"The transport sector is on the brink of a far-reaching change," says Harry Wolters, "Everything points to electrically powered trucks becoming the standard for deliveries in inner-city areas in the future. Maybe not today and not next year, but definitely in the foreseeable future. I am particularly proud that today marks the start of an outstanding field trial in which DAF is working closely with VDL and Jumbo. This project," he continues, "will allow us to gather useful data and experience in terms of both technology and operational aspects. We can use our findings to ensure that the final production model is the ideal solution for future market requirements."

"The new electrified truck is the next step in implementing a sustainable strategy for our vehicle fleet," says Frits van Eerd. "Our mission puts us at the heart of Dutch communities, and our stated goal is to supply 45 percent of our drop-off points with electric vehicles. By 2020, we hope to reduce the_{CO2 emissions} of Jumbo's vehicle fleet by 50 percent compared to 2008."

Willem van der Leegte of VDL explains: "It's really fantastic to see three companies from the Brabant region working together so effectively. With today's events, Jumbo, DAF and VDL are at the forefront when it comes to developing the zero-emission transport of the future and sustainably reducing noise levels in communities. We are working to make this approach the standard in inner-city areas. The DAF CF Electric with e-Power technology from VDL offers transport companies the ideal solution for their needs and represents a major step forward in terms of sustainability in goods transport and distribution."

The DAF CF Electric can be used within a radius of approximately 50 kilometers from the delivery site - with minimal noise pollution and zero emissions. A charging station for charging the truck has been installed at the Jumbo distribution center in Veghel. V-Storage, a joint venture between VDL and Scholt Energy Control, is working with the Dutch research institute TNO to evaluate the possibility of solar panels to power charging stations.

The DAF CF Electric is a 4x2 tractor unit in combination with a standard single or double-axle trailer and is designed for road freight transport of up to 37 tons in inner-city areas. The vehicle is based on the DAF CF - "International Truck of the Year 2018" - and is electrically powered by VDL's e-Power technology. At the heart of this powertrain is the 210 kW electric motor, which is powered by a lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 170 kWh. The CF Electric has a range of around 100 kilometers, making it suitable for inner-city distribution transport with high volumes. The battery has a 30-minute fast-charging function. A full charge takes 1.5 hours.