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Toyota to Enter Racing Kart Business

AICHI, Jun 02 (News On Japan) - Toyota Motor has announced plans to enter the racing kart business, positioning the move as a strategic step toward preparing the next generation for the future of the automobile industry.

At the endurance race held at Fuji Speedway, Toyota once again fielded a vehicle powered by a hydrogen engine, with Chairman Akio Toyoda himself taking part as a driver. "Hydrogen engine vehicles have finally caught up with regular cars," Toyoda said, underscoring the company’s continued push for carbon-neutral mobility.

This year's event also saw several manufacturers using low-carbon gasoline in their race cars, highlighting the industry's accelerating shift toward decarbonization. At the venue, attendees were invited to test ride go-karts powered by carbon-neutral fuels.

The go-karts, designed as entry-level vehicles suitable even for children, are part of Toyota’s long-term initiative to inspire interest in cars and mobility from a young age.

"We want children to discover the joy of driving early on," said Naoaki Ito, the lead developer of Toyota’s new 'GR Kart' project. "That experience could shape their future—whether as mechanics, car dealers, or other roles in the automotive world."

Although the launch date has yet to be finalized, Toyota aims to offer the new kart at roughly a quarter of the price of existing models.

Source: TBS

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