Bukit Jelutong, Shah Alam, 18 February, 2015 – The Scania Driver Competitions (SDC) is one of the most recognized competition for drivers of trucks and buses in Malaysia, given the high level of skill required of the drivers and stringent judging criteria.

In addition to the high standards, the 2014/2015 edition will be even tougher now with the participation of drivers from Singapore, thus raising the stakes of the competition.

Based on the quality and successes of the preceding editions, MICHELIN, the market leader in tyre technology, has returned to the SDC as the Official Sponsor for the fourth time since this competition was held in Malaysia given the brand’s perfect compatibility with Scania’s trucks and buses.

“Choosing the right tyres are critical to the performance of drivers who are entrusted to carry very heavy loads that could vary from dangerous goods to ever precious passengers with powerful Scania vehicles. With MICHELIN tyres the Scania drivers are assured of excellent road-holding for safety and fuel economy throughout their journeys. MICHELIN’s innovative range of tyres caters to different types of usage and road conditions and deliver the right level of performance across the board, fulfilling Scania’s many requirements,” stated Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Beltran Yturriaga.

It is an accepted fact that tyres will contribute to the effectiveness of braking in an emergency situation. Good drivers know that vehicles fitted with MICHELIN tyres should be able to brake promptly and with a comfortable distance margin to spare towards any obstacle.

 “We are excited to once again be part of this prestigious competition and will give our fullest support to Scania for promoting skill sets to these drivers and elevating the standards of safety in the transportation industry in Malaysia,” Beltran added.

Started in 2003, over 100,000 drivers from 50 countries have taken part in this successful initiative to elevate the status of drivers worldwide.

“Drivers are the single most important asset for an operator in terms of fuel-efficient and safe driving,” said Ian Tan, Marketing and Communications Manager, Scania Southeast Asia. “We are happy to have MICHELIN share this same belief. A well-trained and well-coached driver can get the best out of a Scania with MICHELIN tyres.”

Up to RM50,000 worth of prizes are to be won. Submission forms can be obtained from www.scania.com.my and Scania Malaysia branches and have to be submitted before 31 May, 2015 at the branches or smyenquiries@scania.com. Shortlisted finalists for both categories will then vie to be the champion at the practical test in August 2015.

Now open to all drivers of trucks and buses from Malaysia and Singapore (T & C No. 9 in the submission form no longer apply), participants of the SDC 2014/2015 can test and practice their skills before the main event, at a mini Scania Driver Competition 2015 which will be held at the Scania exhibition area at the Malaysia International Bus Truck and Components (MIBTC) exhibition from 14th to 16th of May, 2015.  Along with the general public with valid driving licenses, these drivers can try a simple truck obstacle course to win prizes!

Official partners of the SDC include Scania Credit Malaysia, Jabatan Keselamatan Jalan Raya (JKJR), Malaysian Institute of Road Safety (MIROS) and the Swedish Embassy in Malaysia.