The DAF XF 106 truck tractor is manufactured in the Netherlands and is the leader of the Trucks NV line. It is capable of transporting goods over long distances; one of the areas of application is international transport. The machine is also in demand in the construction industry, and thanks to the large number of add-ons, it can be used in other areas.
Models released later than 2013 are equipped with a high-quality power plant and an improved exhaust cleaning system. This made it possible to ensure the low toxicity of the latter and achieve the requirements of the Euro-6 standard. To improve the technical characteristics, the manufacturer of the DAF 106 tractor provided for reducing the weight of the car and installing a new engine.
The truck is used as a delivery vehicle for transporting large loads over long distances. This guarantees ease of use and maneuverability on Russian roads. The technique is also popular in Europe.
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Features and Benefits
The advantages of the DAF 106 include:
- air suspension, comfortable interior with a berth, refrigerator, high-quality electrical system, cruise control;
- the presence of a tire pressure indicator, which reduces tire wear and allows you to monitor indicators through the on-board computer;
- economical mode that can reduce fuel consumption by 10%;
- DPA tracking system, which more accurately determines the time of arrival of the car at its destination;
- comfortable chairs;
- reliable braking system of the DAF XF 106 truck tractor, the efficiency of which has increased by 20%;
- 16-speed manual transmission;
- engine with a power of 412-510 hp and a volume of 12.9 liters, improved camshaft and fuel supply system;
- economical in terms of fuel consumption, environmentally friendly exhaust (Euro-6).
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Degree of trust
Every year it becomes more and more difficult to grasp the nuances of behavior on the road and the optional equipment of the mainline tractors of the European “Big Seven”. While maintaining several family features and experimenting in the field of design and interior, the main manufacturers offer cars that are very similar in equipment and set of properties. The differences become visible later, during long-term operation, when, in addition to convenience, design and controllability, cost of ownership becomes an important indicator of efficiency. In a short test, you can only examine the features of a particular design and direct the potential consumer in the right direction of the “harmony formula”: each specific car must correspond to its specific owner. Many well-known brands, in order to fit their product within a competitive price, sacrifice something in the name of reliability (Mercedes-Benz - Autor), safety (Volvo - Autor) or handling (IVECO - Autor). DAF advertising campaigns have never singled out its outstanding properties in any of these disciplines, but this does not mean that the car turned out to be mediocre.
The choice of a long-haul tractor ultimately should not depend on the quality of the genuine leather with which the steering wheel is covered, but new products of recent years have taught us not to leave such moments without attention, making the truck cabin a work of art and an example of finishing. This is not the case in the new DAF. Everything is solid and neat, still comfortable and functional, but there was no doubt that I was in the cab of a truck, nor was there a desire to compare it with the interior of a car. I will only note good sound insulation.
Busy with such thoughts, I didn’t even notice that I had driven a couple of tens of kilometers on the “water truck” I had chosen. The automated AS Tronic gearbox quietly did its job, and the local terrain and low traffic intensity made it possible to practically not use the working brake system. Having accelerated down the hill, I slightly slowed down the road train with a motor retarder, so that I could then intensively accelerate up the ascent. And then the truck decided to “talk” to me using the on-board computer. The display gave me a five-star rating for negotiating a bunch of inclines without using the brake pedal. In general, all these estimates have priority in relation to fuel economy, so you shouldn’t trust them too much: there are situations that are more complex and multifaceted, especially on our Russian roads.
Technical characteristics and dimensions
Technical characteristics of DAF 106:
| maximum vertical load | 28 t; |
| rear overhang | 0.99 m; |
| wheelbase | 3.8 m; |
| drive unit | 4x2; |
| SSU height | 1.35 m; |
| front/rear axle load | 8/13 t; |
| speed | 90 km/h; |
| fridge | 42 l; |
| weight as part of a road train | 55 t; |
| lifting capacity | 40 t. |
The dimensions of the car are 8.62 m x 2.49 m x 3.7 m.
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Engine
The advantages of the PACCAR MX–13 engine include high environmental friendliness. The exhaust quality of the 12.9-liter engine complies with Euro-5 or Euro-6 requirements. The standard assembly of the 460-horsepower unit includes the installation of an SCR system, which reduces fuel consumption, increases torque and improves the quality of the fuel supply system. Service intervals have been increased to 150 thousand km. When using a centrifugal filter and synthetic oil, this gap can be increased to 180 thousand km.
| Motor installation | PACCAR MX-13 |
| Power | 460 hp |
| Volume | 12.9 l |
The AdBlue additive tank has a capacity of 90 liters.
