Millionth DAF produced

PACCAR has been knocking over more milestones – just two months after Kenworth produced its one millionth truck in the US, its across-the-pond sibling, DAF, has produced its one millionth truck at its Eindhoven plant in the Netherlands.

The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte (pictured, right), lifted the covers off the machine in question at a gala occasion at the Eindhoven facility, which was attended by dignitaries, DAF executives, and staff.

In the factory's first year of truck production, 1949, just 150 trucks were produced – a far cry from the 36,000 examples that rolled of the line last year.

The President and CEO of DAF Trucks NV, Harrie Schippers (pictured, left), said the milestone was testament to the dedication of all DAF employees.

"We are very honoured that Prime Minister Rutte has officially unveiled the millionth DAF truck manufactured in Eindhoven," he said.

"That is also due recognition for the 5000 employees in Eindhoven, who daily give their all to supply our customers with trucks and services of the highest quality."

The millionth truck was sold as part of a batch destined for Hungarian operator Révész Group – a logistics firm with a 480-strong fleet that specialises in bulk and tanker transport.

Company owner and CEO, Bálint Révész (pictured, centre), said he was thrilled to be receiving the landmark model.

"We are very honoured to receive the millionth Eindhoven-manufactured truck to add to our fleet," he said.

"Our trucks drive an average of 130,000km per year and reliability and low operating costs are our main buying criteria, not to mention the highest driver comfort. DAF knows how best to combine all of these requirements, which is why our fleet consists of almost 100 per cent DAFs."

Prime Minister Rutte said the historic moment was proof that manufacturing still had an important place in the Netherlands.

"The millionth DAF truck manufactured in Eindhoven is the millionth piece of evidence that the prescription of the brothers Van Doorne [DAF's founders] still works," he said.

"Continue to innovate, continue to grow and above all continue to invest in knowledge and people who are proud of the product they make and the company where they work. Innovation and craftsmanship go hand in hand here."

For a snapshot of how the milestone moment went down – and a chance to practise your Dutch – take a look at the clip below...