Model Cars - DAF

DAF (short for Van Doorne’s Automobiel Fabriek) is a Dutch manufacturer with a long history in the automotive industry, known for producing cars, trucks, and other vehicles.

It was founded in 1928 by brothers Hubert and Adrianus Van Doorne in Eindhoven, Netherlands. DAF began as a small company focusing on manufacturing trailers and semi-trailers. The company grew through its production of transport equipment for industrial and agricultural use.

After World War II, the company shifted its focus towards the production of automobiles, beginning with small passenger cars in the 1950s. 1958: DAF launched its first car, the DAF 600, a small two-door saloon car. The car was notable for featuring a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

1960s–1970s: DAF continued to grow its car production, with models like the DAF 33 (1961) and the DAF 44 (1966).

In 1975, Volvo acquired a controlling stake in DAF, which led to the eventual integration of DAF’s car division into the Volvo brand.

1980: DAF stopped producing passenger cars altogether, and the DAF car division was absorbed into Volvo, marking the end of the company’s direct involvement in car manufacturing. Afterward, Volvo continued to use DAF's CVT technology in some of its cars.