DAF XD Electric gets 1990s race truck makeover

By Will Shiers.2026-09-01T10:07:00+01:00

Dutch dairy haulier Van Der Mierden Transport has taken delivery of a unique DAF XD Electric featuring a livery inspired by the manufacturer’s 1996 racing truck.

The XD 350 FT 4x2 tractor, supplied by DAF dealer Truckland, will be used for milk collection duties in the Netherlands.

Its distinctive colour scheme and striping recreate the appearance of DAF’s 1990s race truck, but beneath the retro-inspired exterior is DAF’s latest electric driveline technology.

The DAF XD Electric is equipped with a 350kW (480hp) driveline and 525kWh battery pack, providing a claimed range of more than 500km on a single charge, depending on the application.

Julian van der Mierden, MD of Van Der Mierden Transport, said: “With this DAF, we demonstrate that sustainability, operational practicality and a distinctive design go hand in hand.

“We deliberately chose an innovative and sustainable electric solution that can be deployed directly in day-to-day operations. Like our customers, we care about nature and the future of the next generations.”

Van Der Mierden has been operating for more than 60 years and today runs a fleet consisting almost entirely of DAF trucks.

The family business began by collecting milk churns from local farms using a horse and cart. Today it transports fresh milk, dairy raw materials, semi-finished products and finished products throughout the Netherlands and further afield, using equipment including insulated tank trailers.

Will Shiers.

Will Shiers has held an HGV licence since the age of 21, and has been writing commercial vehicles for the past 25 years. He started his career as technical editor on Motor Transport, before taking on the editorship of Truck & Driver. Since 2011 he has been the editor of industry leading weekly publication Commercial Motor. Will is the UK jury member of the International Truck of the Year.View full Profile

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