THE #32 ORC ROOKIE GR Corolla H2 Concept, an “evolved” version of the hydrogen-powered GR Corolla, successfully completed the Super Taikyu race series at Fuji Speedway last May 24-26, 2024. The exact position and lap count are not readily available as of press time, but the race completion, with racing speeds, demonstrated the technology’s durability and potential for racing applications.
Toyota’s GR Corolla H2 Concept is at the forefront of hydrogen-powered vehicle innovation.
The car uses liquid hydrogen as a fuel, which is directly injected into the engine for combustion, generating power without emitting carbon. Significant improvements have been made to enhance the vehicle’s performance and durability, particularly in its hydrogen pump and fuel tank design.
A key advancement in the GR Corolla is the enhanced durability of its liquid hydrogen pump. This pump, which boosts the pressure of liquid hydrogen before sending it to the engine, faced durability issues in previous races. Last year, the pump had to be replaced twice during the 24-hour race. This year, a new dual-drive crank mechanism has been introduced. By applying motor torque from both ends of the crank, the boosting piston moves more evenly, significantly improving the pump’s durability. The target for this race is to complete the 24-hour duration without the need for pump replacement.
The GR Corolla also features a custom-shaped liquid hydrogen tank, transitioning from a cylindrical to an oval shape. This new design optimizes cabin space, increasing the tank’s capacity by 1.5 times compared to its predecessor. This innovation doubles the hydrogen volume and extends the cruising range from approximately 90 km to 135 km, enhancing the vehicle’s efficiency and performance on the track.
Toyota has also integrated an automated CO2 capture device in the GR Corolla. This technology captures CO2 from the atmosphere using the large-volume air intake a nd the heat generated by the engine. The new system automates the switching of CO2 absorption and separation processes, a task that was previously done manually. This automation is achieved through a rotating CO2 absorption filter, improving efficiency and sustainability.
At about the same time last year, Toyota joined the same event and completed the race too. Driver Masahiro Sasaki set the Corolla’s fastest lap in qualifying, a 2m02.567s. The fastest race lap of 2m02.760s was set by Hiroaki Ishiura.
This year, driving duties were led by Toyota chairman Akio “Morizo” Toyoda, Masahiko Kondo, director of SUPER GT and Super Formula racing, and TGR-WRT team principal Jari-Matti Latvala.
