[Job Story] DAF XD Electric Set for Delivery in the UK

Grundon, an English family-owned waste collection and recycling company, is taking delivery of a range of XD models, including multiaxle rigids for various operations, and four XD Electric 28-tonners for delivery in September. The company already acquired a New-Gen DAF XD 8×4 Boughton hook-loader body.

“The XD is going to be a key vehicle for us,” he says, “it’s a truck that offers a robust platform for future technological development, offering exceptional visibility and safety features that are crucial for our urban operations. With their straight-out-of-the-box DVS ratings, the XD and XD Electric will future-proof the business, putting us in a really good place up to 2030 and beyond.”

says Stephen Townsend, Group Fleet Engineer at Grundon.

The most recent DAF XD 450 eight-wheel 32-tonner with Boughton hook-loader bodywork was acquired by Grundon due to the XD’s ability to deliver a 4-Star Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating ex-factory; credentials not possible with Grundon’s previous, yet very popular, DAF CF model. The XD 450 features DAF’s ‘FAD’ 8×4 axle configuration and a 10.8-litre, 450bhp engine.

Also on order are four zero-emissions DAF XD Electric 28-tonne GVW 6×2 rigids powered by 420-kW battery packs, for delivery in September. The DAF XD Electric quartet feature DAF’s ‘FAN’ 6×2 rear-steering axle set-up, achieving the maximum 5-Star DVS rating. Three further diesel-powered XD rigids are on order for 2025, including a three-seat skip-loader for use as a driver training vehicle. All new DAF vehicles are being supplied by DAF Dealer, Channel Commercials.

“The new XD eight-wheeler also marks an important return to DAF for us, the truck’s 4-Star-rated direct vision is outstanding, especially with its well-appointed, big cab that drivers really appreciate. We’re really excited at the prospect of the DAF Electric models – they’re going to fit in seamlessly with our commitment to decarbonising our vehicle fleet. Importantly. Aftersales support from DAF and Channel Commercials is excellent. Their priority is to maintain uptime and keep our trucks on the road. It’s a true partnership.”

concludes Stephen Townsend.