Second 24-hour Endurance Race of the Liquid Hydrogen-Fueled Corolla: Trial by Fire and Progression
Toyota's Liquid Hydrogen-Powered GR Corolla Shows Promise in 24-Hour Endurance Race
In a groundbreaking move, Toyota's GR Corolla, powered by liquid hydrogen, competed in the 24-hour endurance race on May 26, 2024. This marked the first time a liquid hydrogen-powered vehicle was used by Toyota in such a competition worldwide.
The 2024 GR Corolla underwent significant improvements aimed at enhancing performance and sustainability. Key focus areas included hydrogen pump durability, the introduction of an elliptical hydrogen tank, and a CO2 capture device.
To improve hydrogen pump durability, Toyota integrated a system powered in part by electricity generated from boil-off gas (vaporized hydrogen naturally lost due to tank heat). This electricity powers components such as the liquid hydrogen pump motor, improving its durability and energy efficiency by recycling energy that would otherwise be wasted.
The vehicle uses an advanced elliptical-shaped liquid hydrogen tank designed for efficient space utilization and safety. This design likely supports stable storage of liquid hydrogen by minimizing boil-off and improving packaging within the car.
Toyota also developed a CO2 capture or emission control system where any unused boil-off gas is converted through a catalyst into water vapor before safe release, thereby minimizing environmental impact. This combines with a small onboard fuel cell to convert excess boil-off hydrogen into electricity, enhancing energy recycling and reducing emissions.
Despite these advancements, the GR Corolla did not reach last year's record of 358 laps or nearly 1,634 kilometers in the 2023 race due to unspecified issues. However, the team, led by drivers Morizo and Masahiko Kondo, managed to complete the race.
The development process for the 2023 race was a challenging one, with continuous trials and errors. Chairman Akio Toyoda, also known as Morizo, encouraged his team with the quote, "Boldly go where no man has gone before," which is from Captain Kirk in Star Trek.
In its second year, the liquid hydrogen-powered Corolla completed 332 laps, covering nearly 1,515 kilometers. One of the goals for the GR Corolla, to run 30 laps on a single hydrogen refill, was met.
The 2023 report on the GR Corolla's performance in the 24-hour endurance race is available for viewing. The GR Corolla's development team persisted in their efforts despite the challenges and struggles they faced during the preparation for the 2023 race.
These improvements reflect Toyota's continuous refinement of its liquid hydrogen-powered Corolla for endurance racing. This advances Toyota’s vision of hydrogen internal combustion for carbon-neutral mobility within motorsports. The 2024 race will undoubtedly see more advancements as Toyota continues to push the boundaries of sustainable motorsports.
The GR Corolla's advancements in hydrogen technology, including the improvement of hydrogen pump durability, the introduction of an elliptical hydrogen tank, and a CO2 capture device, indicate Toyota's deep involvement in both the automotive and technology industries, striving for a carbon-neutral future in motorsports. In the finance sector, these innovations represent substantial investments in research and development for sustainable transportation.
