Extra Mile Challenge

Two large trucks parked side by side with five people standing between them.

UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge – Ultimate drivers keep the world moving!

The UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge brings together top drivers from around the world to compete for the title of “ULTIMATE DRIVER.”

Finalists who have qualified through competitions in their respective markets will gather in Japan for the Global Final.

Follow the journey of these outstanding drivers who keep the world moving.

What is the UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge?

UD Extra Mile Challenge is a global competition for drivers from transport companies around the world.

Qualification competitions are held in each market, with the winners earning the opportunity to compete in the Global Final in Japan.

Drivers are evaluated in three key areas:

Pre-driving daily vehicle inspection
Fuel-efficient and safety driving
Parking skills

The competition also assesses factors that contribute to transport efficiency, including vehicle speed, delivery time, fuel efficiency, safety, and smooth driving.

At the Global Final, the best drivers from each market put their skills to the test as they compete for the title of “ULTIMATE DRIVER.”

Drivers at the heart of smart logistics

Drivers are at the heart of smart logistics. Without truck drivers, the logistics networks that support our everyday lives simply could not function.

Exceptional driving skills are not developed overnight. Becoming an “ULTIMATE DRIVER” takes tens of thousands of kilometers of experience and a continuous commitment to refining one’s skills.

The UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge began as a comprehensive training program designed to help drivers further develop their skills.

As driver shortages become an increasingly serious issue around the world, UD Trucks is committed to providing trucks that drivers want to drive, while supporting our customers in reducing transport costs, driving more efficiently, and improving road safety.

Through the Extra Mile Challenge, we aim not only to help truck drivers further develop their skills, but also to share the joy of driving and raise awareness of the vital role drivers play in keeping the world’s logistics moving.

UD Extra Miles Challenge 2026

The global finals were held over two days, October 21 and 22, at the UD Experience Center located at UD Trucks’ headquarters. Crisanto de Sousa Sanches, representing Indonesia, won the Quester category on October 21, while Kazunori Akiyama, representing Japan, won the Quon category on October 22. Both earned the well-deserved title of “Ultimate Driver.

Quon category winner

Kazunori Akiyama (Japan)
Suzuyo Cargo Net Shizuoka Co., Ltd.

“I am extremely happy that I was able to turn the support of so many people into strength and achieve victory. The experience I gained by participating in this competition is a tremendous asset for me and my career. Thank you all very much.”

Quester category winner

Crisanto de Sousa Sanches (Indonesia)
BSA Logistics Indonesia

“Two years ago, I was the runner up in the local competition and told myself not to give up. Coming back to win both the Indonesia title and the Global Ultimate Driver for Quester makes this moment incredibly special. None of this would have been possible without the support of so many colleagues and friends. I hope this victory will open up greater opportunities for both the company and myself in the future.”