Daf powers up on big six
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• Daf has revealed that prototype versions of its larger capacity engine, which will take the 95 Series into the 375kWplus (500hp) bracket, are at the test-bed development stage. While the company is not releasing specific information, CM understands that it is a sixcylinder in-line unit, of clean and compact dimensions, which will
readily fit in the existing 11.6litre engine. This has little more development potential above about 320kW (430hp), given the requirements for reliability and fuel economy and the restrictions imposed by emission legislation.
Precise casting techniques produce a very strong light block for the new engine. The head incorporates twin overhead camshafts operating four valves per cylinder. One camshaft carries an extra lobe per cylinder to operate centrally mounted unit injectors. Initially turbocharged versions are expected to give outputs upward of 335kW (450hp) but with various stages of charge-cooling it could produce well over 375kW (500hp) accompanied by torque outputs greater than 2,000Nm (1,4751bft), should operating conditions demand it.
While most chassis manufacturers now offer power outputs of about 375kW, Daf has chosen the Volvo and Cummins formula by opting for an in-line engine instead of the continental preference for large capacity eight and 10-cylinder vee units.
Daf is also planning to introduce disc brakes on the front axle of the 95 Series. While tests have gone well with air over hydraulic systems, the Daf engineers are less enthusiastic about the performance of full-air disc brakes. They believe the much higher initial cost offsets operational advantages for the first life operator. It will be at least a year before full-air disc brakes are offered as an option.