Toyota Gazoo Racing completes build-up of Dakar hydrogen-powered Hilux
Gazoo Racing has completed the build-up of the new DKR GR FC Hilux hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicle that it will enter in the 2027 Dakar Rally, ahead of its dynamic test program. Gazoo Racing will enter the Dakar Future Mission 1000 category, which is dedicated to experimental vehicles and new technologies.
The project is part of Toyota’s Multipath approach to exploring alternative powertrain technologies, with the aim of developing insights that could contribute to reducing tailpipe CO₂ emissions in motorsport and future road cars. The FCEV, which features two fuel cell stacks and high-pressure hydrogen tanks, produces no tailpipe CO₂ while driving.
Testing program
The short and intense development program involved close cooperation between several parties to create the new DKR GR FC Hilux. Toyota’s European R&D center near Brussels, Belgium, cooperated with Overdrive Racing – which operates the Toyota Gazoo Racing W2RC team and developed the DKR GR Hilux – as well as Toyota Racing in Cologne and the Toyota Motor Corporation. Construction of the DKR GR FC Hilux is now complete and it is undergoing dynamic testing prior to its competitive debut.
Technical specification
Based on the same platform as the DKR GR Hilux, the DKR GR FC Hilux uses the same tubular frame, safety cell, suspension and brakes. It is equipped with a high-output unit that combines two fuel cell stacks into a single system and uses the same high-pressure hydrogen tanks as Mirai.
A dedicated e-axle, an IAV Dragoon ECU and a new electronics system have been specifically selected, while innovative solutions such as natural fiber panels – replacing some carbon fiber parts – and a new high-voltage cooling system will also be introduced. The vehicle will run on Open Country tires from Toyo Tire.
By combining production parts and advanced technology, Gazoo Racing will test components in the harsh environment of the Dakar Future Mission 1000 category. The experience gained will enable knowledge transfer which will benefit the development of future road cars and fuel cell applications.
Driver announcement
Dania Akeel will drive the DKR GR FC Hilux in testing and in its first competition, the Dakar Rally. Since starting her rally-raid career in 2021, Akeel has become an experienced and successful competitor. “This is a great opportunity for me to learn how new technologies are brought to life in the automotive world,” Akeel said.
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