Babcock is making inroads in Mpumalanga with the new DAF XF trucks following the highly anticipated launch of the trucks earlier this year. The iconic Mbombela Stadium will be the backdrop for the handover of 35 DAF XF 480 trucks on 26 October to VR Cargo, one of the region’s most prominent logistics operators for mining commodities.

VR Cargo is known for its pioneering approach and has taken the lead in mining logistics in Mpumalanga. Attracted by the new DAF trucks’ fuel economy combined with personalised service from the Babcock team and sales executive Fayyaz Adam, VR Cargo has purchased a total of 80 new DAF XF 480 trucks, 10 of which were delivered in September, and the remaining 35 to be delivered before the end of the year.

The new DAF XF trucks will replace other trucks that have reached the end of their first economical life, and will complement the company’s overall fleet used for transporting coal and manganese throughout the country and in Mozambique.

Sales director for Babcock’s Transport Solutions business, Mark Gavin, says that sales of the new DAF trucks have exceeded expectations, with more logistics companies switching to DAF for the exceptional fuel efficiencies that the new trucks offer, including prominent logistics operators such as VR Cargo.

“The new DAF XF trucks feature higher torque at lower revs in combination with optimised drivelines, new high-efficiency rear axles, enhanced electronics performance and aerodynamic improvements, all resulting in increased fuel efficiency of up to 10% for long-haul journeys,” says Gavin. Local tests carried out on the new DAF trucks in South Africa have proven these efficiencies, which translates to significant savings for long distance operators where up to 60% of overall expenses are allocated to fuel consumption.

Gavin adds that with the biggest interior space available on the market, the largest bunks, quiet engine, and all-round new features to improve driver comfort, the trucks are also proving very popular with drivers. “Our customers have reported that drivers are jostling to be first in line to drive the new DAF trucks.”

He says that as part of the Babcock-financed deal, the trucks purchased by VR Cargo come with a maintenance contract as standard, which includes on-site servicing and repairs; as well as the Babcock Driver Management System – Executrax – which provides operators with real-time location information, as well as valuable feedback on each driver’s driving style. The XF range also comes with an unlimited mileage warranty, a one-year vehicle warranty and three-year driveline warranty.

“We are delighted that VR Cargo has trusted Babcock to provide a total transport solution for their business, and we are confident that the new DAF XF trucks will deliver outstanding productivity,” says Gavin.

In keeping with a company tradition that started when VR Cargo took delivery of their first truck on a Tuesday followed by a braai, Babcock will join VR Cargo’s MD Shaun van Rooyen and other representatives from both companies and the media for the handover and braai on Tuesday 26 October to mark the momentous occasion.