Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Hydrogen-Driven GR H2 Concept Debuts at Le Mans

• Toyota unveils hydrogen-driven GR H2 Racing Concept, marking a significant step in sustainable motorsports.

• The GR H2 aims for carbon neutrality, combining thrilling dynamics with zero-emissions in endurance racing.

Toyota unveiled its hydrogen engine vehicle prototype, the “GR H2 Racing Concept”, at a press conference held by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) at Circuit de la Sarthe in France. Revealed by Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, the GR H2 Racing Concept is developed with an eye toward future competition, following ACO’s recent decision to allow hydrogen-engine vehicles to compete alongside fuel cell electric vehicles in the Le Mans 24 Hours race’s hydrogen category.

Akio Toyoda expressed his vision of achieving carbon neutrality in motorsports without compromising on performance or excitement, embodying Toyota‘s pledge to the future of sustainable mobility. He emphasized that the GR H2 race car offers thrilling dynamics and formidable torque while remaining zero-emissions.

Furthermore, Toyoda paid tribute to the centenary of the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race, expressing gratitude for the unique opportunity this renowned race provides to innovate and refine automotive technologies. Toyota has actively participated in various races, including the Super Taikyu Series with a hydrogen-engine Corolla, and the IDEMITSU 1500 SUPER ENDURANCE 2022 at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit, thereby enhancing its technologies in real-world, challenging environments.

Toyota’s racing activities reflect its commitment to accelerating the use of hydrogen towards achieving a carbon-neutral society. These efforts will also contribute to its pursuit of creating motorsports-bred cars. As such, the company eagerly anticipates participating in the new generation of Le Mans 24 races.

On this landmark occasion, ACO President Pierre Fillon saluted Toyota’s challenge, acknowledging the hydrogen project as a crucial step towards the creation of the Hydrogen category in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The unveiling of the GR H2 Racing Concept signifies not only a new chapter for Toyota but also underlines endurance racing’s commitment to promoting sustainable mobility solutions.

The Toyota Gazoo Racing GR H2 Racing Concept will be showcased at ACO’s “H2 Village” during the Le Mans race this weekend, marking another significant milestone in the progression of hydrogen-powered motorsports.