DAF presents payload improvements in electric trucks and other innovations at IAA

The automaker reorganized the battery layout of its electric trucks to reduce the load on the front axle and expand the available cargo capacity.

At IAA 2026 in Hanover, Germany, DAF presented its latest innovations. Among the advancements showcased were new axle configurations for both its diesel and electric trucks, designed to offer tailored solutions for every transport application.

Now, DAF ‘s range of electric trucks features a new configuration for its battery packs , which, combined with the additional margin authorized by legislation for electric trucks (up to 2 tons) and an optimal weight distribution, means that the XD, XF, XG and XG+ Electric models offer up to 500 kilograms more load capacity.

DAF unveiled a battery configuration that eliminates the pack located under the cab and uses up to four packs strategically positioned at the rear of the vehicle. By reducing the load on the front axle by approximately 700 kilograms and thus optimizing the vehicle’s weight distribution, a payload increase of no less than 2.5 tons is achieved.

This solution to battery placement is gaining significant value in the industry , as charging capacity is one of the factors that manufacturers seek to optimize in the development of heavy electric vehicles, due to the additional weight incorporated by the battery packs.

The diesel supply is also improving

Diesel transport vehicles have not been left behind in terms of innovation. DAF noted that it has added new configurations for its XD, XF, XG, and XG+ vehicles , including a 10×4 rigid chassis developed primarily for heavy-duty work in construction applications.

For transporting non-rolling vehicles known as car carriers, DAF also presented 4×2 and 6×2 chassis with a height of 83 centimeters . This reduction aims to optimize the available space within the European four-meter vehicle height limit and, depending on the cab, allows for the transport of cars on top of it. It is available for the XD, XF, XG, and XG+ models.

DAF is part of PACCAR, a conglomerate headquartered in Seattle, WA, which also owns the Peterbilt and Kenworth brands. DAF has been operating in Mexico for just over two years, during which time it has sold approximately 1,000 units to domestic customers.