A unique project from the 70s by DAF and Volvo. A condensed version of the entire story, which is very extensive and documented. For those interested, the story can of course be read/viewed in the showroom.
In the early 70s, Mr. Per Gyllenhammer, President-Director Volvo, returned from a business trip to Indonesia. It became clear that there was a need for a multifunctional vehicle that could still be tackled by the local blacksmith. Once home, Volvo turned out not to be interested and the request ended up with DAF. At that time, Volvo already had 33% shares in DAF and so the collaboration was quickly made. BATU stands for Basis Automotive Transport Unit.
Various prototypes were made and developed, even a 6x4 version with Variomatic. One example of this has been preserved in the DAF museum in Eindhoven. When the project attracted the interest of various countries, Volvo/DAF called in the help of the English Overseas Vehicle Department, who were responsible for the testing on difficult terrain. Among other things, it emerged that the standard DAF 2-cylinder boxer engine could be better replaced by a 4-cylinder engine, also used in DAF. Unfortunately, during development, the English company went bankrupt and DAF was taken over by Volvo. This put the BATU project on a side track. The prototypes made (approximately 6 pieces) were stored and were scrapped over the years, ended up at the DAF museum and two went to Budel Airport. These were used for the special advertising aircraft. The damage caused by the pins is still in the rear screen of this BATU bus.
This example was found in a private collection and turned out to have come from Budel Airport. The authenticity could be established by various key figures working at the DAF development department. First, Mr. Frans Christophe revealed some details of the BATU that only insiders know, in addition he was able to tell specific details about the prototype that went to Budel, which was important. He was also able to obtain official drawings and documentation from Volvo (!). In addition, he worked together with Mr. Rob Koch, design department DAF, and he could also tell more about this specific example. Mr. Koch drove this prototype at the airport for a long time. Here is also an extremely special photo of the example at the airport. Unmistakably the DAF Batu.
The very last photo shows Mr. F. Christophe with the prototype! After it was made roadworthy again in 2024.
The license plate on the car is absolutely unique. Thanks to Volvo's recognition and the very extensive documentation, the RDW has given a license plate to this prototype. This means that you are allowed to drive on public roads (and even motorways!) with this prototype. For the collector and enthusiast, this is an absolute pinnacle.
The technology concerns the completely original 4-cylinder 1,108cc BB110 with 53 hp coupled to the Variomatic automatic transmission. Everything works perfectly and for the DAF enthusiast it is a feast of recognition of parts that have been used by the development department.
This is only a very short explanation/description in connection with advertising. Much more information is available, as well as photo material. The advertisement contains some images of the similarities with Volvo, development and history. Some details have been omitted for privacy reasons.
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