Latest DAF XF 6×2 tractors deliver economy boost for Cross Country Carriers

Cross Country Carriers has taken delivery of two New Generation DAF XF 480 FTG tractor units, with the Bury-St-Edmunds-based pallet and trunking specialist reporting considerably improved fuel economy with its latest model-year '25 DAF vehicles. Running consistently at 44-tonnes GCW, both trucks are returning up to 11.7mpg - an improvement of 0.5mpg over already very fuel efficient previous DAF XF units - which equates to an annual saving of ?3000 per truck. Managing a predominantly DAF fleet of 46 vehicles, Cross Country Carriers provides palletised collection and delivery operations during the day followed by overnight trunking nationwide.

Accordingly, the economy figures are regarded as particularly impressive given the intensive 24/6 nature of the operation. The latest model-year '25 DAF XF trucks feature a raft of upgrades introduced to all New Generation DAF vehicles at the end of 2024, including optimised drivelines, aerodynamic enhancements and a range of advanced driver assistance systems, resulting in an impressive fuel efficiency improvement of an additional 3%. Optimised driveline efficiency is achieved through new engine valve timing, a dual drive coolant pump and a two-cylinder clutched air compressor.

Turbocharger and EGR systems have also been updated. New fuel injectors also deliver excellent efficiency, reliability and durability. The XF duo for Cross Country Carriers was supplied by the local DAF Dealer, Chassis Cab, which has locations throughout East Anglia. Trucks are powered by 12.9-litre PACCAR MX-13 engines rated at 480bhp.

DAF's 'FTG' 6x2 chassis features a steering mid-lift axle configuration. Cross Country Carriers is a member of both Palletways and UPN networks, and has enjoyed increased volumes amounting to 20% growth across the business already this year. The company says it is handling this upturn in work through greater operational efficiency rather than a major fleet expansion, with the new DAF XF tractors instrumental to the success.

Joe Humphry, Managing Director, from Cross Country Carriers confirms the latest XF 480 units are delivering enhanced performance compared to the company's existing New Generation DAF XF fleet. "We're seeing about half a mile to the gallon better with these model-year '25 trucks," he says, "with the vehicles averaging 11.3mpg and up to 11.7mpg. In fact, they were surprisingly good out-of-the-box when they hit the road in March, and now they're bedded-in, we're seeing superb productivity. The drivers love them," he adds, "They tell me they're an incredibly smooth drive."

"The business has grown 20% this year already," explains Humphry. "It's really just improving our own efficiencies to handle more freight with the equipment we have. The new DAF XFs were originally intended to replace older units, but increased business volumes have necessitated retaining the existing fleet." Cross Country Carriers benefits from comprehensive aftersales support through DAF dealer Chassis Cab, with all vehicles covered under three-year R&M contracts. "The team at Chassis Cab are 100% supportive all the time," says Humphry, "I can't speak highly enough of them.

They are fantastic."