Toyota GR LH2 Concept Reveals Liquid Hydrogen Racing Future
Toyota Gazoo Racing has unveiled the GR LH2 Racing Concept, a liquid hydrogen-fueled prototype now on display at the Circuit de la Sarthe during the 93rd 24 Hours of Le Mans. The car showcases how liquid hydrogen racing technology can thrive under endurance conditions, drawing crowds to the H2 Village, hosted by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest. By using motorsport as its proving ground, Toyota crafts ever-better cars and propels the journey toward a carbon-neutral society, advancing hydrogen production, distribution, and use alongside industry partners.
The marque’s hydrogen story began in 2021 when Rookie Racing entered a Corolla powered by gaseous hydrogen in Japan’s Super Taikyu series. A switch to liquid hydrogen in 2023 boosted energy density and streamlined pit stops, sharpening the technology’s competitive edge. The GR Yaris H2 then ran demonstration stages on the 2022 Ypres Rally, highlighting hydrogen’s rally potential. Meanwhile, a hydrogen-engine Corolla lapped Le Mans, and the GR H2 Racing Concept hinted at a future hydrogen class for the race.
Development now climbs to a new level with the GR LH2 Racing Concept, derived from the GR010 HYBRID Hypercar that contests the FIA World Endurance Championship. Upcoming track tests will refine the performance of liquid hydrogen engines, expand refuelling infrastructure, and strengthen alliances that accelerate hydrogen adoption within and beyond motorsport.
The concept’s debut also celebrates forty years since Toyota’s first appearance at Le Mans. To mark the milestone, the #7 GR010 HYBRID of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and Nyck de Vries carries a red-and-white livery inspired by the 1998 TS020, while the #8 car of Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley and Ryo Hirakawa sports a matt-black scheme centred on the GR logo. Both designs embody the team’s “Hate to lose” spirit and its commitment to prototype innovation, underscoring how hydrogen technology and competitive grit together shape the future of sustainable racing.
