Using digital truck data for optimum vehicle selection isn’t a new science, it’s just become more accurate thanks to smart software that fuses driveline data with vehicle specifications to help transporters choose the best rig for the job. Read on to learn how DAF trucks and Babcock cracked the nod from food-grade tanker fleet, Legacy Bulk, to deliver five DAF XF 480 Smart trucks for short and long-haul routes in South Africa.
Wynand Krause, operations director at Legacy Bulk, says, “the DAF trucks’ performance has exceeded our expectations in terms of fuel consumption and the favourable total cost of ownership places the DAFs as firm contenders for Legacy Bulk’s expansion plans.”
Krause says that one of the motivating factors behind Legacy Bulk’s decision to add DAF trucks to their growing fleet was the compelling comparative data they obtained from TruckScience, a vehicle selection software program.
“This comparison software allows truck buyers to compare specifications such as payload capacity, performance, fuel efficiency, driver comfort and safety against leading truck brands. The tool also takes into consideration trailer specification, application and routing. According to the calculations, the DAF XF 480 Smart truck emerged as one of the top performers for our specific application and routes, beating some of the leading truck brands available in South Africa. This, combined with competitive pricing and strong aftersales support from Babcock, prompted us to invest in the DAF brand,” says Krause.
Class-leading performance figures coming through the data
“Having run the trucks for a few months on local and long-haul routes, I am very pleased to report that the calculations generated by the TruckScience software have proven to be accurate and that our fuel costs are substantially lower than the industry average of 50% of turnover, which is really excellent,” enthuses Krause.
“Furthermore, we have received outstanding service from Babcock’s service centres, with service turnaround times of less than 24 hours for those trucks that have reached their service mileage. Babcock’s service teams have demonstrated their full commitment to assisting our emerging company to succeed by prioritising the services and getting our trucks back on the road as soon as possible.
“It is reassuring to know that Babcock has service centres and breakdown assistance across the country so that we can access both types of services quickly when required,” says Krause.
He adds that Legacy Bulk has also received positive feedback about the DAF trucks from their drivers, who are enjoying the spacious cabs, less frequent fuel stops, and driving a truck that is in top condition.
“The success of any logistics business largely depends on its drivers, and we are fortunate to have a great team of drivers who take pride in the trucks in which they spend a large amount of time. We want to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible, feel safe driving a truck that is properly maintained, and receive full back-up support when needed.”
All drivers also receive comprehensive training on the DAF trucks, facilitated by Babcock.
“Together with Babcock and our drivers, we have developed a winning formula that incorporates route optimisation, fuel efficiency and service support. We hope to scale up our operations by the end of the year based on this formula and will be looking at adding further DAFs to our fleet as soon as the tankers are available,” concludes Krause.
