"Gazoo Racing (GR) is based on Toyota's development philosophy of nurturing people and technology through motorsport to create better cars," said Lee Byung-jin, Vice President of Toyota Korea, during an event at Ajou University in Boryeong on July 2. He spoke about the philosophy of GR ahead of the launch of the '2026 GR Motorsport Class' organized by Toyota Korea.
GR represents Toyota's motorsport division, participating in various competitions such as the World Rally Championship (WRC) and endurance races. Toyota aims to leverage the experiences and technologies gained from these extreme racing situations to develop better vehicles. The division was previously known as 'Toyota Gazoo Racing' but was renamed 'Gazoo Racing' in January to reflect its founding spirit.
Through GR, Toyota is actively engaged in the development of various vehicles. Yoo Min-ha, a manager at Toyota Korea, noted, "Hydrogen, being a very light substance, is challenging to handle," but emphasized that Toyota aims for a 'Multi Pathway' approach, providing a range of vehicles including electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and hydrogen engines.
During practical training at the driving practice facility, participants experienced the excitement of motorsport as various vehicles raced on the track. Before the gymkhana training began, they participated in a ride-along experience focusing on the fundamental motorsport technique of circular turning. As the vehicle tilted and the tires gripped the road, participants felt their bodies sway side to side, highlighting the instructor's precise vehicle control.
In the gymkhana course, participants navigated through a zigzag pattern marked by cones, showcasing the stable driving performance of the Toyota Prius PHEV. At the starting point, the instructor advised, "Press the accelerator only 50% and keep the steering at the '9 o'clock and 15-minute' position." Although the driving time was brief, lasting about 30 seconds, the vehicle responded nimbly to even slight adjustments.
Additionally, participants experienced a drift ride with the instructor at the wheel. As the car entered a corner, the rear wheels slid, causing the vehicle to sway significantly. However, the instructor's skilled vehicle control remained steady even in extreme conditions, demonstrating the high-performance capabilities of the Toyota GR86. This moment underscored that Toyota's commitment to creating better cars ultimately begins with the accumulation of human skill and experience.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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