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Uphill and downhill
With the new model overcoming the rise, not everything is going smoothly, if not failure. To be honest, I could not understand where the error lies. Either the gear ratio of the main pair was incorrectly selected, or the new engine was too “squeezed” in pursuit of low toxicity, but with 510 “horses” and 2500 N∙m of torque, albeit in a narrow rev range by today’s standards (1000– 1425 rpm), well, the engine shouldn’t “sour” so much towards the top of the climb. Sometimes the speed dropped to a shameful 40 km, to the displeasure of the rare drivers of passing trucks, even when at the bottom there were all 80 km/h.
The hood opening lever, under which there are necks for adding oil and antifreeze, and you can also visually assess the condition of the cabin air filter and, if necessary, replace it
In order to understand the situation, I asked for a car with a manual transmission for comparison, fortunately, there was such an opportunity. At first I was somewhat puzzled by the not entirely standard gear selection scheme: the lever operates as standard for four moves with two flags, but after 1st or 5th gear the sequential move is not in the opposite direction, but to the right and forward. Lever travel and selectivity are acceptable, but not standard. I managed to get used to it quite quickly - the clutch pedal is light and informative, and here I am again storming the ill-fated climb. The habit of “jumping” through one or several gears, at worst “halves” on powerful engines, let me down. I stood up in the middle of the climb.
Then I sequentially accelerated, going through all 16 combinations, and as soon as I tried to “cheat”, the sound of the “choking” engine demanded that I immediately turn it down. Alas, the elasticity of the engine leaves much to be desired. In order not to scare away the reader who is looking closely at cars of this brand today, I will say that my comments are fair regarding the ideal, desired characteristics - you can work well and for a long time on this car, I just wish it was a little better... DAF representatives then explained to me that The new range of trucks has a wide choice of gear ratios of the main pair (up to 2.38) - the wish of European buyers, after all, not everyone needs to carry heavy loads, and fuel is expensive, and this vehicle has a long “flat” main pair.
The automated test vehicle was equipped with an MX single-position engine retarder. It works great, the steering column control lever is conveniently located. But sometimes you wait for the system to operate a little longer than you would like, panicking a little, and your foot begins to reach for the service brake pedal, and then the long-awaited deceleration appears and gradually increases. But, despite this remark, the knot seemed to me the most successful compared to its competitors!
Device
The DAF IKS F 106 device guarantees a high level of safety. The windows are made in the form of solid elements, and the mirrors have an improved design. The main and wide-angle mirrors are installed at a distance from each other, which eliminates the appearance of a blind spot. The wide-angle mirror is quite large, and on the passenger side it is offset towards the body, which creates a minimal amount of invisible areas.
Systems are installed:
- VSC – directional stability, preventing rollover;
- ACC – adaptive cruise control (optional);
- FCW – forward collision warning (optional);
- AEBS - emergency braking (standard since 2013).
The latter system is capable of completely stopping the DAF 106 tractor in an emergency, even if the driver is unable to control the vehicle. The instrument panel is equipped with energy-absorbing zones, which eliminates the risk of injury to the driver. The cabin suspension has similar safety ratings, and it is also reinforced in the most dangerous areas. In the event of an impact, the suspension remains on the chassis, but moves along it towards the body.
The modern cabin design is not only attractive, it has improved aerodynamic properties. New chassis fairings, wings, mudguards, and a height-adjustable spoiler are installed on the car. When driving the DAF 106 in wet weather, the mirrors and handles remain clean, due to the improved design.
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DAF has never set out to be the first to market a Euro 6 vehicle. Instead, in developing Euro 6 technologies, every effort has been made to create a product that is as efficient, practical, well-designed and of exceptional quality as possible. This approach has resulted in a truck that builds on the success of previous XF generations but has been completely redesigned to maximize efficiency. The new XF must also provide the highest levels of driver comfort, and for this reason DAF has made a conscious decision to build on the proven XF105 cab concept - with industry-leading space and practicality - and make no concessions in the new design. .
New XF: the best truck to own
- New Euro 6 PACCAR MX-13 engines: Rated maximum mileage 1.6 million km
- Low fuel consumption according to Euro 5 ATe standard
- Maximum performance: torque up to 2500 Nm at low engine speeds
- The increase in the total weight of the new Euro 6 engines is limited to <90 kg
- Sophisticated chassis layout
- Service intervals up to 150,000 km
Based on the reliable and efficient 12.9 liter PACCAR MX engines, which have proven themselves both in Europe and the USA, DAF has developed a new generation of Euro 6 compliant engines. The PACCAR MX-13 engines are characterized by a combination of proven advanced technologies and a large number of innovative solutions. They use common rail fuel injection technology, a variable geometry turbocharger and an exhaust gas recirculation system. The advanced exhaust aftertreatment system with DeNOx catalytic converter and active diesel particulate filter (DPF) has been developed to achieve maximum efficiency and low fuel consumption by ensuring optimal exhaust gas temperature and composition in any operating mode. Thus, instead of active regeneration, passive regeneration is used whenever possible.
