In December 2021, Toyota organised a press conference to unveil a collection of 15 electric vehicle prototypes. Over time, several of these concepts have transformed into actual cars for public use. However, there remains one particular model that hasn’t been manufactured yet. Shown in the accompanying image, the Sports EV teased the possibility of an electric sports car featuring a removable roof section and bearing the Gazoo Racing emblem. Recently, an updated plan outlining the introduction of emission-free vehicles mentioned the forthcoming launch of a high-performance automobile, expected to debut no later than 2026.
Given the context, it’s not entirely unexpected that Toyota is currently conducting trials for an electric GR sports car. The chairman of the company, Akio Toyoda, mentioned in an interview with Autocar that he recently had the chance to personally test a prototype. However, he remains uncertain about whether this specific project will materialise within the next three years. Regardless of which car ultimately emerges, Toyoda emphasised the importance of ensuring an enjoyable driving experience, even in the absence of a traditional combustion engine, in order to uphold the esteemed GR emblem.
Curiously, Toyoda mentioned a key aim is to incorporate a manual gearbox featuring a clutch pedal. Furthermore, the performance electric vehicle (EV) is planned to emit “engine sounds, even in the absence of petrol smell.” The resemblances to a traditionally fueled sports car will be so pronounced that distinguishing between an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an EV will be challenging for individuals.
Unbeknownst to many, Lexus, Toyota’s renowned luxury brand, has unveiled an extraordinary sports car that operates without emissions. The Electrified Sport Concept, set to succeed the V10-powered LFA, has taken the spotlight. What sets it apart is not only the inclusion of a manual transmission with three pedals and a tachometer, but also its groundbreaking features, such as steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems. Additionally, the production version will boast all-wheel drive, employing an electric motor in the front and another in the rear. According to Lexus, this concept car can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under two seconds and cover an impressive distance of over 435 miles (700 kilometers) on a single charge.
Common sense suggests that the upcoming Lexus Electrified Sport designed for on-road use will carry a significantly higher price tag compared to Toyota’s electric GR sports car. According to Toyoda, the latter will resemble an electric vehicle externally. Both Japanese automakers have been discussing the implementation of solid-state batteries, and it is probable that these batteries will be utilised in the indirect successor to the LFA. Autocar, in their estimation, anticipates a starting price of £500,000 ($633,000 based on current exchange rates) for this vehicle, making it considerably more expensive than the original £350,000 price of the LFA.
Earlier this month, Koji Sato, the recently appointed CEO and President of Toyota, shared exciting news about upcoming models under the GR lineup. During the recent 24 Hours of Le Mans event, car enthusiasts had the opportunity to admire a remarkable concept car, the GR Prius Concept. However, it is still uncertain whether this concept will eventually be transformed into a production model. In regards to the endurance race, Toyota also unveiled the GR H2 Racing Concept, offering a glimpse of a future racing car fueled by hydrogen. This innovative vehicle is expected to participate in the Circuit de la Sarthe race as early as 2026.
Source and Images: Motor1