Qatar-based Kanwardalip Singh has been rated as the fourth best driver in the world during The UD Extra Mile Challenge 2022 global final in Japan.
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.
Fighting off the top out 30 drivers from across the region, Singh took place in a competition including 11 elite drivers from around the world at the October event.
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.
To compete in the final, the drivers had to win their 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, explained UD Trucks.
Kandarwalip Singh drives for Gulf Construction Machinery in Qatar and finished top in the regional qualifying, securing his place as the only representative from the Middle East to participate in the final stage of the challenge.
Commenting on finishing fourth in the final, Singh said: “My participation in the UD Extra Mile Challenge was a true honour, even if I didn’t win. But has motivated me to continue driving safely and efficiently, and it was a truly wonderful experience meeting and competing with other drivers from around the world.”
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 representing Japan in the Quon category, and Mr. Chawin Chalermyart representing Thailand in the Quester category.
Mourad Hedna, president of UD Trucks MEENA, added: “The highly skilled drivers who participated in this competition deserve our sincere appreciation. They are an integral part of the company’s commitment to improving logistics efficiency, reducing traffic accidents, as well as reducing our environmental impact. Kandarwalip represented the Middle East with the greatest professionalism, and exemplified the high standards we seek from both our drivers and trucks”
Driver Notes: What is The UD Extra Mile Challenge?
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.
