MTS Logistics driver takes Renault Trucks UK Optifuel Challenge crown

Steve Rountree, a driver for MTS Logistics, has won the Renault Trucks 2017 Optifuel Challenge National Final, achieving the best fuel consumption without sacrificing commercial speed.

Roundtree, who fended off competition from six other drivers in the final, received £1,000 to spend in the Renault Trucks Reward Store, and will go on to represent the UK at the Optifuel Challenge Grand Final in Madrid on 17-19 October with the chance to win a truck for his company.

Martin Elwick of Clugston Group took second place, while Matthew Worden from Matthew Kibble finished third. They received £500 and £250 of Renault Trucks Reward Store vouchers respectively.

The biennial Optifuel Challenge gives participants the chance to compete behind the wheel of a Range T480 Optifuel truck, boasting the latest efficiency innovations. Equipped with aerodynamic features such as roof deflectors, side deflectors, side fairings and fairing extension, its 13-litre Euro-6 Step C engines with common rail injection systems are equipped with power mode override, eco-cruise control with Optiroll (a controlled free-wheeling mode), a disengageable air compressor, a variable-flow steering pump and automatic engine stop feature. This newest generation of trucks also features the Optivision predictive speed regulator, which uses a GPS connection to adapt gear shifting, acceleration and speed according to route topography.

The Grand Final will see Rountree take on winners from across 30 participating countries at an all-expenses paid event, where the overall champion will be presented with a Range T480 Optifuel truck for their company and their choice of vouchers to the value of €6,000 (£5,550) for themselves.

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