Canute commits to deal for a dozen DAFs07 June 2011

Canute Group has added 12 DAF XF105 tractor units to its 600 commercial vehicle fleet in order to evaluate the whole life cost of running the trucks.

The vehicles are the 6x2 mid-lift axle FTG model, powered by the 12.9-litre MX engine, rated at 460bhp and delivering 2,300Nm of torque between 1,000 and 1,410rpm.

The logistics company's new tractor units have been specified with the DAF Super Space cab with skylights faired into the roofline, Combi lights integrated into the bumper and a full air management kit fitted.

A 525-litre aluminium fuel tank was also requested, as well as a sliding fifth wheel, an extra long catwalk and axle load monitoring.

The XF105s are the first DAF tractive units to be operated by Canute since 1985. The decision to introduce the model into its heavy fleet was based on previous positive experience, says regional operations director Iain Brown.

The company already has five 7.5 tonne DAF LF45s, which have entered service over the past four years and Brown says he has enjoyed a good working relationship with the supplying dealer Lancashire DAF.

"We need to take a long term view of the cost of operating our vehicles. This evaluation is about determining the whole life costs of the 105 against other competitor tractor units," explains Brown.

"Fuel and AdBlue usage are going to be key factors and at 460bhp we have an ample power to weight ratio of almost 10.5bhp/tonne, which should contribute to good fuel efficiency. We are also expecting that the high specification will lead to decent residual prices when we move them on in five years time," he adds.

Author
Brian Tinham

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