Toyota Gazoo Racing Unveils GR GT, GR GT3, and Lexus LFA Concept
Toyota Gazoo Racing has introduced its latest flagship sports car, the GR GT. This vehicle exemplifies the brand’s commitment to enhancing motorsport-inspired automobiles.
Collaborative Development
The GR GT was crafted through a collaborative effort involving a diverse group of drivers. Key contributors included Master Driver Morizo, professional racers such as Tatsuya Kataoka and Hiroaki Ishiura, and gentleman driver Daisuke Toyoda. Their collective insights began shaping the vehicle during the concept phase.
Performance-Driven Design
Every aspect of the GR GT’s design emphasizes the driver’s perspective, starting from the optimal driving position. Development has embraced a rigorous cycle of testing, known as the “hone, drive to failure, and repair.” This method ensures the car’s performance meets high expectations.
Challenges and Innovations
During development, the team faced numerous challenges. Master Driver Morizo encouraged continuous improvement, urging the engineers to “go all out” to refine the vehicle further. In response, the developers addressed a wide array of issues across design and manufacturing, leading to several innovative features.
Specifications Overview
The GR GT boasts several advanced technologies, marked as Toyota’s first implementations. Key specifications include:
- Vehicle Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
- Body Frame: All-aluminum for reduced weight and increased rigidity
- Power Unit: 4-liter V8 twin-turbo with dry-sump lubrication
- Drivetrain: Carbon-fiber torque tube with an 8-speed automatic transmission
- Electric Motor: Integrated into the rear transaxle
- Differential: Mechanical, limited-slip differential
Driving Experience
The design prioritizes aerodynamics and maintains a low center of gravity. This makes the GR GT accessible for drivers of various skill levels, allowing for an engaging driving experience. The development goal was to create a vehicle that supports a strong connection between the driver and the car.
Lexus LFA Concept
Alongside the GR GT, Toyota also showcased the Lexus LFA concept. This vehicle reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation in luxury sports cars, yet details are still emerging.
With both the GR GT and the Lexus LFA concept, Toyota Gazoo Racing reaffirms its dedication to performance, technology, and driver satisfaction in the evolving landscape of sports automobiles.
