DAF Trucks has introduced a revised range of drivelines for its LF series of trucks. The new PACCAR PX-5 and PX-7 engines in combination with the new automatic 8-speed PowerLine gearboxes result in up to 7% higher fuel efficiency compared to the already very efficient models.

There is no mention of the lower-powered 3.8 litre PX-4 engine that is used at power outputs of 156 and 172hp but DAF have introduced a lower powered option in the PX-5 suggesting that the engine range has been rationalised with the lowest output now 170hp.  Across the range, the incoming model has a slightly lower power output than the current version. This is unusual for a truck manufacturer, as they usually take the opportunity to increase outputs by some 10 hp at the time of engine line up.

Engine                 Outgoing power                            New models                    Incoming Power

PX-4                     156 hp                                             N/A                                    N/A

PX-4                    172 hp                                             PX-5                                   170 hp

PX-5                     184 hp                                             PX-5                                   190 hp

PX-5                     213 hp                                             PX-5                                   210 hp

PX-7                     234 hp                                             PX-7                                   230 hp

PX-7                     264 hp                                             PX-7                                   260 hp

PX-7                     295 hp                                             PX-7                                   290 hp

PX-7                     325 hp                                             PX-7                                   310 hp

New highly efficient engines

The 4.5 litre 4-cylinder PACCAR PX-5 engine and the 6.7 litre 6-cylinder PACCAR PX-7 engine have been completely redesigned. Both state-of-the-art engines are characterized by a new lightweight yet ultra-strong Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) block and cast-iron cylinder head, new low-friction pistons, new highly efficient compressors and a new waste-gate turbo.

Full range of engine ratings

The new PACCAR PX engines for the DAF LF series are available in 7 output ratings The 4.5 litre PACCAR PX-5 engine comes with outputs from 124 kW (170 hp) to 153 kW (210 hp) and the 6.7 litre PACCAR PX-7 engine has outputs from 167 kW (230 hp) up to 227 kW (310 hp). The engines develop peak torque at even lower engine speeds, supporting down-speeding and thus excellent fuel efficiency.                                                                                             

PowerLine automatic gearboxes

Part of the new DAF LF driveline is the new 8-speed, fully automatic PowerLine transmission, which feature optimal gear spread and steps. Powershifting without any torque interruption enables smooth shifts and quick throttle response, resulting in excellent comfort and driveability. In addition, the new transmissions provide outstanding low speed maneuverability, enabled by an urge-to-move feature upon releasing the brake pedal.

6- and 9-speed manual transmissions will remain available for the DAF LF series, while fully automatic Allison gearboxes will continue to be available for special applications, such as refuse collection and firefighting.

Fuel efficiency

The new PACCAR PX-5 and PX-7 engines and PowerLine transmissions – in combination with optimized rear axle ratios – result in fuel savings of up to 7%, depending on the application, further enhancing the excellent business proposition of the DAF LF series in the distribution segment.

DAF LF in Blue
Across the range, the incoming model has a slightly lower power output than the current version. This is unusual for a truck manufacturer