The Toyota Racing Series (TRS) is a New Zealand-based motor racing championship for single-seater cars. Established in 2005, the series has been a breeding ground for some of the world’s top drivers, including Brendon Hartley, Nick Cassidy, and Lance Stroll.
History and Format
The TRS was founded by Toyota New Zealand in conjunction with MotorSport New Zealand. The series is held over five rounds, with races typically taking place on New Zealand’s premier racing circuits, such as Hampton Downs and Pukekohe Park.
The series is open to drivers aged 16 and over, with cars powered by 2.0-liter Toyota engines. The races are typically short and intense, with a duration of around 25 minutes.
Drivers and Teams
The TRS has attracted a strong field of drivers over the years, including many who have gone on to successful careers in international motorsport.
Notable former drivers include:
| Driver | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|
| Brendon Hartley | 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, Formula 1 driver |
| Nick Cassidy | Formula E champion, Super GT champion |
| Lance Stroll | Formula 1 driver, Aston Martin Racing driver |
| Mitch Evans | Formula E driver, Jaguar Racing driver |
| Marcus Armstrong | Formula 2 driver, Hitech Grand Prix driver |
The series also features a number of top teams, including:
| Team | Notable Drivers |
|---|---|
| M2 Competition | Brendon Hartley, Nick Cassidy |
| Giles Motorsport | Mitch Evans, Marcus Armstrong |
| ETEC Motorsport | Liam Lawson, Igor Fraga |
| Kiwi Motorsport | Robert Shwartzman, Yuki Tsunoda |
Impact on New Zealand Motorsport
The TRS has played a significant role in the development of New Zealand motorsport. The series has provided a platform for young drivers to showcase their talents and has helped to foster a strong racing culture in the country.
Many TRS graduates have gone on to successful careers in international motorsport, and the series continues to be a vital part of the New Zealand racing landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the next Toyota Racing Series season?
A: The 2023 Toyota Racing Series season is scheduled to begin in January 2023.
Q: Where can I watch the Toyota Racing Series races?
A: The races are typically streamed live on the Toyota Racing Series website and YouTube channel.
Q: How can I get tickets to a Toyota Racing Series race?
A: Tickets can be purchased through the Toyota Racing Series website or at the gate on race day.
Q: Who are some of the top drivers to watch in the Toyota Racing Series?
A: Some of the top drivers to watch in the 2023 season include:
- Liam Lawson (NZ)
- Igor Fraga (BRA)
- Ollie Bearman (GBR)
- Franco Colapinto (ARG)
- Gregoire Saucy (SUI)
References:
SEMA Show Toyota Build
At the 2018 SEMA Show, Toyota debuted a range of customized vehicles showcasing its capabilities in design, engineering, and performance enhancement. These builds highlighted the diversity of Toyota’s lineup, from the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck to the Supra sports car.
The Tacoma Overlanding Concept featured rugged off-road accessories and a custom canopy for adventure enthusiasts. The Supra GRMN showcased Toyota’s performance division with its track-tuned suspension, aerodynamic body kit, and exclusive colorway. The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition paid homage to the iconic off-roader with retro-inspired styling and a luxurious interior.
Toyota also unveiled a modified Lexus LC500 Inspiration Series, emphasizing premium design and advanced technology. The 86 TRD Special Edition offered enthusiasts a sportier driving experience with upgraded suspension components and a performance exhaust system.
Toyota Rallying 2023
Toyota Gazoo Racing will once again field a three-car Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 in the 2023 World Rally Championship (WRC). Elfyn Evans, Takamoto Katsuta, and Sébastien Ogier will drive the cars.
The 2023 season will be the third for the GR Yaris Rally1, which has won four rallies since its debut in 2022. Toyota will be hoping to challenge for the manufacturers’ championship in 2023, having finished second in 2022.
Ogier is a nine-time WRC champion and will be looking to add to his tally in 2023. Evans is a two-time WRC runner-up and will be hoping to challenge for the title in 2023. Katsuta is a rising star in the WRC and will be looking to improve on his fifth-place finish in the 2022 championship.
The 2023 WRC season will begin with the Rallye Monte-Carlo on January 19-22.
