Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s chairman and former president and CEO, is a true enthusiast with a hands-on approach to performance vehicles. His “Morizo” pseudonym is well-known in racing circles, and he continues to be actively involved in the world of motorsports.
A recent example of his passion for speed was a thrilling drive in a GR Yaris at the Shimoyama course in Japan. Unfortunately, the rally version of the hot hatch met its limits, overturning after hitting a mound.
Thankfully, Toyoda and his co-pilot, nine-time Japan rally champion Norihiko Katsuta, emerged without injuries. The crashed GR Yaris was later showcased at the inauguration of Toyota’s state-of-the-art R&D facility, the Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama.
This display served as a testament to the company’s commitment to rigorous testing, pushing vehicles to their limits to ensure exceptional performance and safety.
Toyoda’s dedication to performance vehicles drives the development of GR cars, including special models like the one-off GRMN Century. Despite his appreciation for other marques, like his personal Suzuki Jimny, he remains steadfast in his belief that internal combustion engines have a future.
He predicts that EVs will not exceed a 30-percent market share, and Toyota’s continued investment in ICE technology reflects this stance.
The 1.6-liter turbo engine from the GR Yaris and GR Corolla will soon power the Lexus LBX small crossover, delivering around 300 horsepower. Toyoda’s passion and expertise continue to shape Toyota’s performance division, ensuring exciting times ahead for enthusiasts.