The covers have come off the Toyota GR Supra GT4 Racecar Concept which was designed and developed to offer an affordable and competitive entry-point into grassroots motorsport.
International motorsport regulations for GT4 series races have dictated the design and engineering of the GR Supra GT4 Concept, which happens to be one of the fastest growing categories across the globe.
Toyota Australia chief marketing officer Wayne Gabriel said: "The dynamic abilities of the upcoming GR Supra have been honed on the track using lessons learned from our global motorsport activities under the banner of Toyota Gazoo Racing.”
"A GT4 racing version will offer even greater performance, building on the supreme handling and agility from the production car's front-engine, rear-drive layout, its rigid lightweight body and perfectly balanced chassis," he said.
The turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine has received a performance boost via a retuned engine management system along with motorsport-grade drive shafts and limited slip differential. Power and torque outputs are yet to be confirmed. An automatic transmission sends drive to the rear axle.
The MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension set up is retained from the production vehicle but is upgraded with competition springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. High-performance Brembo brakes are also fitted to provide the necessary stopping power required when racing.
Aesthetically the GT4 concept differs minimally from the GR Supra though it’s slightly longer and lower at 4460mm and 1250mm respectively. A specially designed diffuser has been added at the front with a rear wing fitted down the back to improve airflow around the chassis, reduce drag and optimise downforce.
In order to reduce the impact on the environment, which is a bit ironic given we’re talking about a racecar, the aerodynamic additions have been made from natural fibre composites using materials such as hemp and flax as opposed to traditional carbon fibre.
Replacing the GR Supra’s 19-inch alloy wheels are 18-inch racing wheels and the standard fuel tank is replaced by a fast refuelling system with a motorsport-spec fuel tank.
Internally the GR Supra GT4 Concept is stripped out for racing and instead features a high-strength roll cage, and competition-standard fire extinguisher and OMP racing seat.
Toyota Gazoo Racing has said they will evaluate feedback from potential customers before further developing the GR Supra GT4 Concept. Should the concept go into production it will be aimed at amateur teams and aspiring professional drivers.
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