DAF readies UK service centres for electric trucks
The company also aims for each sales centre to have an electric demo truck on site to show customers. DAF Trucks will also give dealers access to a national demonstrator fleet, including a choice of configurations and body types to suit various applications.
The company adds that the new programme was informed mainly by its participation in the Battery Electric Truck Trial (BETT), which has been “instrumental” in developing its electric truck strategy.
Learnings from the BETT is allowing trained DAF sales specialists to guide operators through their transition to zero emissions transport, with route analysis and charging protocols being “very much key” to the company’s offerings.
Internally, training is underway with demo trucks and trainers visiting the shops. DAF Trucks says it has adopted a tiered approach to technical support, with all technicians trained to IMI Level 1 for electric trucks to provide roadside support. Workshop- staff are trained to IMI Level 3 and receive DAF-specific electric truck product training. Aftersales experts at DAF Trucks headquarters in Haddenham can also lend technical support.
As for the charging infrastructure, each dedicated electric truck centre shall install at least one 180 kW charger, while other DAF Service Centres will be equipped with a minimum 24 kW charger in their workshops. DAF expects this will result in a full UK-wide network of chargers.
“We’re right on track, ready for the deployment of electric trucks into the market,” said EV & Sustainability Manager at DAF Trucks. “Our experience on the BETT has been invaluable, allowing us to invest strategically in the network. We’ve assessed the market, gauged customer acceptance, performed cost analyses, and we’re confident that we’re transitioning the DAF Dealer network at the right pace.”
Gary Carpenter, Chair of the DAF Trucks National Dealer Council, added, “The DAF Dealer Network is committed to supporting our customers as they transition to zero emissions and, by investing in the right locations at the right pace, we can ensure we have the personnel, expertise and infrastructure in place for them.”
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