The Japanese automaker, Toyota, unveiled the all-new GR LH2 Racing Concept at the Le Mans 24 Hours race, alongside the Peugeot E-208 GTi. This next-generation model builds upon Toyota’s earlier hydrogen-powered hypercar concept, the GR H2, and features an all-new liquid hydrogen-hybrid powertrain.
Just for a recap, Toyota began its first venture into hydrogen-powered racing vehicles in 2021 when Rookie Racing entered the Japanese Super Taikyu Series with a Corolla powered by gaseous hydrogen. Later in 2023, it transitioned to using liquid hydrogen.
The technology was also used in rallying back in 2022, when the GR Yaris H2 completed demonstration runs at the Ypres Rally, a round of the FIA World Rally Championship. In 2023, a hydrogen-powered Corolla showcased its capabilities with a demonstration lap at Circuit de la Sarthe, while the GR H2 Racing Concept was unveiled as a glimpse into a potential future hydrogen category at Le Mans.
In terms of design, the GR LH2 appears to draw clear inspiration from both the GR H2 concept and the Toyota GR010 Hybrid Le Mans Hypercar (LMH). Measuring 5,100 mm in length and 2,050 mm in width, it’s slightly larger than the GR010 LMH. Key updates include a sharper, more angular front fascia, slimmer LED headlights, revised side intakes, and a larger rear wing paired with a newly integrated fin for enhanced aerodynamic performance.
However, there was not much information given regarding the interior of the car. Additionally, the automaker is also being tight-lipped on the specifications of the powertrain, other than confirming it is a hydrogen-hybrid as mentioned above.
Nevertheless, there are reports indicating that there could be a possibility the powertrain was adapted from the GR010 LMH. For reference, the LMH has a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 680 PS and an electric motor with 272 PS mounted at the front axle of the car.
The unveiling of the GR LH2 marked the 40th anniversary of the automaker’s participation in the legendary endurance race. Furthermore, according to Carz, Toyota is going after Ferrari’s Le Mans winning streak this year.
