DAF expands electric truck range with additional axle configurations
DAF is expanding its electric truck portfolio with new variants. The recently launched heavy-duty models, XD Electric and XF Electric, are currently available as 4×2 tractor units and rigid trucks, or as 6×2 trucks with a steered front or trailing axle. During the launch, the Dutch manufacturer announced plans to expand the range with additional axle configurations by 2026. The same applies to the recently announced XG and XG+ Electric, which mirror the heavy-duty duo technically but feature more comfortable cabs for long-distance transport. Initially, these models will be available as 4×2 tractor units and 6×2 trucks with a steered trailing axle.
All electric trucks are produced at DAF’s Eindhoven plant and are battery-electric versions of model ranges previously available only with internal combustion engines. According to the Dutch manufacturer, the electric versions were considered from the outset during development. As a result, they are set to elevate DAF’s fully electric transport solutions to a new level. Technically, they deliver power outputs ranging from 170 to 350 kW, thanks to electric motors from parent company Paccar (D1 or D2), with LFP battery options ranging from 210 to 525 kWh (two to five packs). The top configuration, featuring five battery packs, is designed to provide a range of over 500 kilometres. DAF specifies a DC charging capacity of 325 kW.
This foundational setup also applies to the new electric truck variants, which DAF presents as battery-electric alternatives for ‘specific applications and the construction industry.’ The new chassis are available for both the XD and XF Electric, as well as the new XG and XG+ Electric. Here’s a brief overview:
- As FTG and FTN Electric, DAF is introducing 6×2 tractor units with a steered pusher or trailing axle. The manufacturer positions these new variants as ideal for ‘heavy-duty distribution applications’ and ‘maximum yard friendliness and manoeuvrability.’ The FTG and FTN Electric will be available with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of up to 50 tonnes.
- The new FAS Electric is a 6×2 truck with a trailing axle, specifically designed for tippers and applications involving demountable container systems. It features a 10-tonne double trailing axle and offers a GVW of up to 28 tonnes.
- With the FAT and FAW Electric, DAF is also expanding its range to include 6×4 and 8×4 trucks with a double-driven tandem axle. These are suited for heavy-duty applications in the construction sector.
DAF emphasises that the new multi-axle and double-drive models now provide a zero-emission solution for nearly all transport applications. Jeroen van den Oetelaar, Member of the Board and Head of Product Development, highlights that the new variants ‘feature the same distinctive DNA as the current series of New Generation DAF trucks.’ “As a result, they are also setting the standard in their segment with regard to safety, comfort and ease of use. Thanks to the very wide range of models, cabs, engines and chassis, DAF is able to offer tailor-made solutions for every transport application, including electric.”
Regarding the FTG chassis for 6×2 tractor units, the manufacturer specifies that it can be equipped with either a steered or non-steered pusher axle, while the FTN always features a steered trailing axle. “This makes the FTG suitable for heavy-duty distribution applications, as well as – for instance – the transport of construction materials. The steered pusher axle also guarantees the highest level of yard friendliness,” DAF states. The FTN chassis, on the other hand, excels in applications requiring high payload capacity combined with high manoeuvrability, such as urban distribution. With a GVW of up to 50 tonnes, these tractor units can also support extra-long road trains (‘EcoCombis’). Both 6×2 tractor units are technically equipped with the D2 motor, offering a power range of 270 to 350 kW. The FTG comes standard with three battery packs (315 kWh), while the FTN offers three to five packs (315–525 kWh).
Another newcomer is the FAS Electric, a 6×2 truck with a trailing axle and a GVW of up to 28 tonnes. Its standout feature is a double-mounted trailing axle with a 10-tonne load capacity, making it ideal for tippers and trucks with demountable container systems, where the entire load weight temporarily rests on the third axle during loading and unloading, as DAF explains. An optional liftable third axle is available to reduce energy consumption and tyre wear. The FAS Electric can be equipped with either the D1 or D2 motor, delivering 170 to 350 kW depending on the configuration. Battery options range from three to five packs (315–525 kWh).
Finally, the new FAT and FAW Electric: the former is a 6×4 truck, while the latter is an 8×4 truck, both featuring a double-driven rear axle. Such axle configurations are particularly sought after in the construction industry or other demanding applications. Both versions are equipped with a 21-tonne tandem drive axle, available with single or hub reduction, leaf or air suspension. The 6×4 FAT is also available with DAF’s lighter 19-tonne tandem drive axle and offers a GVW of up to 29 tonnes – making it ‘more than suitable for tipper and concrete mixer applications.’
The FAW, with its 8×4 configuration, supports a GVW of up to 37 tonnes. It also features a steered trailing axle behind the double-driven rear axle and is designed to support applications such as ‘tipper applications and demountable container systems in combination with a crane, as well as for the transport of large volumes of sand, gravel and asphalt.’ Both the FAT and FAW Electric can be equipped with the D1 or D2 motor (170–350 kW) and three to five battery packs (315–525 kWh).
Importantly, the 6×4 FAT is also available as a dedicated construction vehicle – specifically in the XDC and XFC versions. These models feature increased ground clearance of up to 40 centimetres (depending on tyre size) and a 25-degree approach angle. Additionally, the XDC and XFC Electric stand out with a robust radiator grille, steel radiator protection, bumpers with integrated LED lighting, and an optional flexible step.
In general, the batteries in DAF’s new electric truck generation can be flexibly positioned, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of bodywork configurations. Optionally, the vehicles can be equipped with a 650-volt ePTO in 25 kW, 60 kW, or 100 kW versions – for example, to power refrigeration or tipper bodies.
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