From October 18-21, heavy-duty truck drivers from around the world competed in the UD Extra Mile Challenge 2022 global final, held at the UD Experience Center in Ageo, Japan. Due to the pandemic, this was the first time since 2018 that the global final was held, and the fifth such competition since it was introduced in 2015.
The UD Extra Mile Challenge is a driver-skill based competition that tests drivers in three key areas: pre-drive inspection, fuel efficient and safe driving, and maneuvering and parking skills.
The competition featured the top drivers from 11 countries, each having already won individual regional competitions from a field of 260 drivers. Three drivers for the heavy-duty Quon and eight for the heavy-duty Quester battled in their bid to become the Ultimate Driver.
The countries represented in the global final were Japan, Singapore, South Africa, Indonesia, Ecuador, Qatar, Zimbabwe, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines and Malaysia.
This year's winner was Kouichi Aizawa of Nissho Maruwn Co., Ltd. representing Japan in the Quon category, and Mr. Chawin Chalermyart of S. Kanoksub Logistics Co., Ltd. representing Thailand in the Quester category.
Quon Category Winner: Japan
Kouichi Aizawa, Nissho Maruwn Co., Ltd.
“Representing Japan in the UD Extra Mile Challenge came with much pressure to perform. It was a wonderful experience to compete with drivers from around the world. I have received support from so many people to be here today and would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart. I will continue to do my best to drive efficiently and safely, to honor the title of Ultimate Driver.”
Quester Category Winner: Thailand
Chawin Chalermyart, S. Kanoksub Logistics Co., Ltd.
“I am elated with the result and would like to thank UD Trucks for organizing this event. Through this competition I have improved my driving skills - driving more efficiently overall and optimizing the performance of my truck. It has been such a beneficial experience.”
Kouji Maruyama, President of UD Trucks, said, “We thank all drivers for their tremendous effort to keep logistics moving in these challenging times. The highly skilled drivers participating in this competition contribute not only to the bottom line, but also make society better by improving the efficiency of logistics, minimizing traffic accidents, and reducing environmental impacts.“
The shortage of skilled drivers is a pressing issue facing markets the world over. The UD Extra Mile Challenge demonstrates the company’s commitment to driver education and motivation, while shining the light on the unsung heroes of Gemba – the truck drivers. It serves as a symbol for UD Trucks and how the company is going the extra mile for customer success. The competition also represents UD Trucks’ commitment to supporting smart logistics and achieving the company’s Better Life purpose, which is to make life better for people and the planet.
UD Extra Mile Challenge 2022 global final results
[Quon Category]
Overall Winner: Japan representative, Kouichi Aizawa, Nissho Maruwn Co., Ltd.
Best Pre-driving Inspection: Japan
Best Driving Skills: Japan
Best Fuel Efficiency: South Africa
[Quester Category]
Overall Winner: Thailand representative, Chawin Chalermyart, S. Kanoksub Logistics
Best Pre-driving Inspection: Zimbabwe
Best Driving Skills: Thailand
Best Fuel Efficiency: Thailand
