ARABIAN NIGHTS
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Long-haul special edition The mid-1970s boom in Middle East transport resulted in several long-haul special editions from truck manufacturers. DAF’s response in 1975 was the Supercontinental, based on a left-hand drive, 3.1m chassis DKS 4x2 tractor unit.
Externally, this limited edition was fitted with a cast iron fifth wheel, extra spotlights, and grilles to protect the radiators or front-facing lenses. Some operators also fixed a windscreen mesh to cope with stone-throwing locals in less friendly countries. The interior was converted by a West Country caravan manufacturer, and DAF advertised the Supercontinental as “the truck with everything including the kitchen sink”.
A single, hinged bunk lifted to reveal a wash basin and water supply with a trio of seven gallon containers, two-ring butane gas stove and a refrigerator. Other everyday necessities included a shaving mirror, table, hanging wardrobe and personal luggage locker, besides a toolbox, air conditioning unit and all-round laminated tinted glass.
Sadly, the Supercontinental did not sell in any great numbers, but RF Interport Movements and Pacific Intermountain Express (PIE) were among the first customers. However, the standard versions of the 2800 also proved extremely popular for desert runs. Most clog-wearing chauffeurs of the day simply removed the bottom mattress from the cab floor, put the top bunk into the mid-height position, then stowed personal gear and food under there, usually housed in ‘acquired’ plastic bread crates.
Users of right-hand drive trucks found the 2800’s passenger side, front interior grab handle ideal for fitment of an angled interior mirror, which facilitated safer overtaking when driving abroad.