Toyota Will Move Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Forward with Dakar Rally

Toyota's racing department, GAZOO Racing, has taken an important step in its work on the development of hydrogen technologies and announced that it will compete with the hydrogen fuel cell DKR GR FC Hilux prototype in the 2027 Dakar Rally. Developed based on Toyota's DKR GR Hilux model, which proved its success in Dakar, the DKR GR FC Hilux is equipped with Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell system instead of a gasoline engine. The vehicle, which emits only water vapor while driving, will test the limits of carbon-neutral mobility technologies in challenging racing conditions. Dakar will be a laboratory for the development of hydrogen technology. Known for its high temperatures, sand dunes, rocky stages and long distances, the Dakar Rally will provide a real test environment for Toyota to develop the durability of hydrogen fuel cell technology. Within the scope of the project, the focus will be on making the fuel cell system more compact, increasing cooling performance, improving durability and optimizing energy management.

The data obtained in Dakar is aimed to contribute not only to racing vehicles, but also to the development of hydrogen technologies to be used in different areas such as passenger cars, trucks, buses, trains, maritime applications and fixed energy systems.

The testing process of the hydrogen fuel Dakar vehicle has started

Hydrogen fuel cell power. The development of the unit, software calibration and assembly of the vehicle started in Belgium. An extensive testing program will be implemented for the DKR GR FC Hilux in the coming months. After this preparation process, the vehicle will take part in the Dakar Rally, which will be held in Saudi Arabia in January 2027.

In the organization to be held between 1-15 January 2027, DKR GR FC Hilux aims to demonstrate the performance, safety and durability of new technologies in 13 special stages with a total of 1,000 kilometers.