Driven: “tough guy” of the orange team
Driven: “tough guy” of the orange team
Italian magazine Allestimenti & Trasporti recently put the DAF XFC 530 FAD to the test in a quarry. GIANENRICO GRIFFINI reports that the
530-hp truck delivers class-leading performance.
Good blood does not lie, as the saying goes. This also applies to DAF’s
XFC – XDC construction models, which share the same DNA and design criteria for safety, fuel efficiency, and on-board comfort as the XF, XG, and XG+ long-haul models, as well as the XD distribution series launched between 2021 and 2022. The proof is the top-of-the-range XFC 530 FAD in 8×4 configuration equipped with a 530-hp MX-13 engine delivering 2,700Nm of peak torque, which we put to the test in a Milanese quarry.
The DNA of the Dutch manufacturer’s other model series on this construction vehicle is immediately evident in the cab features (in this specific case, a day cab). Like the other series, this cab complies with the criteria of EU regulation 2015/719, which establishes the weights and dimensions of vehicles and their combinations.
In particular, the front elongation makes it possible to increase internal volume and raise the safety level. This is thanks to the driver’s improved direct visibility, achieved through the adoption of a wide, curved windscreen and a lowered beltline. The increased length and the use of well-rounded exterior profiles reduce aerodynamic drag, helping to bring down fuel consumption.
Top-of-the-range 13-litre engine
The construction truck we tested features DAF’s top-of-the-range engine: the 12.9-litre in-line-six MX-13 in Euro 6 Step E. This is rated at 530hp at
1,600r/min with a top torque of 2,550Nm at 900r/min. Since the MX-13 is a multi-torque unit, in 12th gear the peak value rises to 2,700Nm in the 900 to 1,125r/min range to tackle demanding gradients. This result is achieved thanks to a software feature that acts on the turbocharger, increasing the boost pressure.
The driveline includes the latest version of the automated ZF TraXon 12TX2610 OD 12-speed transmission (with the last gear in overdrive). With the activation of the TraXon’s off-road gear changing mode, which requires pressing a button on the dashboard, the driver can handle all off-road driving situations, even under full load. The off-road strategy results in faster gear changes at higher engine speeds. Gear changes occur at around 1,700r/min, compared to 1,300r/min in the fuel-saving Eco mode, which is activated by default when the driver turns the engine on. The off-road feature deactivates the Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) device, minimising or avoiding torque interruptions to the wheels. During off-road driving, the engine brake also intervenes for short periods to speed up gear shaft synchronisation.
If required by the terrain – such as mud or potholes that may “trap” the vehicle – the driver can use the rock-free functionality. Thanks to targeted control of the clutch disc, this triggers fast rocking to free the truck and set it on its way once more. In the most demanding off-road conditions, the TraXon can operate in sequential manual mode – activated by pressing the button on the end of the multifunction lever beside the steering column.
MX engine brake makes the difference
The same lever can activate the multi-stage MX engine brake, combined with the traditional exhaust engine brake. The high braking power of the MX engine brake (if required, together with manual selection of the engaged gear) stabilises the vehicle’s downhill speed even along steep gradients under full load conditions. The new engine brake can achieve a braking torque of over 1,800Nm at 1,100 to 1,850r/min (on the previous generation, it was available at 1,500r/min), with a maximum retarding power of over 360kW. These performance characteristics make it possible to minimise the use of the foundation brakes.
The XFC 530 FAD we tested features disc brakes on the first two axles and drum brakes on the traction tandem. Finally, the MX engine brake does away with the secondary hydraulic retarder connected to the gearbox, the effectiveness of which depends on the vehicle’s speed.
Impressive cab
The DAF XFC 530 FAD is distinguished by the dominant black grille and a robust steel bumper, steel radiator protection plate, and two maintenance-free LED fog lights which are deeply recessed in the bumper for maximum protection.
We really liked the practical and rational interior layout in the FAD 8×4. The increased direct visibility to the right side of the vehicle is also commendable.
Our test vehicle featured conventionally designed side mirrors (as opposed to cameras), but DAF does offer the DDVS (DAF Digital Vision System) as an option. This replaces the primary and wide-angle rearview mirrors with retractable cameras in the upper section of the cab. The corresponding monitors are attached to the front pillars (A-Pillar) of the driver’s compartment. The DDVS system features an automatic panoramic view, an extra-wide-angle view, and a defrosting device. This allows easy, precise, and safe manoeuvring in all weather conditions and operating situations – both on the road and at the construction site – while turning, reversing, and pulling over.
In conclusion, the DAF XFC 530 FAD proves to be a robust and versatile performer, meeting the demands of construction work with cutting-edge features and a focus on safety and efficiency.
Published by
focusmagsa
