Kevin Swallow
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When it comes to horses for courses, the 18tonner is able to meet the most varied of challenges. And in terms of performance, the DAF CF65.300 18-tonner revealed that compared with a 44-tonner it can improve mpg twofold while delivering a third of the payload.
The question is whether it would suit your operation en masse or would be better plugging gaps in the distribution network. Either way, the CF65 is a market standard bearer. The six-speed transmission coupled with the 295hp/1,100Nm engine and Space Cab created a pleasant environment. CM would go for additional storage on the back walls, but otherwise the specification was first-rate.
The severe gradients only knocked the truck back in terms of fuel. The engine didn’t miss a beat, although it is slightly over-specified and perhaps the GR210 (281hp/950Nm) would be better suited. As for drawbar applications, the GR220 would suit, although the operator is more likely to go for the PR 9.2-litre instead.
The 18-tonner is unlikely to replace an artic like-for-like (unless it’s a drawbar), but could meet specific tasks within a mixed fleet. And as a working vehicle, the DAF CF65 is first class.