Toyota, known for its pioneering work in hydrogen fuel cell technology, is intensifying its development of hydrogen-powered engines, particularly for motorsport applications.
The automaker has been competing in the Super Taikyu Series in Japan since 2021, utilizing a hydrogen-powered Toyota Corolla. Additionally, Toyota has participated in super endurance racing in Thailand and successfully completed the Fuji 24 Hours with the hydrogen-engined car.
Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota, expressed his vision of achieving carbon neutrality without compromising the speed and excitement of racing. He emphasized the thrilling aspects of hydrogen technology, such as sound, torque, and dynamics, stating that Toyota would pursue every technology, including hydrogen and battery electric power, in its quest for carbon neutrality.
Toyota sees motorsport as a platform to refine its technologies and collaborate with like-minded partners in the automotive industry. The company aims to contribute to the production, transportation, and utilization of hydrogen, ultimately working towards a carbon-neutral society. While Toyota acknowledges that it is halfway through the development process for hydrogen-powered engines in road cars, the company remains committed to exploring this technology. However, Toyota maintains an open approach, recognizing the diversity of customer requirements and markets worldwide.
To underscore its commitment, Toyota unveiled the Toyota GR H2 Racing Concept at Le Mans, coinciding with the race’s 100th anniversary. The company plans to compete with a hydrogen-engined prototype at the 2026 Le Mans 24 Hours, taking advantage of the newly created hydrogen class. The organizers have pledged to use balance of performance rules to ensure fair competition between hydrogen-powered cars and conventional racing machines. By 2030, the goal is for all cars at Le Mans to be hydrogen-powered, with hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen combustion engines both permitted.
Although technical details about the Toyota GR H2 Racing Concept are limited, it features a hydrogen engine integrated with a hybrid system. Toyota’s hydrogen engine prototype, the “GR H2 Racing Concept,” aligns with the company’s aspirations for hydrogen-powered racing in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) from 2026. The WEC promoter, the Automobile Club de l’Ouest, aims to have hydrogen-powered cars competing on par with existing machinery by 2026.
Toyota’s commitment to hydrogen-powered engines in motorsport demonstrates its belief in the potential of hydrogen as a path to zero-emissions mobility. By leveraging its expertise and collaboration with industry partners, Toyota aims to shape a future where hydrogen plays a significant role in achieving carbon neutrality and delivering exciting racing experiences.