The new PACCAR MX-13 Euro 6 engine has several versions: 300 kW/410 hp, 340 kW/460 hp. and 375 kW/510 hp. - with high torque levels from 2000 to 2500 Nm, available in a wide range of engine speeds (1000–1425 rpm). A key principle in the development of the new transmission was to maintain low fuel consumption at the level of Euro 5 ATe engines without reducing service life (rated maximum range of 1.6 million km) and without increasing vehicle downtime (service intervals up to 150,000 km).
The Euro 6 PACCAR MX engines will be equipped with modified manual and semi-automatic 12- and 16-speed gearboxes produced by ZF for the PACCAR group. New features for semi-automatic transmissions include EcoRoll and Fast Shift, which improve driving comfort and reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The same applies to the new rear axles with updated final drive ratios with increased spacing for lower engine speeds.
Optimized weight for high load capacity
Complying with Euro 6 regulations means that a significant amount of additional technology must be used - which increases the weight of the car. To reduce weight as much as possible while maintaining high payload and low fuel consumption, new chassis layouts and efficient solutions were used.
For road trains weighing up to 44 tons with a torque of up to 2300 Nm, a new, even lighter rear axle has been introduced. The Stabilink type suspension with anti-roll bar helps reduce weight and provides a high level of stability and excellent handling. The use of a new fifth-wheel mounting plate and intelligently positioned battery compartments also result in reduced vehicle weight. The new steering gear, housed in a multi-function cast housing, eliminates the need to install a separate steering gear assembly. There are countless more examples of weight optimization in the new XF, including a new roof spoiler. The end result of all these changes is that the total weight of the standard XF 4x2 Euro 6 tractor is just 90kg more than its XF105 Euro 5 counterpart.
In pursuit of the best possible efficiency, DAF has focused on providing the best possible layout of the components of the all-new chassis. A standard 90 liter AdBlue tank (a 140 liter tank is available as an option) is located under the cab, and the battery compartment can be mounted on the rear underside of the chassis. Placing the DeNOx system and particulate filter in a single unit allows for a fuel tank capacity of up to 1,500 liters for maximum operating range, filling the tank where fuel prices are lowest.
DAF has also taken a number of additional measures to reduce vulnerability, thereby further optimizing the vehicle's availability and efficiency. Examples include shatterproof Lexan glass for the front and fog lights, a new galvanized steel bumper, new rear mud flaps and a modified chassis end cross member.
Advanced Transport Efficiency Program
With the new XF, DAF introduces a number of innovations that are ideally combined with the Advanced Transport Efficiency (ATe) program to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Examples include an optimized cooling system (which means less fan use), PACCAR gearboxes made by ZF, new rear axle ratios and the use of smooth cruise control, which gradually returns the car to the previously set speed.
The Driver Performance Assistant is another great example of the ATe DAF software being put into practice. The central display of the instrument panel provides detailed information on the amount of fuel consumed, evaluates the driver's actions and braking performance. In addition, messages automatically appear on the information screen that also help improve driving efficiency, for example by advising the driver to shift to a higher gear. The central display provides driver guidance on how to save fuel and reduce operating costs by maintaining the correct tire pressure and correct spoiler position. The driver's attention is also drawn to the importance of turning off the air conditioning system in a timely manner and preventing the engine from idling for too long.
New XF: the driver's best truck
- Designed for maximum driver comfort New seats, new steering wheel, new instrument panel with new display and new switches and cup holders provide the best possible working environment
- Unsurpassed interior design for market-leading comfort
- Even larger beds provide the highest level of comfort while relaxing
- Solid door windows
Best for the driver
The high level of driver comfort is noticeable from the moment you step inside the new XF. Thanks to the clever placement of the engine and cooling system on the chassis, the height of the cab floor remains virtually unchanged, rising only 3 cm to a comfortable height of 1.47 m. As a result, entry and exit from the cab is achieved using just three aluminum steps, which are now arranged in the shape of a staircase. Thanks to its low floor, the XF Super Space Cab is the roomiest cab on the market, with a total volume of no less than 12.6 m3. The low floor also contributes to excellent visibility from the cab.