Toyota Tacoma SEMA Build
Toyota showcased a customized Tacoma at the SEMA show, showcasing the vehicle’s versatility and capability. The Tacoma TRD Pro was modified with a range of enhancements, including a TRD lift kit, 18-inch wheels, and all-terrain tires for off-road performance. The exterior was adorned with a custom front bumper, grille, and hood scoop, giving it a rugged and aggressive look. The interior received upgrades such as heated leather seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation unit. The Tacoma SEMA build demonstrated the potential for customization and personalization within the Tacoma lineup, catering to enthusiasts seeking adventure and off-road exploration.
Toyota GR Supra Rallying
The Toyota GR Supra made its rally debut in the 2023 Rallye Monte-Carlo, marking a significant milestone in the sports car’s history. Equipped with a modified 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 530 horsepower, the GR Supra Rally1 emerged as a formidable competitor among the hybrid rally cars.
Driven by Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston, the GR Supra Rally1 encountered various challenges on the icy and demanding roads of the Monte-Carlo stages. Despite setbacks, the team successfully completed the rally and gained valuable experience.
The GR Supra’s rally campaign represents Toyota’s commitment to pushing the limits of its performance vehicles and showcasing their capabilities in extreme motorsport environments.
Toyota Hilux Rally Racing
Toyota’s Hilux has proven its capabilities in the demanding world of rally racing.
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Legendary Endurance: The Hilux has competed and won in various endurance rallies, including the Dakar Rally, one of the toughest races on the planet. Its robust design and reliability have made it a formidable contender.
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Technological Advancements: Toyota continuously refines the Hilux with cutting-edge technology. The latest models incorporate high-performance engines, advanced suspensions, and sophisticated electronics, enhancing both speed and handling.
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Driver Expertise: The Hilux is piloted by experienced and skilled rally drivers. Their exceptional control and strategy allow them to push the vehicle to its limits while navigating rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions.
Toyota 4Runner SEMA Build
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner SEMA creation, built on the rugged TRD Pro, showcases the vehicle’s versatility and off-road capabilities. This build features:
- Volcano Khaki Paint: A striking exterior color that accentuates the 4Runner’s ruggedness.
- BAMF Sliders: Heavy-duty side steps provide protection and enhance entry/exit.
- KB Voodoo Roof Rack: Expanded storage capacity for adventures and overlanding trips.
- Westcott Designs Suspension: Lifted suspension with upgraded components for improved handling and ground clearance.
- Method Wheels and BFGoodrich Tires: Aggressive wheels and tires enhance grip and durability in challenging terrain.
- Baja Design Lighting: High-powered LED lighting illuminates the path in low-light conditions.
- Backbone Overland Rooftop Tent: A spacious and comfortable sleeping solution for outdoor camping.
- ARB Safari Snorkel: Increases air intake height for improved performance in water crossings.
Toyota Tacoma Off-Road SEMA Build
Toyota unveiled a customized off-road version of the Tacoma at the 2023 SEMA show. The build features rugged upgrades, including:
- A lifted suspension with adjustable coilovers
- All-terrain tires on custom wheels
- A front winch and skid plate
- A roof rack with off-road lights
- A custom-fabricated rear bumper with integrated recovery points
The Tacoma SEMA build showcases Toyota’s commitment to creating adventure-ready vehicles. It exemplifies the versatility and capability of the Tacoma for off-road enthusiasts seeking adventure in challenging terrains.
Toyota Tundra SEMA Show
At the 2022 SEMA Show, Toyota debuted a range of customized Tundra pickup trucks, showcasing the versatility and performance capabilities of the popular vehicle.
Notable highlights included:
- The TRD Pro Desert Chase Tundra: A Baja 1000-inspired truck with a custom suspension, off-road tires, and a reinforced bed.
- The TRD Sport SX Package Tundra: A street-legal race truck with a supercharged engine, carbon fiber body parts, and a custom interior.
- The Bilstein Tundra: A collaboration with off-road suspension specialist Bilstein, featuring upgraded suspension, custom wheels, and a rugged exterior.
- The Tundra Solar and Storage Concept: A unique truck designed for overlanding enthusiasts, equipped with solar panels, a portable battery pack, and a custom cab.
Toyota Land Cruiser SEMA Build
Toyota showcased a Land Cruiser SEMA build at the 2021 SEMA Show. The build featured a rugged exterior with a BDS lift kit, 35-inch tires, and custom bumpers. It also boasted a powerful performance package with a supercharger and exhaust system. The interior was customized with leather seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation unit. The Land Cruiser SEMA build showcased Toyota’s commitment to off-road performance and personalized customization.
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