Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) is the motorsports division of the renowned Japanese automaker Toyota. As a powerhouse in the world of racing, TGR has established itself as a force to be reckoned with, earning numerous accolades and championships across various motorsport disciplines. Here are ten key things to know about Toyota Gazoo Racing:
- Legacy and Heritage: Toyota Gazoo Racing's roots can be traced back to the early 1950s when Toyota began participating in motorsports events. Over the years, the division has built a rich heritage and gained valuable experience in a wide range of racing disciplines, including endurance racing, rally racing, and touring car championships.
- Global Motorsport Presence: TGR has a global presence, participating in renowned motorsport events and championships around the world. The team competes in prestigious races such as the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the World Rally Championship (WRC), and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, among others.
- Success in Endurance Racing: TGR has achieved remarkable success in endurance racing, particularly in the FIA WEC and the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. The team has won multiple championships and secured victories at Le Mans, including the historic back-to-back wins in 2018 and 2019 with their groundbreaking Toyota TS050 Hybrid race car.
- Commitment to Hybrid Technology: TGR has been at the forefront of promoting and developing hybrid technology in motorsports. The team's success in endurance racing with their hybrid race cars has showcased the potential of hybrid powertrains in delivering both performance and efficiency on the track.
- Rally Racing Heritage: Toyota Gazoo Racing has a strong presence in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The team returned to the championship in 2017 and has since achieved notable victories and podium finishes. Their commitment to rally racing reflects Toyota's heritage in the sport, dating back to the iconic Toyota Celica and Toyota Corolla rally cars of the past.
- Grassroots Motorsport: TGR also recognizes the importance of grassroots motorsport in nurturing talent and fostering a passion for racing. The team supports various motorsport programs, including the Toyota Gazoo Racing Rally Challenge, which provides aspiring rally drivers with opportunities to develop their skills and compete at a professional level.
- Development of Performance Road Cars: TGR's involvement in motorsports extends beyond racing. The division uses its experiences and technologies gained from racing to develop high-performance road cars. Models like the Toyota GR Supra and Toyota GR Yaris showcase TGR's dedication to bringing the excitement and performance of motorsports to the streets.
- Technical Innovation: Toyota Gazoo Racing embraces innovation and technology in its pursuit of motorsport excellence. The team constantly pushes the boundaries of engineering, exploring new materials, aerodynamic advancements, and cutting-edge technologies to enhance the performance and reliability of their race cars.
- Team Spirit and Passion: TGR's success can be attributed not only to technical prowess but also to the unwavering team spirit and passion that drives the entire organization. The team consists of highly skilled engineers, drivers, and support staff who share a common goal of achieving greatness on the race track.
- Dedication to "Making Ever-Better Cars": Toyota Gazoo Racing's mission aligns with Toyota's overarching philosophy of "making ever-better cars." By participating in motorsports, TGR continuously tests and improves its vehicles, translating those advancements into production cars that deliver enhanced performance, safety, and driving pleasure to customers worldwide.
Summarily, Toyota Gazoo Racing is a dominant force in the world of motorsports, with a rich legacy, global presence, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance, technology, and hybrid innovation. Through their successes in endurance racing, rally racing, and grassroots motorsport programs, TGR embodies Toyota's passion for motorsports and its commitment to creating exceptional vehicles for enthusiasts around the world.