As with the rest of the haulage firm’s 22-strong fleet, the XG+ and forthcoming DAF XFs will be fuelled with HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) renewable diesel. All vehicles are supplied by the DAF dealer in Manchester, MOTUS Commercials.
The HVO fuel – an aromatic-free paraffinic diesel marketed as Green D by renewable fuels supplier Green Biofuels – is said to deliver up to 90%, or greater, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions ‘from well-to-wheel’ compared to conventional diesel. Use of HVO or similar GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels require no vehicle modifications nor changes to service intervals.
Steven Singh, who heads up JSP Hauliers alongside his father, Jarnial, and brother, Danny, said, “It’s company policy for us to use HVO fuel in all of our trucks. Although it costs us more than diesel, we’re pleased to play a part in reducing our overall emissions. Because of the sustainability benefits, we also find that its viewed favourably by current and prospective customers who are keen to minimise their own environmental footprint.”
JSP reports that, although the truck has not yet been used on consistent long-distance journeys, the company has seen an initial increase in efficiency and economy over its previous generation DAF XF fleet.
“We were really impressed by the New Generation DAF range when it was launched,” adds Singh, “and I was keen to get one of the first examples into our fleet. It feels like a step above the competition, and you can tell that DAF has taken the time and invested heavily into making it an excellent all-round truck. It’s a great place to be – we’ve all been out in it and are very satisfied.
“From a driver’s perspective, the DAF Digital Vision System we opted for is without doubt one of the very best on the market,” he said, “I’ve used a similar camera system before, and DAF’s is much better. It’s been well designed and stays clear in bad weather, which is crucial.”