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Issue #17:July 24, 2026
TLC is continuing its efforts to build an ever-better rally vehicles for the 2027 Dakar Rally, with the goal of reclaiming the top position in the Stock class.
Beginning with the Dakar Rally held in January 2026, the Production Vehicle category in which TLC had competed for many years was transformed and reborn as the new "Stock class." As part of its commitment to "making ever-better vehicles," TLC entered the rally with a new rally vehicle based on the Land Cruiser 300 GR SPORT, developed to meet the new regulatory requirements. However, the team finished in 3rd place in the class. The result fell short of the team’s target and left them with a sense of frustration.
To ensure that the Land Cruiser continues to be a vehicle that can "go anywhere and come back alive," and to return to the top of the Stock class once again, TLC began discussions and considerations immediately after the 2026 rally, focusing on further strengthening both the rally vehicle and the team structure.
Working together as one with those involved in Land Cruiser development at Toyota Auto Body and Toyota Motor Corporation, as well as TLC's partner companies, the team conducted a DR (Design Review)*1 of the 2026 rally vehicle. The objective of this process is to generate ideas related to vehicle structure and design. In addition, TLC has tested countermeasures that address the issues encountered in the previous rally, together with development testing that will lead to an even more evolved vehicle. These efforts are helping shape the next-generation rally vehicle that TLC will enter in Dakar Rally 2027, which begins on January 1, 2027.
Updates on TLC's activities will continue to be shared through the official website, as well as the team's official Instagram and YouTube channels. We sincerely welcome and appreciate your ongoing support and encouragement!
*1 A review activity using actual vehicles and components to analyze issues and improve the next-generation vehicle.