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The Citizen
15 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
National Extreme Festival gives the Zwartkops faithful their wish
First winter months round of this year's series promised action and delivered the heat. Michael van Rooyen (Gazoo Racing Toyota Corolla) extended his South African Touring Car championship at Zwartkops on Saturday. Photograph: Dave Ledbitter. Great weather and excellent on-track action greeted spectators at the Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria on Saturday, when the venue hosted round four of the National Extreme Festival Presented By Coca-Cola. Touring Cars Top billing belonged to the South African Touring Car championship brigade, with 22 cars facing the starter. Race one went to Keegan Campos (Campos Transport BMW 128ti), chased to the flag by Michael van Rooyen (Gazoo Racing Toyota Corolla), Julian van der Watt (Chemical Logistics Volkswagen Golf GTI) and Nathi Msimanga (Gazoo Racing Toyota Corolla). Race two was red-flagged almost immediately when the Chemical Logistics BMW 128it of Andrew Schofield and the Campos BMW 128it made brutal contact at the turn two hairpin. ALSO READ: National Extreme Festival gives it its all at Aldo Scribante Both Campos and Schofield got their vehicles out of the sand trap and, with a brand new race declared, could rejoin the grid. The new race then ended behind the safety car under double waved yellow flags after Siyabonga Mankonkwana went off in the ultra-fast turn one and parked his Investchem Toyota Corolla deep in the sand trap. After all of which van Rooyen won, followed by Saood Variawa (Gazoo Racing Toyota Corolla), van der Watt and Msimanga. SupaCup The first SupaCup heat was won by Jonathan Mogotsi (Volkswagen Genuine Parts SupaPolo), leading home Jason Loosemore (Astron Energy Volkswagen SupaPolo), Tate Bishop (ANGRi Volkswagen SupaPolo) and Charl Visser (Charl Engineering Volkswagen SupaPolo). Jonathan Mogotsi (Volkswagen Genuine Parts SupaPolo) won both of Saturday's SupaCup races. Photograph: Dave Ledbitter. Mogotsi won the next race as well, chased over the line by Bishop, Loosemore and Visser. Polo Cup The Astron Energy Polo Cup category tackled three race heats on the day, making Dunlop tyre conservation a vital part of drivers' strategy. Rory Atkinson (Industry Petroleum) won race one from Mohammed Karodia (Fast 5), Hannes Scheepers (Dainfern Dental) and Dhivyen Naido (Production X). Rory Atkinson (Industry Petroleum) won all three of the Astron Energy Polo Cup races. Photograph: Dave Ledbitter. Atkinson won race two as well, this time ahead of Karodia, Judd Bertholdt (Rookie Cup) and Roshaan Goodman (Upward Spiral). Race three was red-flagged on the opening lap when four cars spun off in the hairpin and got stuck. Everybody managed to rejoin though, and the race went to Atkinson, holding off Karodia, Tyler Robinson (AF Fans) and Goodman. Supercars Jonathan du Toit (Trans Africa Racing Lamborghini Huracan) won the first Dunlop Extreme Supercar race ahead of Charl Arangies (Stradale Porsche 911 GT3 R), Gianni Giannoccaro (G&H Transport Nissan GT-R) and Kris Budnik (Bucketlist Components Dodge Viper). In the process, du Toit set the day's quickest overall lap time of 59.67 seconds. Jonathan du Toit (Trans Africa Racing Lamborghini Huracan) won all three Dunlop Extreme Supercar races. Photograph: Dave Ledbitter. Arangies parked the Porsche on the warm-up lap of race two, leaving du Toit to win again, followed by Giannoccaro, Paul Hill (Kalex Audi R8 GT3) and Budnik. Du Toit made it a full house by winning race three as well, ahead of a returning Arangies, Giannocarro and Ricky Giannocarro (G&H Transport Mercedes-AMG GT3). Two-wheels Multiple Superbike champion Clinton Seller (King Price) led the opening SunBet Kawasaki ZX10 Masters Cup from lights to flag, finishing ahead of Damion Purificati (Amulgum Welding), Jayson Lamb (Tyremart East London) and Hein McMahon (K9 Law). Seller won race two easily as well, followed by Purificati, Greame van Breda (Stefanutti Stocks) and McMahon. MSA4 The all-new Investchem MSA4 single-seater category made its long-awaited debut, with 14 of the one-litre turbocharged Volkswagen-powered cars on the grid. Former Formula Ford racer KC Ensor-Smith (African Heating) took the race one victory, chased to the flag by Shrien Naidoo (Production X), Renzo Ribiero (Metal Used Spares) and Nicolas van Weely (Investchem). Former Formula Ford racer KC Ensor-Smith (African