Barneveld, 12 August 2024 – H&S Group, a leader in the transportation of liquid foodstuffs based in Barneveld, has placed an order for 20 new DAF XG 480 FT trucks. H&S, part of Royal Den Hartogh Logistics, selected DAF after an extensive evaluation process. The new DAF vehicles will be delivered by dealer Bakker Bedrijfswagens in early 2025.
H&S, acquired by Den Hartogh last March, chose DAF based on trust in the brand and the service provided by Bakker Bedrijfswagens. The DAF XG stands out with its modern and spacious cab, offering unparalleled comfort for long-distance journeys. The low curb weight of the truck is another advantage, particularly important in the distribution of liquid foodstuffs, a specialty of H&S.
"These are concentrates of liquids with as much water removed as possible. A kilogram of concentrate can produce ten or more kilograms of finished product that ends up on the shelves. Every extra kilogram of payload capacity is crucial for us", explains Jos van den Hurk, Fleet & Equipment Manager at H&S.
To minimize weight, the new DAF XG 480 FT trucks will be equipped with a 510-liter fuel tank instead of a 600-liter one. Additionally, the air tanks are made of aluminium, and lightweight Alcoa rims will be fitted. An aluminium cover plate will be installed on the platform behind the cab, providing a safe standing area for drivers when connecting and disconnecting cables, air hoses, and the PTO drive, which is also an additional feature on these XG trucks.
Cameras Instead of Mirrors
H&S has also opted for the DAF Digital Vision system, including Corner Eye. These safety systems improve aerodynamics and enhance direct visibility, as the cameras do not obstruct the driver's view and eliminate blind spots. The DAF XG trucks will also be equipped with specific software for liquid transport and feature Predictive Cruise Control, which adjusts speed based on geographical data in the navigation system, ensuring the most efficient driving uphill and downhill.
Furthermore, the trucks will be fitted with a luxury driver’s seat and a thicker mattress. Fifteen of the DAF XG 480 FT trucks will operate on shorter routes in modal and intermodal transport, while five will also handle longer journeys. H&S will entrust the maintenance entirely to Bakker Bedrijfswagens through Multi Support maintenance contracts.
Promising Collaboration
H&S is a leading logistics company specializing in the distribution of liquid foodstuffs, known for its reliable and efficient service. The recent acquisition by Royal Den Hartogh Logistics has expanded H&S's capacity and innovation potential. "With our focus on sustainability and continuous improvement of our services, we aim to remain a reliable partner in the logistics sector," says Van den Hurk. "This order marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between DAF, Bakker Bedrijfswagens, and H&S / Den Hartogh."