Toyota Showcases Green Concepts at ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2025
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Toyota showcased its commitment to sustainability at the recent ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2025 race held at Fuji Speedway, Japan. The event witnessed the participation of two of Toyota’s innovative green concepts: the #28 TGRR GR86 Future FR Concept and the #32 TGRR GR Corolla H2 Concept.
The #28 GR86 Future FR Concept is powered by low-carbon gasoline (E20) produced by ENEOS Corporation. This fuel is created using approximately 20% bioethanol derived from plant sources such as corn and sugarcane, which have the capacity to absorb CO2 during their growth, thereby reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. The race provided a challenging environment to test and gather technical feedback on the E20 fuel.
On the other hand, the GR Corolla H2 Concept is fueled by liquid hydrogen. To extend the vehicle’s range, Toyota introduced a unique oval-shaped fuel tank, which is then filled with liquid hydrogen. This concept showcases Toyota’s innovative approach to alternative fuels.
Toyota also introduced new technologies at the race, including a combustion mode-switching technology that optimizes fuel efficiency based on the driver’s acceleration behavior. Additionally, they unveiled an improved hydrogen intake valve with an inner piston structure, enhancing hydrogen charging speed and reducing the risk of leaks. Toyota has also replaced some of the copper wiring in the vehicle with aluminum, resulting in an 18% weight reduction, improved performance, and reduced fuel consumption.
Toyota’s participation in this race highlights its belief in exploring diverse paths to sustainability beyond just electric vehicles. The company is a strong advocate for liquid hydrogen fuel, considering it a perfect clean technology as it only emits pure water vapor. Toyota has addressed the challenge of hydrogen storage by dividing the storage tanks into smaller compartments, reducing the risk of explosions. The remaining hurdle is the high cost of producing liquid hydrogen fuel, which could be mitigated by creating a larger market for such vehicles.
Toyota has expressed its commitment to collaborating with other automakers to share its vision of a carbon-neutral society. The company emphasizes the importance of liquid hydrogen and E20 gasoline in its future carbon-neutral plans. Additionally, Toyota pledges to continue working with partners to develop sustainable mobility solutions, striving towards a greener society and creating ever-better cars.
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Toyota’s president, Akio Toyoda, has been vocal about his skepticism towards the sole reliance on electric vehicles. In an interview with Automotive News, he stated, “In light of the growing popularity of the carbon-neutral concept, we identified that COâ‚‚ is the biggest challenge we face. We need to focus on actions that can reduce these emissions immediately. This forms the basis for all our decisions, and it will not change.”
Mr. Toyoda has consistently offered contrarian views to the global trend, predicting that electric vehicles will only account for around 30% of global car sales even in the long term. He has also warned about the potential loss of 5.5 million jobs in Japan due to a rapid shift to electric vehicles, highlighting the importance of a diverse energy strategy.
Toyota’s cautious approach aims to ensure a sustainable transition that considers environmental, economic, and social factors. The company is pursuing multiple paths to sustainability, including hybrid, plug-in hybrid, electric, and fuel-cell electric vehicles, as well as exploring the potential of biofuels and liquid hydrogen.
In Vietnam, Toyota has not yet introduced electric vehicles, believing that hybrid technology is a more practical solution for immediate emission reduction. To date, Toyota has sold over 16,000 hybrid vehicles in the country, offering a range of models from affordable to premium options. Toyota’s hybrid vehicles provide Vietnamese customers with a popular green choice, diversifying the market beyond the electric vehicle trend.
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