Heating) took two of the three Investchem MSA4 single-seater races. Photograph: Dave Ledbitter. Ensor-Smith won race two as well, followed by Ribiero, Adriaan Nel (SignFactory) and Liam Polome (Red Dot). Race three went to Mikeil Bezuidenhout (Corsa Dei Gemelli), ahead of Karabo Malemela (KMFT Morita), Polome and Ensor-Smith. Volkswagen Rookie Cup The first Volkswagen Rookie Cup, in which all drivers uses standard Polo Vivo GTs, went to Josh Moore (BPW Puma), ahead of Christopher Tait (Sportex), Mauro da Luz (Retail) and Uzair Khan (TSS). Tait won race two ahead of Moore, Da Luz and Khan. Toyota GR Cup The Toyota Gazoo Cup Racing brigade again produced top spectacle, with close racing in all three classes. GR driving instructor Devon Scott (GR Yaris) took the opening dealership Cup race from Mario da Sousa (GR Corolla), Werner Venter (GR Corolla) and Paul de Vos (GR Corolla). Scott, da Sousa and Venter filled the Dealership Cup race two podium as well, followed by. Nadil Abdool (SuperSport) took both media event victories, leading home Phuti Mpayane (TimesLive) on both occasions, with Kyle Kock (CAR Magazine) placing third in race one and The Citizen's Charl Bosch in race two. The first GR86 race went to Jason Coetzee, ahead of Kent Swartz, Khya Nggenya and Justin Rogers. Coetzee won race two as well, chased by Swartz, Nggenya and Brandon van der Walt. Next up The next round of the National Extreme Festival will be at the East London Grand Prix on 19 July. ALSO READ: Kyalami shows its teeth to National and Regional Extreme Festivals
Auto Blog
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Toyota Aims to Meet Stateside GR Corolla Demand with UK Production Line
Toyota's GR Corolla is one hot ride On paper, it is easy to understand the hype for the Toyota GR Corolla. For $39,995, car enthusiasts can pretty much get the closest thing to a WRC-winning rally car that money can buy and that your DMV will let you register for road use. While it shares its body with a practical five-door hatchback, Toyota's Gazoo Racing division stuffed lots of high-performance toys for unlimited smiles per gallon, including a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine producing 300 rampageous horsepower under the hood, an all-wheel-drive system, track-ready suspension, and a stiffened chassis. 2025 Toyota GR Corolla — Source: Toyota Toyota isn't faffing about with American demand for its pocket rocket With all this in tow, it is easy to see how Toyota's fast, little hatchback could be a sleeper hit that is taking the automaker by surprise. According to a new report by Reuters, insiders say that demand for the all-wheel-drive pocket rocket in the U.S. is so high that it is making a major production shift to satisfy their cravings. According to two sources close to Toyota, the Japanese automaker is moving some GR production from Japan to the UK in order to reduce the delivery wait times for export vehicles for the North American market. Currently, the GR Corolla is built on a dedicated assembly line shared with the GR Yaris at Toyota's Motomachi plant in Toyota City, Japan, which is reportedly insufficient to satisfy enthusiast demand in the U.S. and Canada. To accommodate this, Toyota will spend nearly $56 million to dedicate one production line at its plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire, in the UK. When it comes online in 2026, this line will be capable of producing 10,000 cars per year for export to the North American market. Opened in 1992, Burnaston uses some of Toyota's advanced production technology to pump out cars as fast as one per 60 seconds. Already, the English factory produces the Toyota Corolla hatchback, the vehicle on which the GR Corolla is based. The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla on the streets of SoHo in New York City. — Source: James Ochoa However, one Toyota source who spoke to Reuters said that the automaker will temporarily dispatch engineers to the English factory to share its expertise and knowledge with the workers on building such a car. The sources who spoke with Reuters emphasized that GR models like the GR Corolla and GR Yaris require more time and effort to produce than their non-GR counterparts because of the many procedures that machines cannot do. