Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division believes the future of fun cars lies in the roar of a gas engine.
Toyota Gazoo Racing is making waves by sticking to its guns and continuing to build gas-powered sports cars. While the rest of the automotive industry rushes towards electrification, GR President Tomoya Takahashi has made it clear that Toyota isn’t jumping on the all-electric bandwagon just yet. Instead, it’s doubling down on internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, and even hydrogen-powered combustion engines.
Gazoo Racing, the performance arm of Toyota, has been known for producing some of the most exciting sports cars on the market, like the GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla. None of these models feature any form of electrification, and according to Takahashi, there are no immediate plans to change that. “We want to use internal combustion engines as much as possible,” he told CarExpert. “There may be a time in the future when engines are banned, but internal combustion engines aren’t bad; the enemy is carbon.”
One of the most intriguing aspects of Toyota’s strategy is its exploration of hydrogen-powered combustion engines. It’s been testing this technology in motorsport, and there’s a possibility we could see a Yamaha-designed hydrogen-powered V8 with 450 horsepower in future models. This approach allows Toyota to stick with the familiar and beloved characteristics of ICE while addressing carbon emissions.
In addition to hydrogen power, hybrids are also on the table for future GR models. Hybrid technology can enhance performance, improve fuel economy, and reduce emissions. Takahashi hinted at this multi-faceted approach, saying, “By using hybrid technology, we can reduce carbon emissions, and we can also use carbon-neutral fuels.” He stressed GR’s goal isn’t just to produce fast cars, but to make fun and engaging vehicles that customers will enjoy driving. “There is a difference between a fast car and a good car. We want to make better cars,” he added.
This philosophy sets Toyota apart from other manufacturers who are heavily focused on acceleration figures and lap times. While many automakers are struggling to meet the rising demand for electric vehicles, Toyota is taking a step back to reassess the future of mobility. Takahashi pointed out that globally, there are ongoing discussions about the viability of an all-electric future, and Toyota is not convinced that EVs are the only solution. “Nobody can see 10 years into the future. Our direction is multi-pathway, not only EV,” he said.
Toyota’s approach is becoming increasingly relevant as other car manufacturers begin to face the reality that electrification isn’t progressing as smoothly as anticipated. Sales of EVs have started to cool, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids are gaining popularity. This shift is prompting brands like General Motors and Mercedes-Benz to reconsider their electrification plans and reintroduce hybrid models.
Despite the industry’s shift towards electric power, Toyota’s commitment to ICE, hybrids, and hydrogen technology is a bold move that could pay off in the long run. By focusing on building cars that are enjoyable to drive and environmentally friendly, Toyota is ensuring they have a diverse portfolio that can adapt to future market demands and regulations.
Indeed, Toyota Gazoo Racing’s commitment to internal combustion engines, hybrid technology, and hydrogen power showcases a unique and multi-faceted approach to the future of performance cars. By prioritizing fun and engaging driving experiences, Toyota is setting itself apart in an industry increasingly dominated by electrification. For now, it seems, the roar of a Toyota engine is here to stay.
