Is Toyota Creating the Next Nürburgring?

Nestled into the mountains between the city of Toyota and Okazaki is the development of a track that I can't wait to add to my simulator list (of course I want to visit it IRL but my expectations are realistic). The Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama is 1,600 acres with the majority of that, about 955 acres, dedicated to ensuring beautiful scenery for the track and facility. “With the aim of making ever-better cars, we have continued to make various efforts in ‘feeling the road’ and ‘conversing with cars’ through driving tests around the world, including our Five Continent Drive Project and the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race.” Explained Toyota President Akio Toyoda.

The course will take advantage of the local terrain and feature a 75 meter change in elevation from top to bottom. With sweeping turns and a "country road" feel to the entire track.

The main goal for this facility is to continue to develop innovative automobiles. Investing 300 Billion Yen into the facility by 2023 and currently hiring a slew of test drivers. I'm personally excited to see what type of performance vehicles may spawn from this magical land of automotive enchantment.

Well, I'm off to apply as a test driver. Wish me luck cause my Japanese is horrendous at best and my tattoos may keep me from ever getting the job in the first place. Until next time, keep the shiny side scratched! -J. Mill Still reading? Check out the Toyota leaderboard here on wheelwell: https://wheelwell.com/community/toyota