Toyota has unveiled the Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, a fresh Toyota GR Prius concept featuring manga-inspired design, just in time for the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans event. This concept car is showcased as part of a collaborative display involving the Japan National Tourism Organization, Mazda Motor Corporation, and Toyota Gazoo Racing.
Mazda’s participation in the joint exhibit holds significance due to its historic triumph as the first Japanese automaker to secure an overall victory at Le Mans in 1991. As the prestigious French event celebrates its centennial year, it presents an opportune moment to highlight the remarkable endurance racing prowess of Japanese manufacturers. However, Toyota’s position remains unchallenged as the sole Japanese automaker presently competing, boasting an impressive winning streak of five consecutive years.
The concept car exhibits notable dimensional differences compared to a standard Prius, with an additional length of 3.54 inches, width increased by 1.97 inches, and a height extended by 1.18 inches. It also features wider tracks both in the front and rear, expanded by 1.57 inches. To optimize the enhanced footprint, a wide-track suspension configuration has been implemented, ensuring the wheel arches are adequately filled. Additionally, the concept showcases distinctive aesthetics with its exclusive 18-inch Rays wheels and Michelin 235/50 rubber tires.
The concept car incorporates several aerodynamic enhancements to its design, including newly added side skirts, front canards, rear bumper ducts, a prominent carbon fiber rear wing, and a rear diffuser that appears to be functional or closely inspired by a functional design. Adding to the visual impact, the concept features a carbon fiber hood and multi-headlamps positioned in the lower bumper, creating a more dramatic appearance. To further distinguish itself from the standard hybrid model, the concept incorporates stylish red and black accents along with unique badges.
Regrettably, there have been no alterations made to the hybrid system beneath the hood. Despite the addition of carbon fiber elements, there is no indication of a weight reduction for the vehicle. It appears that we will need to exercise patience as we await the realization of Toyota’s envisioned 302-horsepower Prius GR Sport, as desired by the company’s executives.
The Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition exists as Toyota believes in a balanced approach to combat the carbon crisis, showcasing not only electrification but also hydrogen fuel-cell technology, hydrogen combustion, and synthetic fuels. This particular variant of the Prius serves as an opportunity to gauge interest in a high-performance hybrid, which Toyota’s brand executives deem achievable. However, a significant challenge lies in changing the perception of the Prius name from being dreary and dull. With its appealing styling, the latest generation of the Prius aims to overcome this perception. If the concept captivates attendees at the Circuit de la Sarthe and gains positive feedback on social media, the possibility of a performance-oriented GRMN variant becoming a reality increases.
