So, what's it all about the TS030 Hybrid anyway? In theory, this hybrid LMP succeeds where other Toyota Le Mans cars, especially the GT-One, left off, but there's a bit more to that.
This machine served as Toyota's return to Le Mans since the GT-One of 1999. It was equipped with Toyota's hybrid system-racing system developed by their production hybrid development team and the East Fuji Research Lab's motorsports division. It comes with a race-spec 3.4L V8 engine connected to a Denso electric motor built to the rear gearbox while power is sourced from its double-layer capacitor. In theory, it develops around 529HP of power and it was mated with a 6-speed sequential gearbox with mechanical locking differential.
Aside from the power, the TS030's bodywork is made out of carbon fiber and aluminum so in theory, it has a similar weight to its GT-One predecessor. For handling, the suspension setup is an independent double wishbone pushrod system for the added feel while maneuvering through corners.
In its first year, in 2012, it was supposed to make a debut appearance at Spa-Francorchamps but the chassis was damaged after it was crashed at Paul Ricard during testing sessions. On June 2012, the TS030 debuted at Le Mans but 82 laps later, one of the units, piloted by Anthony Davidson, sent this LMP flying after a crash with a Ferrari, badly injuring Davidson from the tragedy. Well, you get the idea about what just happened but this machine had a rough start in its debut appearance but when it took part in the 2012 World Endurance Championship season, its biggest accomplishment is when it won races from Sao Paulo, Fuji, and Shanghai. It placed 2nd overall in the 2012 season.
Despite its flaws, the TS030 is truly a work of genius, it's one of the reasons why Toyota stuck to their "FUN TO DRIVE, AGAIN" slogan as well as the whole DRIVING KIDS WITH TOYOTA nonsense but forget about that because it has been an honor to take on the TS030 in the world of Gran Turismo. Everybody agrees on that but there's something missing...Ah!
Looks like it's comparison time because with the TS030...it's time for this LMP to fulfill its wish as well as mine by comparing this to its predecessor, the GT-One. Where should I compare these two? Oh yes! Fuji!
Fuji Speedway! I'm going to settle these two racers once and for all and like I always do, fastest time wins. The game...IS ON!
Both machines weigh 900kg but there's a catch because while the TS030 is a hybrid racer, the GT-One relies only on fossil fuel and nothing else. The TS030 lasts longer than the GT-One but the GT-One is more powerful than the TS030. That's 599HP versus a theoretical 529HP, meaning that the TS030 has a lot of catching up to do...or is it?
After a lap round Fuji, the GT-One finished at 1:32.882 while the TS030 finished at 1:35.847, about three seconds slower than the GT-One but it's closer than I thought.
So, there you go, the TS030 is truly one of Toyota's accomplishments in the field of motorsports and despite not being as quick as the GT-One, it participated more races and scored more wins than its predecessor can do...well, sort of.
At least, that's our wish come true.
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