Lexus CT 200h racer to debut at the 'ring

By Paul Bond

16th May 2011

The current trend for hybrid racers continues with the annoucement that Japanese firm Lexus will follow in the footsteps of both Porsche and Peugeot by competing at the Nurburgring with a potent version of its CT 200h compact hybrid.

Engineered by the Gazoo Racing team, who also run a track-honed LFA supercar, the racing CT uses a bigger, more powerful 2.4-litre petrol engine in conjuction with the standard car's battery pack and electric motor.

Other than the eye-catching racing livery, the cosmetic changes are surprisingly small over the road-going version, although an aggressive front splitter and roll-cage both help it look the part.

Apparently the technology on board, which includes regenerative braking and the ability to run on eletricty alone for short periods, makes the CT 200h the cleanest race car in its class, emitting less C02 and NOx gases than any of its competitors. But the batteries can also be used for an extra boost of torque on the straights.

The new car will make its debut at a six-hour endurance event at the twisting Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany, and will compete in the SP4 class this weekend, ably piloted by Gazoo's all-Japanese driving team.