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Moving production of high-margin cars to the UK can be a tariff power move. Although Toyota produces and sells a smaller chunk of GR Corollas compared to its more mainstream models, Toyota insiders note that their higher price tags compared to 'regular' Corollas command higher margins for the company, which could be a good deal, given the tariff situation currently at hand. Earlier this month, the Trump administration brokered a trade deal with Kier Starmer and the British government to reduce tariffs on UK vehicle imports from 27.5% to 10%. While automakers seem to get a break, the Trump administration restricts this 'special rate' for the first 100,000 cars automakers bring on American shores. Toyota insiders told Reuters that the move was not made because of President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported cars. 2025 Toyota GR Corolla — Source: James Ochoa Final thoughts I am not surprised that Toyota would be considering this move, as there seems to be something about the UK and hatchbacks. Previously, the last generation of Honda Civic Type R was made in Swindon, England, alongside production of the 'standard' Civic Hatchback destined for American shores. Nonetheless, the GR Corolla is an exhilarating car, even when equipped with an automatic transmission. However, I do hope that when they make this shift, Toyota GR fans will be vigilant for any noticeable differences in build quality compared to units from the Motomachi plant. Those GR engineers have a lot on their plates. About the Author James Ochoa View Profile
Asahi Shimbun
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Asahi Shimbun
Toyota aims to share ‘fun of driving' through new racing kart
A prototype of Toyota Motor Corp.'s GR go-kart on May 30 in Oyama, Shizuoka Prefecture. The company is holding test-drive events at racetracks to gather feedback and incorporate it into the design. (Kaname Ohira) Toyota Motor Corp. is preparing to launch production and sales of compact go-karts designed for both children and adults in a strategic initiative aimed at cultivating a passion for cars from an early age and fostering interest in the automotive industry. The company hopes offering a relatively affordable entry point to motorsports will lead to more car enthusiasts and introduce younger generations to "the fun of driving." It unveiled a prototype of the lightweight, open-wheel kart currently being developed by Gazoo Racing (GR), Toyota's motorsports division, on May 30. The model can be driven recreationally or competitively on dedicated karting tracks with the claim of easy handling that allows drivers to focus on having fun. Although the launch date and final price has yet to be determined, the prototype can also run on carbon-neutral fuel derived from plant sources. Toyota is also considering a future version powered by a hydrogen combustion engine that swaps gasoline or diesel for the greener fuel as part of the company's push toward sustainable mobility. LOAD UP THE MINIVAN Portability and accessibility for families was also prioritized during the design phase. The kart is slightly smaller than standard models at 1.8 meters long and 1.15 meters wide—compact enough to fit in the cargo space of Toyota's family minivans such as the Noah or Voxy. It is uncommon for major automakers, both domestically and globally, to dip into the racing kart market. In Japan's case, Yamaha Motor Co. previously manufactured and sold karts but ceased chassis production in the early 2000s. Today, no domestically produced karts are available. European-made models now dominate the Japanese market and typically sell for 1.5 million yen ($10,503). Annual upkeep—including replacement parts and tires—can exceed 1 million yen, placing a significant financial burden on enthusiasts. To keep its new kart financially viable for a wider audience, Toyota plans to use cost-effective pipe materials for the chassis and use existing welding robots from its production lines. By minimizing manufacturing expenses, a Toyota official involved in the project said the company aims to sell the kart for approximately a fourth of what current European models cost. It is also treating the kart as an opportunity to nurture future talent in the automotive field. Rather than using the initiative to solely promote motorsports, Toyota intends to provide child-friendly tools so families can perform basic maintenance on karts together—turning the kart into a hands-on educational experience that fosters curiosity and mechanical understanding. In preparation for the launch, Toyota is also collaborating with kart track operators to raise safety standards and ensure a safe and secure environment for drivers.
