Toyota's Gazoo Racing bets on combustion engines amidst electric shift

Toyota's motorsport and sports car division, Gazoo Racing, continues to invest heavily in ICE technology. GR president Tomoya Takahashi emphasised that the division plans to utilise combustion engines as extensively as possible. “There may be a time in the future when engines are banned, but internal combustion engines aren't bad; the enemy is carbon," Takahashi said. This statement underscores Toyota's belief that ICE vehicles can coexist with efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

The future of electric performance models

Despite the growing popularity of EVs, Toyota has no immediate plans to introduce a performance EV under the GR brand. This decision raises questions about the fate of the FT-Se concept car. Revealed in October 2023 at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, the FT-Se evoked memories of the MR2 with its dual motors, all-wheel drive, and impressive performance claims. However, the likelihood of its production remains uncertain.

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Hybrid and synthetic fuel solutions

While pure EVs are not on GR’s immediate agenda, hybrid technology is seen as a viable alternative. Takahashi mentioned that hybrid systems could help reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, Toyota is exploring synthetic fuels and hydrogen-powered combustion engines as part of their strategy to maintain ICE relevance in a low-carbon future.

Upcoming projects

GR continues to develop new models, including a performance SUV and an automatic version of the GR Corolla. Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand, is also leveraging GR's technology. Lexus plans to use the 1.6-litre turbo engine from the GR Corolla in its upcoming LBZ concept, a small crossover with 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Why Toyota sticks with ICE?

Toyota’s commitment to ICE stems from a belief in their continued viability alongside efforts to combat carbon emissions. This stance is partly driven by the technological advancements in hybrid systems and synthetic fuels, which offer potential pathways to cleaner combustion engines. Moreover, Toyota's cautious approach to EVs reflects a strategic preference for gradual integration of new technologies rather than a wholesale shift.

While the automotive industry accelerates towards electrification, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing is betting on the enduring relevance of combustion engines. This strategy balances the pursuit of performance with evolving environmental standards, ensuring that ICE vehicles remain a key part of Toyota’s portfolio in the foreseeable future.