The XF's interior features many improvements. New seats with a very wide range of adjustment provide an even greater level of comfort. The pedal layout has changed with the addition of an outboard brake pedal, ensuring maximum ease of operation and ample space in the footwell.
The steering wheel has been redesigned, as well as the central information panel on the dashboard, which has new functionality and is equipped with a new TFT color screen. The screen is large in size and has high clarity, making it easy to work with. The dashboard design has also been redesigned with the addition of attractive aluminum inserts around the dials. New, easy-to-see switches, regrouped according to their function, make the controls easier to operate. Other new features include two cup holders mounted in the center of the dashboard and even a trash can next to the driver. The door panels have also been redesigned. They can be additionally equipped with aluminum inserts, which are also used in the dashboard trim on the co-driver's side. DAF has increased the market-leading level of comfort while relaxing in its cabs by increasing the size of the lower mattress (160 mm high) to 2.20 m. There is also a new multifunction panel on the rear wall with lighting and space for luggage.
Convenient and safe
Maximum safety was another priority when developing the new DAF XF. This is why door windows are made in one piece. Even the configuration of the mirrors has been carefully thought out: space has been specially designed between the main and wide-angle mirrors to ensure excellent direct vision. The wide-angle mirror has a larger surface area, and the co-driver side mirrors have been moved rearward, creating additional space between the A-pillar and the mirror housing, which helps reduce the number of blind spots.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), which prevents collapse and rollover, is standard. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) are available as optional equipment. An Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) will be available in 2013. This system brings the vehicle to a complete stop without driver intervention if necessary in an emergency. The instrument panel is equipped with energy-absorbing zones to prevent injuries (such as knees) in the event of a collision.
Also important in terms of safety is the new energy-absorbing cab suspension, as well as a reinforced cab structure with pre-calculated front and rear deformation zones. The suspension has been designed so that in the event of a frontal collision, the cabin remains attached to the chassis, but moves rearward, thereby being less exposed to the impact.
New appearance: practical and attractive
- Strong and elegant design thanks to new upper and lower radiator grilles and distinctive chrome panel with DAF logo
- Air flows optimized for cooling system performance and reduced fuel consumption
- New galvanized steel bumper
- Completely redesigned lighting system New LED headlights: a first in the truck industry
- Daytime running lights (LED) and cornering lights
DAF's new flagship features a bold yet elegant appearance, achieved through a complete redesign of the front end with a smooth, attractive transition from the top half to the bottom. The prominent grille with stylish aluminum inserts significantly contributes to the optimization of air flow, which is important for both aerodynamic properties and the engine cooling system; as a result, fuel consumption is significantly reduced.
The bumper design also contributes to the truck's aerodynamics and engine cooling system - plus it's made of galvanized steel for reduced vulnerability.
The larger number plate and chrome panel with the DAF logo below the windscreen are particularly noticeable, as are the new headlights. DAF was the first in its industry to use LED lamp technology (optional) to increase lighting power and safety, as well as to increase service life and reduce energy consumption. Also new are “cornering lights,” which illuminate the road when the car turns and thereby reduce the risk of accidents. Daytime running lights (LED) provide increased daytime visibility.
Aerodynamic properties are also key to the new design, including new chassis fairings, fenders, mud flaps and a new roof spoiler for the XF Space Cab. The driver can quickly and easily adjust the spoiler height. The mudguards and fenders have been completely redesigned, as have the corner fairings on both sides of the front of the cabin, which direct airflow so that the mirrors and door handles remain clear.
With the introduction of the new XF, DAF builds on the reputation of its market-leading XF105, a truck highly regarded by hauliers and drivers alike. The new XF sets a new benchmark in terms of the efficient implementation of Euro 6 technologies. It features an improved powertrain and an all-new, intelligent chassis design, as well as many other improvements that reduce the vehicle's weight. In addition, we have once again taken driver comfort to the next level by redesigning the cabin's interior space, improving handling, delivering first-class handling characteristics and ensuring a high level of safety. The new XF is the best XF ever.
Transmission
The DAF HF 106 truck tractor is equipped with a 16-speed AS Tronic gearbox with Hill Start Aid function, which allows you to climb a slope immediately after stopping. This helps the truck rise up even when loaded to its maximum. The box has a top gear (numbers 15.86-1.0). The gearbox is characterized by high efficiency and a large number of auxiliary systems, which increases engine wear resistance.
