Electric DAF trucks prove ideal for 2 Start Training
2 Start Training, a multi-discipline logistics training provider, has praised its new electric DAF trucks for being ideally suited to driver training. The Portsmouth-based operation took delivery of Jamaica Blue and Flame Red XD 350 FT 4×2 Electrics in May 2026. It is the first UK driving school to add plug-in tractor units to its fleet.
The decision came down to numbers. “We ran the figures and it made sense,” says Paul Moon, Managing Director of 2 Start Training. “Not only the headline figure, but the reduced running costs too.”
After several months of delivering lessons, the team has been impressed by how well the electric XDs suit the job. Moon explained, “The students love being in the trucks, as do the instructors. From a driver’s perspective, especially with the full DAF Digital Vision System installed, the XD Electric is by far the best truck I’ve ever driven.”
Range, charging and power
The XD 350 FT Electric sends 350 kW of power to the road from 525 kWh battery packs. That allows it to cover up to 300 miles between charges. Maximum charging speed reaches 325 kW, which can take the batteries from 20 to 80 per cent in under an hour.
2 Start Training takes a simpler approach. The team charges the vehicles overnight with a PacMobile portable charger, which plugs straight into the existing three-phase supply.
The PACCAR EX-D2 electric power unit uses twin electric motors. These act as both a retarder and a regenerative braking system, feeding energy back into the batteries on the move. A fully automated three-speed gearbox manages power delivery.
A quieter, calmer classroom on wheels
The training provider believes the electric XDs are ideal for the next generation of drivers, largely because of how quiet they are. “It’s so much nicer for both pupil and instructor to not battle to be heard over a diesel engine,” explains Moon. “Especially in those early sessions where confidence isn’t as strong.”
Instant torque is another advantage for learners. “One of the biggest failure points in the Class 1 test is blocking roundabouts because it takes so long to build up speed, so being able to get going more quickly really does matter,” Moon adds.
More than performance and cost
Going electric was not only about performance or efficiency. “Electric trucks align with our ethos, too,” Moon explains. “They’re different, attract interest in 2 Start Training and help to incentivise trucking to a new generation.”
Support and the road ahead
Introducing electric DAFs involved a learning curve, but initial uncertainties soon faded. “We received excellent support from Adams Morey and DAF,” claims Moon. “We’re using a PACCAR PacMobile portable charging unit to keep the trucks topped up. Plugging the vehicles in has become second nature to us and part of the close down routine.
“While we’re not under any pressure to replace our wider fleet at the moment, I’m excited to see the product range continue to develop ahead of more electric DAFs joining us in the years to come.”
