The top-of-the-range DAF XG+ picked up top spot in the Flagship Tractor-unit category, quickly followed by a win for the New Generation DAF XD 6x2 rigid in the Distribution (heavy-duty) category.
The double-win for DAF follows last year’s Irish Fleet Tractor Unit of the Year win for both the New Generation XF and XG models at the 2023 awards. The DAF XD was also voted International Truck of the Year 2023.
The Irish Fleet Truck of the Year jury includes commercial vehicle editors, expert journalists, transport operators, truck drivers and technicians, all completing an extensive appraisal process of the vehicle entrants.
Award winner ‘motivations’ from Fleet Transport:
XD
“In an area of the transport industry that is highly demanding of both truck and driver, DAF's XD provides a level of comfort to the distribution sector normally reserved for a brand's flagship models. In addition, XD has now set a new standard in vehicle safety by greatly enhancing the field of vision available to the driver, and this measure alone is deserving of special recognition from the industry. XD will also bring further benefits for operators thanks to DAF's continuous improvements to driveline efficiency.”
DAF XG+
“By taking full advantage of the new dimension regulations the design and production of DAF's XG+ heralds a new era in truck design. An era that will focus more on the driver's needs while still meeting the needs of the operator for an efficient and competent working truck.
“The enhanced levels of comfort and space XG+ offers to the driver is unequalled in the industry and at a time when driver recruiting and retention is difficult across all sectors, any measure that can help to ease this issue is most welcome. As a manufacturer DAF Trucks has always been recognised as a producer of reliable trucks with solid and efficient drivelines, and this continues to be case with XG+. However, the enhanced safety features available with XG+ especially the expansive vision systems will bring further benefits to road safety.”
Both awards this year were presented to John McCann, Sales Manager DAF Trucks Ireland. He said, “Really pleased to pick up the Flagship Tractor award, but the XD win in the Distribution category was just a fantastic result for us, and backing up the International Truck of the Year Award for the new range. The Fleet Transport Irish Truck of the Year awards attracts some of the most influential individuals from across the transport landscape in Ireland and has now established itself as a key date in the calendar.”