TOYOTA CITY, Japan – Toyota Motor Corporation has announced its participation in the IDEMITSU SUPER ENDURANCE SOUTHEAST ASIA TROPHY 2023, popularly known as the Thailand 10-hour Endurance Race. This event, scheduled for December 22 and 23 at the Chang International Circuit in Thailand, is a significant move in Toyota’s quest for carbon neutrality.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Toyota will field a three-vehicle setup for ROOKIE Racing, featuring the ORC ROOKIE GR86 CNF concept, the ORC ROOKIE GR Corolla H2 concept, and the CP ROOKIE PRIUS CNF-HEV GR concept. Particularly noteworthy is the Prius HEV, which runs on carbon-neutral fuel and is based on a production model. This marks the first competitive appearance of a production Prius HEV in such a race.
Toyota’s efforts don’t stop with the Prius. The GR86 and the hydrogen-powered Corolla will also be competing, further showcasing the company’s commitment to exploring diverse fuel options. This approach is a key part of Toyota’s strategy to achieve a carbon-neutral society, particularly in Asia and Thailand.
Moreover, Toyota GAZOO Racing, through its participation in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), has refined its Racing Hybrid technology. This expertise is now being applied to the Prius to enhance the synergy between enjoyable driving and fuel efficiency. The entry of the Prius in the endurance race is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to evolving HEV technology in the competitive racing environment.
In addition to technological advancement, Toyota is collaborating with various partners to promote sustainable energy practices. For instance, biogas generated from chicken manure and food waste will be used as part of the fuel for the hydrogen-powered Corolla. This initiative is a collaborative effort with Charoen Pokphand Group and Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing Co.
Furthermore, Toyota will unveil an FC drone at the event, developed in collaboration with CP. This demonstration is part of a larger initiative to showcase the production, transport, and use of hydrogen in Thailand, setting a precedent for future efforts across Asia.
Through these innovative strategies and collaborations, Toyota is not just participating in a motorsport event; it is leading the charge in sustainable racing and the development of carbon-neutral vehicles. This participation in the Thailand 10-hour Endurance Race is a crucial step in Toyota’s journey towards a carbon-neutral future, setting a new standard in the intersection of motorsports and environmental responsibility.