sub-assembly lines: one for preparing the battery packs and one for assembling the 'Electric Drive Module'. This consists of the front battery pack, the relay box for connecting the high-voltage systems and all necessary electrical auxiliary systems. These main components, together with the e-motor with integrated gearbox, are mounted on the chassis on the nearly 150-metre long main line.
“DAF has been a leader in making trucks for years. DAF is also leading the way with innovations in the step towards electric driving. The transition to cleaner production and products is important. Not only for the environment, it also ensures that we remain competitive in the Netherlands. This new factory for battery-electric trucks is a great example of this.”
Latest generation of battery electric trucks
DAF has built the Electric Truck Assembly for the production of its latest generation of battery electric trucks. The DAF XD and XF Electric are available in different axle configurations. They are powered by PACCAR e-Motors and equipped with 2 to 5 battery packs (210 to 525 kWh), good for a range of up to 500 kilometers. Thanks to this modular design, the trucks can be precisely tailored to the wishes of the customer. By carefully planning routes and recharging the batteries, it is possible to cover 1.000 'zero emission' kilometers per day. When using fast charging (up to 350 kW), the battery packs can be recharged to 45% in just 80 minutes. Production of vehicles for quality validation will start shortly; the start of series production of customer vehicles is planned for the summer. DAF expects production to increase to thousands of vehicles per year in the near future, in line with the increasing demand for fully electric trucks, according to the company. manufacturer of commercial vehicles.
“The commissioning of the new DAF Electric Truck Assembly is another important step towards an even cleaner future. To optimally support our customers in the transition to 'zero emission' road transport, we go beyond supplying first-class, fully electric trucks. Our complete package also includes a wide range of charging stations, 'tailor-made' advice on route planning and charging, and the provision of specific training to help drivers get the best out of their electric vehicles.”
Photo center and top: DAF image bank.
