GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks has kicked off its 2012-2013 Vista competition for technicians around the world.

Volvo refers to the event as the world’s largest competition for aftermarket personnel. More than 200 three- and four-person teams compete on behalf of Volvo dealers across North America, with an aim to represent the continent in the global competition next June in Gothenburg, Sweden. Around the world, more than 4,440 teams are participating.

The last Vista event in 2011 saw Beaver Truck Centre of Winnipeg, Man. represent North America in the global championships.

“Expert Volvo technicians and skilled aftermarket personnel are vitally important to the success of our customers and our dealer operations,” said Magnus Koeck, Volvo Trucks vice-president, marketing and brand management. “Rapidly advancing onboard technologies and the increasing need for an integrated vehicle design continue to place a great emphasis on technicians with intimate knowledge of all Volvo systems.”

This year’s edition is the largest in the event’s 55-year history, Volvo says.

Participants work through three rounds of online technical questions and then five teams are selected to travel to Greensboro, N.C. for the North American finals. All the answers to the written questions can be found in Volvo service and parts literature. Finalists are then tested on their knowledge of service bulletins and ability to look up parts and service information within the Volvo system.

There’s also a hands-on component, which tests participants’ ability to troubleshoot predetermined faults placed on Volvo trucks and engines.

Meanwhile, Volvo has announced it’s partnering with WyoTech to provide technician training programs tailored specifically to the chassis, powertrain, emissions, electronic and electrical systems of Volvo trucks.