The two Toyota GR010 Hybrids fielded by Toyota Gazoo Racing at the 1000 Miles of Sebring on 18 March will differ slightly to the 2021 models. Firstly, the 2022-spec GR010 Hybrids will have different wheel and tyre sizes to last year. The 12.5 x 18-inch magnesium alloy front wheels will be shod with Michelin 29/71-18 tyres whereas the 14 x 18-inch rear wheels will have 34/71-18 tyres.
These changes have implied a few minor aerodynamic revisions to maintain airflow and remain within the performance window required by the regulations. The enlarged rear wing endplates are the most noticeable changes.

Although the GR010 Hybrid remains largely unchanged beneath its bodywork, the engine settings have been adjusted to adapt to the new 100% renewable fuel introduced for this season’s FIA World Endurance Championship. Produced from wine-making residues and agricultural materials, this fuel cuts CO2 emissions by at least 65% and boosts ongoing efforts to improve sustainability in motorsport.

“The whole team is excited to be racing again and we feel in good shape following a very efficient pre-season testing programme,” says Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Technical Director Pascal Vasselon. “Development in the Hypercar class is tightly controlled by homologation rules. Consequently, there are relatively few changes for our GR010 Hybrid in 2022. Hypercar manufacturers can choose between 31-31 or 29-34 tyres and this year we have moved to the 29-34 option, triggering some bodywork changes for cooling and to maintain aerodynamic performance within the homologation window. We expect this change to address challenges we faced last season with management of the rear tyres. Additionally, the introduction of the new renewable fuel meant the engine settings had to be adjusted to account for slightly different characteristics. This new fuel is an important step on the journey towards carbon neutrality for Toyota Gazoo Racing and WEC, so we are very supportive of such innovation. We have validated all changes during our winter tests and we will take the final preparation steps this weekend with the Prologue in Sebring before racing begins. We are impatient to get started.”

During the FIA WEC Prologue at Sebring next weekend, Toyota Gazoo Racing and the other teams will have four free practice sessions in which to adapt their machines to the specifics of the Florida racetrack ahead of the opening round of the season.