Kiwis do battle in Japan

Isuzu’s Team NZ has achieved fourth place at the Isuzu Motors I1GP technical competition in Japan.

The annual event, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, brings together the world’s best Isuzu-trained technicians to compete in practical and theory-based problem-solving exercises. 

The competition held in Yokohama last week featured 37 teams from Isuzu markets around the world, each comprising a coach and two technicians. 

The New Zealand team, consisting of coach Jono Ward, of Blackwells Isuzu, and technicians Alex Farquhar from Blackwells and Logan Winter from Wadsco Trucks, came within three points of claiming third. Winter was recognised as the sixth best among 74 contestants.

The I1GP has been a cornerstone event for Isuzu's global network, fostering technical excellence and innovation among service professionals. Kiwi teams have enjoyed considerable success over the years with multiple top placings.

“We’re very proud of Team NZ’s achievement,” says David Ballantyne, general manager of Isuzu NZ. “This continues the history of regular top placings in the event’s team and individual sections.

“We have some very skilled Isuzu techs in our dealer network to support customers and the I1GP competition has been important in developing that skill base.

“Also, I would also like to thank Blackwells Isuzu and Wadsco Trucks for allowing the team members to train and participate in the competition, which is a big commitment.”

The practical challenges they face in the competition test their diagnostic abilities, problem-solving skills and knowledge of Isuzu’s latest technologies and service procedures.