Auto Blog
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Toyota's New GR Hypercar Concept Is a Hydrogen-Fueled Spectacle
Toyota flexes its hypercar creativity with the GR LH2 Toyota has unveiled its GR LH2 Racing Concept featuring a hydrogen engine paired with a hybrid system at the Circuit de la Sarthe days ahead of the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The GR LH2 is designed to advance the development of hydrogen tech in motorsports and mark the 40th anniversary of the automaker's first Le Mans run. According to Toyota, the GR LH2 is based on its GR010 Hybrid Hypercar used in the World Endurance Championship, which includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans as its flagship event. 0:09 / 0:09 Audi A5 replaces A4: So, what's changed? Watch More While Toyota didn't provide many details on the concept's powertrain or hydrogen system, they were built at Japan's Higashi-Fuji Technical Centre. The chassis, the same as in the GR010, was manufactured at Toyota's Gazoo Racing facility in Cologne, Germany. Toyota's GR LH2 is the GR H2 Concept's successor, and distinguishes itself from its predecessor with new bodywork, such as remodeled side intakes, a taller rear wing, and a larger fin. The LH2 also differs from the GR H2 with its striking white-and-blue livery and smaller front LED lights, but its greenhouse resembles the previous concept. Official measurements for the LH2 are 5100mm (200.7 inches) in length and 2050mm (80.7 inches) in width. Toyota GR LH2 Racing Concept — Source: Toyota GR The minds behind Toyota's GR LH2 Racing Concept 'Toyota has been the pioneer for hydrogen combustion engine technology since 2021 in Super Taikyu racing in Japan,' said Kazuki Nakajima, former F1 driver and Team Director and Vice Chairman of Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe. Toyota's sister team, Rookie Racing, participated in the Japanese Super Taikyu series in 2021 with a gaseous hydrogen-engine Corolla, before switching to a liquid hydrogen-powered car in 2023. In 2022, Toyota displayed the potential of hydrogen engines in rally racing with a GR Yaris H2 at the Ypres Rally in the FIA World Rally Championship. A year later, the hydrogen-engine Corolla completed a demonstration lap at Circuit de la Sarthe, and the GR H2 Racing Concept was showcased to preview a potential hydrogen category at Le Mans. Toyota GR LH2 Racing Concept — Source: Toyota GR The GR H2 was a static concept, but the GR LH2 is a running test car. Nakajima noted that Toyota has been pushing to introduce hydrogen as energy while maintaining a racing engine's noise, sensation, and vibration. Toyota Gazoo Racing endurance driver and team principal Kamui Kobayashi said Toyota's performance division made the GR LH2 to highlight future carbon-neutral possibilities while enhancing its motorsport presence. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Final thoughts Toyota's decision to limit information released on the new GR LH2 could signal noteworthy progress on its hydrogen initiatives. Since 2021, Toyota has continually built on its hydrogen innovation in motorsport, and the GR LH2's ability to function as a running test car is another significant step. Kamui Kobayashi, Nyck Devries, and Mike Conway will compete for Toyota Gazoo Racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans' Hypercar event from June 14 to 15. About the Author Cody Carlson View Profile
Miami Herald
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Toyota's New GR Hypercar Concept Is a Hydrogen-Fueled Spectacle
Toyota has unveiled its GR LH2 Racing Concept featuring a hydrogen engine paired with a hybrid system at the Circuit de la Sarthe days ahead of the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The GR LH2 is designed to advance the development of hydrogen tech in motorsports and mark the 40th anniversary of the automaker's first Le Mans run. According to Toyota, the GR LH2 is based on its GR010 Hybrid Hypercar used in the World Endurance Championship, which includes the 24 Hours of Le Mans as its flagship event. While Toyota didn't provide many details on the concept's powertrain or hydrogen system, they were built at Japan's Higashi-Fuji Technical Centre. The chassis, the same as in the GR010, was manufactured at Toyota's Gazoo Racing facility in Cologne, Germany. Toyota's GR LH2 is the GR H2 Concept's successor, and distinguishes itself from its predecessor with new bodywork, such as remodeled side intakes, a taller rear wing, and a larger fin. The LH2 also differs from the GR H2 with its striking white-and-blue livery and smaller front LED lights, but its greenhouse resembles the previous concept. Official measurements for the LH2 are 5100mm (200.7 inches) in length and 2050mm (80.7 inches) in width. "Toyota has been the pioneer for hydrogen combustion engine technology since 2021 in Super Taikyu racing in Japan," said Kazuki Nakajima, former F1 driver and Team Director and Vice Chairman of Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe. Toyota's sister team, Rookie Racing, participated in the Japanese Super Taikyu series in 2021 with a gaseous hydrogen-engine Corolla, before switching to a liquid hydrogen-powered car in 2023. In 2022, Toyota displayed the potential of hydrogen engines in rally racing with a GR Yaris H2 at the Ypres Rally in the FIA World Rally Championship. A year later, the hydrogen-engine Corolla completed a demonstration lap at Circuit de la Sarthe, and the GR H2 Racing Concept was showcased to preview a potential hydrogen category at Le Mans. The GR H2 was a static concept, but the GR LH2 is a running test car. Nakajima noted that Toyota has been pushing to introduce hydrogen as energy while maintaining a racing engine's noise, sensation, and vibration. Toyota Gazoo Racing endurance driver and team principal Kamui Kobayashi said Toyota's performance division made the GR LH2 to highlight future carbon-neutral possibilities while enhancing its motorsport presence. Toyota's decision to limit information released on the new GR LH2 could signal noteworthy progress on its hydrogen initiatives. Since 2021, Toyota has continually built on its hydrogen innovation in motorsport, and the GR LH2's ability to function as a running test car is another significant step. Kamui Kobayashi, Nyck Devries, and Mike Conway will compete for Toyota Gazoo Racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans' Hypercar event from June 14 to 15. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
