Toyota’s Hydrogen-Powered Rally Car Debuts in Finland

GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept showcases future of carbon-neutral motorsport

Pushing towards carbon neutrality and better motorsports vehicles, Toyota is showcasing its Rally2 H2 Concept at Rally Finland, demonstrating hydrogen’s potential in racing’s future.

Hydrogen Power on Display

Since 2021, Toyota has been testing a hydrogen-engine Corolla in Japan’s Super Taikyu series. Among the drivers providing feedback is Jari-Matti Latvala, Team Principal of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team.

In 2022, the GR Yaris H2 made its European rally debut in Belgium, driven by Akio Toyoda and Juha Kankkunen. This paved the way for further innovation.

Rally2 H2 Concept Unveiled

The Rally2 H2 Concept, developed at TGR-WRT headquarters in Jyväskylä, Finland, uses a compressed hydrogen internal combustion engine. It promises near-zero emissions while maintaining the exciting sounds and sensations appreciated by rally enthusiasts.

The vehicle is based on the GR Yaris Rally2 chassis and has undergone testing on local gravel roads similar to those used in Rally Finland. For its debut, the car will run on the mixed-surface Harju stage in Jyväskylä.

Kankkunen Behind the Wheel

Four-time world champion Juha Kankkunen, now Deputy Team Principal of TGR-WRT, will drive the GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept during its public demonstration.

The car will be showcased alongside hydrogen vehicles like the Toyota Mirai and Tundra in the service park, part of a wider exhibition of hydrogen tech in Jyväskylä. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, hydrogen vehicles offer a refueling time of less than 5 minutes and a range of over 300 miles, highlighting their potential as a viable alternative to gasoline cars U.S. DOE 2023.

Embracing the Future

Toyota’s continued development and demonstration of hydrogen-powered vehicles underscores its commitment to exploring alternative fuel technologies for a sustainable future in motorsports.