UD launches 2020 Extra Mile Challenge
The hunt for UD's most efficient and safest driver is on, with the local winner to represent Australia at a global level in JapanUD Trucks has announced that its 2020 Extra Mile Challenge has begun, with the skills-based competition assessing drivers of UD trucks across a range of key criteria including safety, fuel economy and reduced wear and tear.
The local arm of the competition will see 12 drivers selected by UD Trucks customers to compete through three UD Trucks dealerships, with VCV Sydney Prestons, SCT Adelaide and CMV Truck & Bus Dandenong to support their competing drivers with dedicated dealership 'Fuel Watch Managers'.
Global platform
The drivers will be assessed over the next two months, with the Australian champion then going on to compete in the wider global completion at UD Trucks headquarters in Ageo, Japan.
Drivers will be monitored via their truck's telematics system, with the most improved driver over the course of the assessment – i.e. the one who achieves the highest positive percentage change – being crowned the winner.
The change in their performance is measured on a base score developed over one week of drive time prior to the competition beginning. To qualify for victory, the driver must complete a minimum of 180 hours or 15 hours a week of driving time.
Related reading:
UD delivers 96 Quons to Linfox
UD launches 8-litre Quon
UD Quon 8-litre: Review
Each participating driving team will go through checkpoints at numerous intervals, where they will be updated on their progress and given feedback and tips for improvement by their dealership Fuel Watch Manager.
"The new Quon in its EU6 configuration has proven to be a very fuel-efficient truck right from launch," said Mark Strambi, VP of Sales, UD Trucks Australia.
"With the guidance and input from our dedicated Fuel Watch Managers, our customers will be able to realise even greater results across fuel and driver efficiency and safety."
Key criteria
The Extra Mile Challenge monitors driver performance across four key areas: Anticipation and Braking; Engine and Gear Utilisation; Speed Adaptation; and Standstill.
Once national champions reach Ageo in April, the metrics for victory change slightly, with the four key areas reduced to three: Pre-drive Inspection; Fuel Efficient and Safe Driving; and Maneuvering and Parking Skills.
The most successful driver across all categories will be crowned UD's Ultimate Driver for 2020.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.