DAF Trucks’ New Generation XD and XF Electric models received the International Truck of the Year 2026 award at the Solutrans exhibition in Lyon, France. The recognition marks DAF’s third win in five years, following awards for the New Generation XF/XG/XG+ and XD in 2022 and 2023. A jury of 23 commercial vehicle journalists from across Europe selected the vehicles based on contributions to road transport efficiency.
Highlights
- Award criteria: Jury evaluated technological innovation, comfort, safety, drivability, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and Total Cost of Ownership
- Technical architecture: Central electric motor with traditional rear axle configuration provides weight distribution and platform flexibility across use cases
- Zero-emission range: 4×2 and 6×2 configurations achieve over 500 kilometers per charge, with potential for 1,000 kilometers daily through charging optimization
- Power options: PACCAR EX-D1 and EX-D2 e-motors deliver 170 kW (230 hp) to 350 kW (480 hp) with modular battery packs from 210 to 525 kWh
Jury Assessment and Technical Evaluation
The jury recognized the XD and XF Electric series for energy efficiency, driveline refinement, and technical architecture. Test drives revealed imperceptible gear changes and a modular vehicle concept offering multiple battery and axle configurations.
“With the new XD and XF Electric, DAF Trucks demonstrates that the combination of a central electric motor and a traditional rear axle can be at least as energy-efficient as a driveline with an e-axle,” stated Florian Engel, chairman of the International Truck of the Year jury.
The configuration enables weight distribution that supports diverse applications through a single technical platform. Jury members noted the vehicles’ long driving ranges and LFP battery technology implementation.
Technical Specifications and Applications
The electric truck series targets city distribution, regional operations, and long-distance applications. Design elements include:
- Aerodynamic optimization: Low cab position and streamlined bodywork
- Visibility systems: Ultra-low window beltlines and digital camera systems
- Tractor and rigid configurations: 4×2 and 6×2 axle arrangements
- Battery modularity: 210 kWh to 525 kWh capacity options
PACCAR’s EX-D1 and EX-D2 electric motors provide the powertrain foundation, with output ranging from 170 kW to 350 kW depending on configuration.
Selection Process and Criteria
The International Truck of the Year organization awards the title annually to vehicles introduced in the previous 12 months that demonstrate the greatest contribution to road transport efficiency. The 23-member jury represents commercial vehicle media outlets across European markets.
Assessment categories encompass technological innovation, operator comfort, safety systems, vehicle drivability, energy consumption, environmental impact, and Total Cost of Ownership calculations. Jury members conduct extensive test drives as part of the evaluation process.
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