Toyota TS040 Hybrid Set for Unveil in March

Photo: Toyota Racing

Toyota’s new LMP1 contender for the FIA World Endurance Championship will be unveiled in March, it has been confirmed.

The Japanese manufacturer has scheduled the launch of the new gasoline-powered hybrid, understood to be named the TS040, on March 27 at Paul Ricard, the day before the start of the FIA WEC’s official two-day pre-season test at the French circuit.

While it’s believed the car has yet to complete any on-track testing, Toyota Racing technical director Pascal Vasselon confirmed late last year that the TS040 will be powered by a development of the TS030’s 3.4-liter V8 engine, while employing front and rear hybrid powertrains.

All six of the manufacturer’s drivers: Alex Wurz, Nicolas Lapierre, Kaz Nakajima, Sebastien Buemi, Anthony Davidson and Stephane Sarrazin, have been retained for 2014, while Mike Conway has been added as a test and reserve driver.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John