At Toyota: the future of electrified GR sports cars and engine advances

Towards a hybrid transition in 2025?

According to information from Autocar, Toyota could replace the GR86 with a hybrid model in 2025. So far, although Toyota is a leader in hybrid technologies, its sports subsidiary GR has not yet benefited from this adaptation for its series models. Gazoo Racing's Yaris, GR86 and Supra are all thermally powered cars, but in the face of increasingly stringent environmental regulations, a change seems inevitable.

Hybridization, a solution for GR sports cars

At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Autocar journalists interviewed Hiroki Nakajima, chief technical officer at Toyota, on the question of the hybridization of GR sports cars. He called the hybrid a "good idea" and a "good solution" not only for classic cars, but also for sports cars. Speculation is rife about a GR86 replacement with a hybrid engine, possibly using the powerful three-cylinder engine from the Yaris GR.

Technical challenges to overcome

Despite Toyota's optimism about the hybridization of its GR sports cars, some technical challenges persist. Strict safety regulations could pose a problem for the GR86 in Europe, while in Japan, strict fuel consumption and emissions rules could lead to its withdrawal from the market. However, Toyota is confident in its ability to make a sporty hybrid as fun to drive as its thermal counterparts.

Electrification, a project in progress

When it comes to electrification, Toyota is waiting for the batteries to get leaner before fully launching. Hiroki Nakajima explains that thinner batteries would make it possible to design electric sports cars with a lower profile. Currently, the battery height on the bZ4X SUV is 150mm, but Toyota is aiming to reach 100mm while ensuring good charging performance and optimum reliability. For this, the brand is working in collaboration with Panasonic and is also looking into the development of solid batteries.

The other engines in question

In addition to hybridization, Toyota is also exploring other engines for its vehicles. Electric motors are growing in popularity, especially with the rise of electric vehicles and plug-in models. Traditional heat engines, such as gasoline and diesel engines, also continue to evolve to meet environmental standards and offer better efficiency.

Hybrid vehicles, including the famous Prius

Among Toyota's flagship vehicles in the field of hybridization, we find the famous Prius. Featuring a sophisticated hybrid system, the Prius was a pioneer in the field of plug-in hybrid cars. Thanks to the combination of electric and internal combustion engines, the Prius offers excellent fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions.

Electric mode and traction

One of the major advantages of plug-in hybrid cars is the electric mode. It allows emission-free driving by using only the electric motor to propel the vehicle. This electric mode is particularly suitable for urban and short-distance journeys, thus reducing fuel consumption and polluting emissions.

The challenge of charging and kWh

One of the major concerns of owners of electric and plug-in hybrid cars is range and charging time. Toyota, while preparing for electrification, is also working on solutions to improve battery charging speed and reliability to make it easier for electric vehicle drivers to travel. The range of electric cars is often expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and is an essential criterion for users.

Advances in electric motors and propulsion

With the evolution of technologies, electric motors are becoming more and more efficient. They offer instant torque, high fuel efficiency and quiet propulsion. Toyota is actively exploring these advancements to improve the performance and efficiency of its future models.

Electric cars on the highway

Electric cars and plug-in hybrids have come a long way in terms of range and highway performance. Thanks to advances in lithium-ion batteries and hybrid systems, these vehicles have become viable options for highway trips, offering a smooth and reliable ride.

The role of charging stations and the charging network

To support the growing adoption of electric and plug-in hybrid cars, a network of charging stations is essential. Toyota is actively participating in the development of this network, in collaboration with other industry players. Charging stations provide drivers with added convenience to charge their vehicles, whether at home, at work or on the go.

In sum, Toyota is keeping the mystery of its precise plans for electrified GR sports cars, but hybridization seems a plausible direction for the near future, while full electrification will be considered when battery technologies have evolved further. Toyota's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in powertrains and electric vehicles demonstrates its commitment to contributing to a more sustainable automotive future.