Owens adds a dozen DAFs

A dozen DAF XF105 premium tractor units are joining the fleet of the leading South Wales independent operator Owens Road Services under a major renewal programme. The decision to acquire the new trucks stems directly from good experience with DAF 95s in the 350-strong fleet.

Fleet Manager Meirion Davies says that the DAFs are their first with fully automatic transmissions. “By specifying the AS-tronic automatic gearbox we’re aiming to achieve more consistency in driving standards and a reduction in costs related to clutch renewals and failures,” he adds.

“There are likely to be other benefits too, including improved safety because the driver can concentrate more closely on the road ahead without having to worry about gear changing. And we’ll be watching the effect on fuel consumption, which ought to improve as the transmission will always select the correct gear according to the load, road and speed conditions.”

Double-shifting in their first two years means that the trucks, which are FTG XF105 mid-lift axle models, will be worked hard. They’ll be covering around 200,000 kilometres annually hauling tri-axle curtainsiders carrying everything from steel to foodstuffs throughout the UK and with some Continental runs. After two years they’re likely to be moved onto less demanding work involving lower mileages.

Owens have opted for the 460 bhp (340 kW) rating of the 12.9 litre MX engine in their 105s. At 44 tonnes this gives a comfortable 10.45 bhp per tonne power to weight, which will help maintain good average speeds and contribute to fuel economy. With up to 2300 Nm of torque in a band between 1000 and 1410 rpm, the engine has plenty of torque to get the truck moving easily.

Driver comfort was also a key consideration and as well as specifying the AS-tronic automated transmission, the company has chosen the DAF Space Cab. This offers comfortable driving and sleeping conditions for the driver, with features that include air conditioning, an auxiliary cab heater, ample storage space and a wide bunk.

The 105s will be based at Owen’s Llanelli headquarters and other sites in South Wales along the M4 corridor. Routine servicing and maintenance will be carried out in-house in the company’s well-equipped workshops. Supplying dealer Swansea DAF will undertake any warranty work and provide ongoing parts support.

Owens Road Services has been in business for over 36 years and is a member of the Road Haulage Association, Freight Transport Association and the Transport Association. It is also part of the PalletFORCE network for south and south west Wales.