Australia has claimed victory in the UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge, with driver Matt Modra from MA & RC Modra in Adelaide finishing first overall.

Last week, Matt competed in the global final at the UD Trucks Experience Centre in Ageo, Japan, following his participation in the local Australian qualifying round.

Over four weeks of competition he achieved the highest score across the performance criteria of power mode, manual mode, coasting and overall fuel efficiency – all of which were tracked remotely through UD Connect telematics.

Launched in 2015, the UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge is a skills-based driver competition that tests several key areas, aiming to demonstrate how improvements in driver behaviour can translate to safer driving, improved fuel consumption and reduced wear and tear on vehicles.

By doing so, the competition aims to support UD’s Better Life purpose, and also seeks to recognise and celebrate the industry’s unsung heroes that keep the nation moving – truck drivers.

Image: Volvo Trucks

“Not only was it rewarding to qualify for the Extra Mile Challenge Final in Japan, but going on to win the competition for Australia was a real honour,” Matt says.

“Experiencing the world of UD Trucks in Ageo was very special. As an owner and operator of a UD Quon, it was interesting to understand UD’s history and operations in Japan and to meet the faces behind the brand.

“I’m a big believer in the idea that the day you stop learning is the day you get left behind, and by being a part of this competition, I’ve learnt more than I could have imagined and have met some fantastic people along the way.”

Matt excelled in the global final challenges, which included a round of vehicle pre-inspection, test track driving of a loaded Quon GK prime mover, where fuel consumption, speed, braking and safety criteria were assessed, as well as a reverse parking challenge.

Throughout the competition, Matt was expertly coached by Patrick Ryan, Volvo Group Australia’s Key Account Handover & Delivery Manager, and UD Trucks’ designated Driver Trainer.

Image: Volvo Trucks

By utilising his UD Quon’s standard onboard coaching system, Nenpi Coach, Matt enhanced his overall driving technique, improving overall safety and efficiency – most notably achieving an eight to 10 per cent improvement in his fuel efficiency during the local round.

“The UD Trucks Australia team is thrilled about Matt’s epic win for Australia, and we congratulate him on his outstanding performance,” UD Trucks Australia Vice President Philippa Wood says.

“The skill, passion, commitment and grace demonstrated by Matt throughout the competition is a testament to his UD spirit and his willingness to Go the Extra Mile.

“Matt’s expertise and eagerness, paired with the UD driver development services he received throughout the challenge, including Nenpi Coach and driver trainer, gave him a competitive edge in the challenge.

“We’re grateful to have had the opportunity to compete in the UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge on the global stage and we congratulate all participants and markets on their impressive performances.”