From Workshops to World Leaders: The Extraordinary Evolution of DAF Trucks

In the bustling heart of Eindhoven, Netherlands, the story of DAF Trucks began with a vision as ambitious as the roaring engines they would come to create. DAF, which stands for Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek, has grown from a modest blacksmith workshop into a global titan of the trucking industry. Let’s embark on a riveting journey through time, exploring the milestones and marvels that have defined DAF’s incredible evolution.

A Humble Forge: 1928–1930s

The tale starts in 1928, when Hub van Doorne opened a small blacksmith and welding workshop. Initially named Commanditaire Vennootschap Hub van Doorne’s Machinefabriek, it catered to the repair needs of the local community. The post-war economy demanded innovative solutions for a recovering Europe, and Van Doorne’s enterprise was poised to meet these challenges head-on.

By 1932, the workshop had evolved into the Van Doorne’s Aanhangwagen Fabriek (DAF), focusing on the production of trailers. The company quickly gained a reputation for quality and durability, laying the groundwork for future expansion.

Forging Ahead: The Birth of DAF Trucks (1940s — 1950s)

The 1940s brought significant transformation. In 1949, DAF branched into vehicle manufacturing, unveiling their first truck, the DAF A30. This truck was a testament to engineering excellence, designed to meet the demanding needs of post-war Europe. Its success marked the beginning of DAF’s journey in the automotive industry.

In the 1950s, DAF continued to innovate with the introduction of the DAF 600 in 1958. This was not a truck, but the world’s first car with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), known as the Variomatic. While DAF eventually shifted its focus back to trucks, the Variomatic demonstrated the company’s innovative spirit and technical prowess.

The Era of Expansion: 1960s — 1970s

The 1960s and 70s were periods of rapid growth and technological advancement for DAF. The company expanded its product range, introducing medium and heavy-duty trucks that quickly gained popularity across Europe. The DAF 2600, launched in 1962…