VDL Groep and DAF Trucks have announced that they have both perpetuated and strengthened their long-term relationship. Both Eindhoven-based technology companies have agreed a new, multi-year contract involving hundreds of man-years of work. Amounts will not be disclosed.
Among other things, VDL will modernise a state-of-the-art assembly line as well as supply components to be incorporated in the cabins of DAF trucks. Further cooperation around the already presented and jointly developed all-electric truck is also part of the new agreement.
The new contract stipulates that VDL Steelweld in Breda will be responsible for modernising the assembly line at DAF's cab factory in Westerlo, Belgium, over the next few years.
VDL Parree in Sevenum, a specialist in high-quality and technical plastic injection moulding, will supply parts for the interior of DAF trucks. This includes plastic parts for the cabin. VDL TIM Hapert, specialising in machining operations, will supply a multifunctional support for DAF's chassis.
History
From the start of VDL, in 1953, there has been intensive cooperation with DAF Trucks. Initially, mainly pressed steel components, spot welding and regular welding work were supplied to DAF. Over the years, the portfolio was further expanded. VDL produces various parts for DAF trucks, such as engine mounts, cable guides, battery boxes, axle mounts and pipe guides for exhausts. In turn, DAF supplies 11- and 13-litre engines and axles for VDL's buses and coaches.
Wim van der Leegte (left) is handed the keys to three new trucks in
1993 handing over the keys to three new
copies of the DAF-75 from the DAF dealer
in Tilburg.
Solid foundation
"Our jointly developed e-truck that we presented in May last year is the culmination of our 65-year partnership," stated VDL Groep president Willem van der Leegte. "DAF and VDL are both customers and suppliers to each other. We both have a strong and solid foundation and both excel in innovations that improve the future, just as we are making heavier transport more sustainable with our e-truck. As a result, there is a rock-solid mutual commitment between DAF and VDL. This new agreement lays an equally solid foundation for our cooperation, for now and also for the future."
Harry Wolters, president and CEO of DAF Trucks: "VDL and DAF are leading technology companies that are both driven by continuous improvement and innovation and always with the customer's interests at the forefront. That makes the cooperation between VDL and DAF unique and valuable."
Source: VDL
