Toyota Motor : GAZOO Racing to further advance FCEV development through the Dakar Rally

About this update from Toyota Motor Corp.

GAZOO Racing will enter a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in the 2027 Dakar Rally Based on the DKR GR Hilux, the DKR GR FC Hilux prototype will compete in the Dakar Future Mission 1000 category for experimental vehicles As part of its commitment to making ever-better motorsports-bred cars, GAZOO Racing aims to support the further advancement of FCEV technology, with a focus on fuel cell downsizing, improved cooling and enhanced durability GAZOO Racing will enter the DKR GR FC Hilux, a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), in the 2027 Dakar Rally as part of its commitment to making ever-better motorsports-bred cars. The project represents a new challenge to demonstrate hydrogen fuel cell technology in the demanding conditions of the Dakar Rally. Based on the DKR GR Hilux, which has already proven itself in Dakar's top category, the DKR GR FC Hilux replaces its petrol engine with Toyota's fuel cell system. It emits no CO₂ while driving, with water as its only tailpipe emission. The hostile Dakar environment, characterised by high temperatures, rough terrain and long stages, provides an ideal proving ground for fuel cell technology. To deliver high performance safely and reliably in these conditions, the project will focus on fuel cell downsizing, optimum cooling, durability and energy management. Lessons learned from developing and operating the DKR GR FC Hilux in one of the world's toughest motorsport environments will contribute to the wider application of fuel cell technology in passenger cars, trucks, buses, trains, marine applications, race cars and stationary power generators. Engineers involved in the project will also develop problem-solving skills through hands-on, on-site experience in this high-pressure environment, supporting their future contributions to vehicle development. Testing and tuning of the FCEV powertrain and its software, together with vehicle build-up, have commenced in Belgium. A test programme will be conducted progressively in the coming months. The Dakar Rally will be held in Saudi Arabia from January 1 to January 15, 2027, with King Abdullah Economic City serving as the starting and finishing point. This gruelling course pushes both vehicles and drivers to their limits as it winds its way through sand dunes, rocky unpaved roads, and dry riverbeds. The DKR GR FC Hilux will compete in the Dakar Future Mission 1000 category, which...

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