Today Toyota Racing unveiled its new TS040 Hybrid LMP1 racecar and a revised driver lineup which will take the us into a new era of hybrid motorsport.
And this happens due to its new 1000 hp hybrid drivetrain, which is now considered the most advanced one in motorsport. But well see if that’s true when the WEC starts in April.
The 3.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 gasoline engine used on the previous TS030 has been drilled to 3.7-liters in order to improve heat efficiency and gain more power, while cutting down the fuel consumption a bit. Engineering is amazing, right? If FIA says you should lower fuel consumption, what do you do? Increase the engine size and laugh in their face!
“Racing has been significantly upgraded due to the challenge of new regulations. The regulations require a big reduction in fuel consumption but, to remain competitive, we of course want to retain engine power; it is not a realistic option to reduce consumption by reducing power. We looked at various possibilities but the most appropriate solution for us was to increase the displacement of the engine to improve heat efficiency whilst upgrading the hybrid system.” explained Motor Sports Unit Development Division General Manager Hisatake Murata.
The new V8 engine now makes 520 hp. But this is not all, as the engineers also fitted the car with a new AISIN AW electric motor connected to the front wheels, complimenting the DENSO unit in the rear.
Both electric motors provide a total of 480 hp boost, and the 4x4 system kicks in only after you reach 120 km/h. So in total, the Toyota TS040 makes no less than 1,000 hp. Check the new system in this animated video bellow and don’t forget to scroll further down and see the new photos.
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