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Exhaust treatment technologies
To meet the stringent Euro 6 emissions requirements, DAF uses several after-treatment technologies, such as the SCR catalytic converter and an active particulate filter. The goal is to create an optimal temperature in the filter for maximum passive regeneration of accumulated soot particles. For this purpose, the exhaust manifold and the most important parts of the exhaust system were isolated. If the exhaust gas temperature is still too low in any situation, the engine will switch to active regeneration when the diesel particulate filter is filled. To achieve this, a seventh injector was installed in the engine between the turbocharger and the particulate filter. It injects fuel into the oxidation catalytic converter, which is located in the exhaust system in front of the filter, to create the required temperature. The SCR catalytic converter also serves to maintain optimal temperatures. Thanks to its special coating, it provides maximum efficiency over a wide temperature range. This means the engine can operate at its most efficient. This ensures that the maximum amount of exhaust gas reaches the SCR catalytic converter at the correct temperature.
Driver's cabin
The DAF 106 is equipped with one of two cab options:
- height 1.74 m;
- 2.11 m high, equipped with a large sleeping bag.
When designing the cabin, all the wishes of the operators were taken into account, which ensured the maximum level of comfort and safety. The DAF 106 interior has a large number of compartments for storing things and small parts that make the interior more comfortable and functional.
The upholstery of the chair is leather and fabric, the seats are equipped with lateral support and air suspension. This ensures reduced vibration and dynamic impacts. The cab is equipped with parking locks that reduce the risk of vandalism.
Standard assembly involves installing:
- a filter for cleaning the air entering the cabin;
- electric windows;
- air conditioner;
- monitor in the interior of the DAF 106 tractor;
- heater;
- connector for connecting to the mains.
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Steering and instrument panel
Compared to previous models, the steering wheel has become more comfortable. The central information panel has also been redesigned and now features a color screen. It is characterized by rather large dimensions, and the information on it remains visible even in direct sunlight.
Aluminum inserts have been added around the dials, giving the dashboard an attractive appearance. The ease of operation of the DAF XF 106 tractor unit has been improved by rearranging the main switches. Also included in this model are cup holders and a trash can.
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Don't get used to it and don't get used to it
In order to accommodate the larger cooling systems of modern engines that meet Euro 6 emissions standards, many manufacturers have had to extensively redesign the frame, or even redesign the cabin. This led to a significant increase in costs, and some solutions, applied under tight time pressure before the introduction of new eco-standards, seem very controversial. Here, at first glance, everything remains as it was. Older generation truck drivers, wary of everything new, will be happy to note the well-known interior with traditional paired round dials on the dashboard, the instrument panel wrapping around the driver's seat, and the parking brake valve under the right arm.
On the outside, there are much more differences from previous models, as well as in the engine compartment. The large matte black radiator grille with aluminum inserts and chrome center panel with the DAF logo immediately catches the eye, while the windshield pillars are now virtually devoid of slope. But the most noticeable thing is the new head optics integrated into the bumper with built-in air flow guides - an inevitable consequence of the increased demands for improved engine cooling. The new headlight units come standard with H7 halogen bulbs and integrated daytime running lights (4 LED bulbs). The new XF also features LED headlights - a first in the truck industry.
Brake system
The system works in conjunction with the retarder and handbrake. An option is to install auxiliary systems:
- EBS – electronic dual-circuit braking system of pneumatic type;
- ABS – anti-lock braking system;
- SMR – engine braking regulator.
DAF HF 106 brake units are equipped with ventilated discs, an air compressor and a heater. By installing an improved system, the maximum level of safety and reduction of braking distance is ensured.
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Innovations do not come at the expense of traditions and habits
The new DAF XF does not immediately shower its driver with a stream of innovations and high technologies, unlike most competitors, but technically it does not lag behind them. How did he do it? Very simple, but only at first glance. Everything a modern tractor needs is present here: a modern fuel system, multi-stage exhaust gas neutralization, and electronic safety and comfort systems are not forgotten. But the clear and traditional DAF still communicates with the driver, as if hiding its technical advantages somewhere under the cabin or on the frame in order to unobtrusively show off them at the right time. Is it bad? As for shortcomings, everyone has them; it is much more important to turn to the above-mentioned automotive “harmony formula”...
How much does it cost?
The price of a new DAF 106 is about 5-7 million rubles. A used car can be purchased for 2.4-3.1 million rubles if it was produced in 11/14.
You can rent replacement equipment for 12,000 rubles.
Compared to its predecessor, the efficiency in terms of fuel consumption was 5%. At the same time, comfort and ease of operation have increased many times over. These and other advantages ensure high demand for the truck.
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