Toyota New Zealand has announced that it is exploring the possibility of a one-make race series for a new performance-bred iteration of the headline-generating Toyota 86.

Pending the outcome of discussions with Motorsport New Zealand, the race programme would be a ‘world first’ for the 86 sports coupe and a unique opportunity for Kiwi racers to take part in a new era of New Zealand motorsport.

Toyota has built a prototype version of the racing car named TR 86. Building on the passion and enthusiasm for the ever-popular single-seater category the Toyota Racing Series, this new TR 86 would become a limited edition star with its own championship.

“Toyota New Zealand has long been a passionate supporter of motorsport in this country and the TRS championship continues to be a leading category that attracts a high quality grid of talented young racers from across the globe,” says Toyota Racing’s Barrie Thomlinson.

“The new TR 86 racer would add another dimension to TRS by offering an opportunity for racing enthusiasts from a diverse range of backgrounds, some new to the sport and others who are looking to step up from other categories, to enter into a manufacturer backed, professional environment, driving what promises to be an extremely exciting race package,” he said.

Built and developed in New Zealand using race components, the TR 86 will be the ultimate turnkey track car that will be strictly controlled and governed to ensure all competitors compete on equal terms in equal equipment.

The car features an FIA-compliant homologated roll cage, race-tuned suspension, performance exhaust system, ECU map upgrade, racing brake package and an 18”wheel and tyre package; while the cockpit features include customised race seats, steering wheel and 6-point seatbelts.

The TR 86 car will be on display during the TRS championship season and prospective racers will be canvassed to confirm the level of interest, with the series planned to debut later in 2013.

Toyota New Zealand considering one-make 86 racing series