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Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge: Fuel Efficiency and Driver Skills

Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge: Fuel Efficiency and Driver Skills

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – The seventh edition of the Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge concluded, showcasing exceptional driving skills focused on maximizing fuel economy and contributing to the decarbonization of the transportation industry. This year’s competition recognized Mr. Fatorrahman from Indonesia as the Off-Road Champion and Mr. Euihwan Choi from Korea as the On-Road Champion, highlighting the critical role of skilled drivers in modern transport. The Driver Challenge’s primary goal is to elevate the visibility of truck drivers and attract younger generations to this vital career path, addressing the global shortage of trained drivers. Recognizing the constantly evolving needs of the transport industry, Volvo Trucks has long prioritized driver environment design and truck drivability, embodying the ‘You win, we all win’ concept. This philosophy underscores the continuous opportunities for improvement in driving skills, rewarding dedication and expertise. The competition directly addresses the challenges truck drivers face daily, directly impacting customer productivity and profitability. Moreover, drivers play a significant role in enhancing road safety, a core value for Volvo Trucks. The finals provided a remarkable display of driving prowess, demonstrating the impact of skill and precision.

Anna Engblom, Managing Director for Southeast Asia & Japan at Volvo Trucks, emphasized that the Driver Challenge is a key mechanism for delivering Volvo’s deep expertise in fuel economy throughout the entire lifecycle of their trucks. Volvo Connect data, including Fuel Efficiency Scores, is central to the competition. These scores, derived from metrics like speed adaptation, engine and gear utilization, anticipation, and braking, directly translate to reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions, improved safety, and extended vehicle lifespan – all vital components of the Driver Challenge. The competition’s global reach expanded this year, attracting participation from 13 markets across the Middle East, Asia, Oceania, and Australia.

Beyond the overall champions, specific awards recognized excellence in key areas. ‘Best Fuel-Efficient Driving’ was awarded to Anthony Marshall (Australia) and Sangyoun Park (Korea), while ‘Best Transport Mission / High Productivity’ was presented to Amnart Phengphet (Thailand) and Ryan Balanueco (Philippines). Finally, ‘On-Time Delivery’ was achieved by Bedirhan Ugur Karsli (Turkey) and Sangyoun Park (Korea). The Volvo Trucks Driver Challenge, now in its thirteenth year since 2009, continues to be a powerful demonstration of Volvo’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and driver development. The event’s success highlights the intersection of skilled driving, technological advancements, and environmental responsibility within the transportation sector.