DAF

DAF is a Dutch automaker founded in 1928 by brothers Hubert and Frans van Doorne in Eindhoven, which asserted itself between 1959 and 1980 as a major innovator in the European light and commercial vehicle market. DAF's history is characterized by remarkable technological advances, notably the introduction of the Variomatic trapezoid belt transmission in 1958, a revolutionary continuously variable system that equipped DAF models in the 1960s and 1970s and distinguished them from rivals like Fiat or Renault. The DAF range during this period covers compact personal vehicle segments (Dafodil, 33, 44) and light commercial vehicles, positioning the manufacturer as an undisputed player in professional transport and the civilian market. Between 1959 and 1980, DAF consolidated its presence in Western Europe with production facilities in Eindhoven and Westerlo, Belgium, while developing DAF specification sheets recognized for reliability and economical consumption, major assets against rising oil crises of the 1970s. DAF manufacturer progressively focuses on the heavy-duty and commercial vehicle segment, strengthening its reputation as an innovator with trucks equipped with robust engines and advanced braking systems, before ceding its automobile division to Volvo in 1975 to refocus on its professional transport expertise.