Toyota Kirloskar has unveiled concept racing versions of the Etios and Liva hatch at the Auto Expo. These cars would take part in its upcoming “Etios Motor Racing (EMR) Trophy,” one make racing series.
With the carmaker's in-house tuning division, Toyota Racing Development, supporting the race with performance parts, motorsport is now set to be a major marketing focus for 2012.
Local motorsports culture
Mr Hiroji Onishi, President, TMAP-Marketing and Sales said, “One of our objectives is to contribute to local motorsports culture in every country we do business. In the Asia Pacific region, you can see good examples in countries like Japan and Thailand. Today, I am very pleased to see the combination of Toyota and TRD happening again in India.”
The EMR Trophy series is slated to be held in the second half of 2013 comprising of 5-6 individual race events, and will race the Etios Sedan Petrol in the first season. Toyota will also partner with Indian motorsport experts such as Bangalore-based Red Rooster Racing.
Learning curve
Mr Sandeep Singh, DMD-Marketing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We see it as an ideal grassroots category for young drivers to learn and make their way up the motorsport ladder.”
The Japanese carmaker will also launch its new Prius Hybrid and a new variant of the Corolla Altis on Saturday. The company has also confirmed that its luxury brand - Lexus, will enter India in 2013.
On Friday, it showcased the Etios range with new upholstery options, apart from the new Camry. It also unveiled facelift versions of the Fortuner and Innova, which will be launched soon.