Toyota's Racing Transition: From GR010 HYBRID to Hydrogen-Powered Prototype
Key Ideas
- Toyota plans to race both its current GR010 HYBRID Hypercar and a first-generation hydrogen-powered prototype in the first season under new hydrogen regulations.
- The next-generation regulations incorporating hydrogen are still being finalized, with decisions pending on fuel cell vs. combustion, pit stops, and lap times.
- Expectation for three races for hydrogen cars in the opening season, showcasing cutting-edge high-performance hydrogen technology.
- Toyota will run the GR010 HYBRID alongside the hydrogen system due to complexities in simultaneous development, with potential performance upgrades discussed.
Toyota is gearing up for a significant racing transition as it prepares to include a first-generation hydrogen-powered prototype alongside its current GR010 HYBRID Hypercar in the FIA World Endurance Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours. The introduction of new regulations for hydrogen-powered prototypes, delayed to 2028, has spurred Toyota's plans to compete with both car models simultaneously. While the regulations incorporating hydrogen are still under development, key decisions remain pending, including fuel type, storage options, and race dynamics. Thierry Bouvet from the ACO emphasizes the desire for an open ruleset to showcase various technologies, not limited to hydrogen. Toyota expects to participate in three hydrogen races in the opening season, highlighting the rapid advancements in high-performance hydrogen technology. Despite uncertainties surrounding the timeline for hydrogen car development, Toyota remains optimistic about meeting the 2028 target. The brand acknowledges the complexities of replacing the GR010 HYBRID with a new hydrogen system simultaneously, hinting at potential performance upgrades instead. The ACO's allowance of additional joker upgrades for the upcoming seasons reflects a commitment to facilitating innovation and evolution in competitive racing.