19-05-2025
Toyota Gazoo Racing launches new motorsport hub in SA
In collaboration with Shameer Variawa Racing (SVR), Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) has opened the doors to its brand-new motorsport operations centre in Kyalami, Gauteng.
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The expansive 12 500m² facility, a testament to high-performance engineering and development, hints at even greater potential for the Dakar Rally-conquering GR Hilux EVO.
The purpose-built Toyota Gazoo Racing Motorsport Hub centralises Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa's entire rally-raid operation under one roof. This multi-level complex houses the team's growing fleet of race vehicles alongside previously disparate technical departments. Crucially, the new hub boasts significant upgrades, including a dedicated engine room, a sophisticated damper laboratory and an in-house dynamometer. These additions will allow for more precise and rapid development of the formidable GR Hilux EVO's powertrain.
Furthermore, TGRSA has heavily invested in its fabrication and machining capabilities. The upgraded divisions are now equipped with precision component production tools, enabling the team to bring previously outsourced services in-house. This strategic move is expected to drastically reduce turnaround times for crucial parts and allow for even finer control over the performance, durability and, crucially, the reliability of their Dakar challenger.
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The sheer scale of the new facility is impressive. With the capacity to prepare up to 20 racecars simultaneously – a substantial increase from the previous limit of six – TGRSA is clearly gearing up for an expanded operational scope, potentially supporting more global rally-raid efforts in the future. A state-of-the-art parts store, complete with custom-built inventory and logistics software, will not only serve TGRSA but also have the capacity to support other teams worldwide.
While the unveiling focused on the impressive infrastructure, the underlying message is clear: TGRSA is doubling down on its commitment to rally-raid success. The enhanced in-house capabilities suggest a renewed focus on pushing the boundaries of the GR Hilux EVO, hinting at potential future evolutions of the vehicle designed to conquer the world's toughest terrains. Team principal Shameer Variawa expressed immense pride in the new facility, emphasising the collective vision and ability that it represents. Glenn Crompton, the vice-president of marketing at Toyota SA Motors, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the new hub as the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Toyota's motorsport endeavours and their partnership with SVR.
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