Toyota Motor Corporation announced that all vehicles provided for the upcoming 102nd Tokyo-Hakone Collegiate Ekiden Championship will be fully electrified. Scheduled for January 2-3, 2026, this prestigious relay marathon will utilize a range of electrified vehicles, including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs). This initiative aims to reduce the race’s environmental impact by using plant-derived, low-carbon gasoline, significantly lowering carbon dioxide emissions.
The Hakone Ekiden, a longstanding tradition since its establishment in 1920, showcases the resilience and spirit of student athletes from various universities in Japan. Toyota has been involved with the event since 2003, initially providing operational vehicles, and has served as a sponsor since 2011. Throughout its partnership, the company has focused on minimizing vehicle emissions to enhance the race’s sustainability and athlete-friendliness.
Electrification and Sustainability Initiatives
For the 2026 race, Toyota will supply a total of 40 electrified vehicles. Among them will be a joint camera truck that captures footage of the leading runners and a Century model serving as the headquarters vehicle. Both will be original FCEV models, utilizing fuel cells that generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. These vehicles operate quietly and produce only water vapor as a byproduct.
In addition to the camera and headquarters vehicles, electrified transport options will be available for personnel and equipment. e-Palettes will function as emergency response vehicles, while FCEV Coasters will be designated for transporting staff associated with the event. Each university team will operate HEVs, which will run on a combination of low-carbon E10 gasoline—comprised of 10% biofuel—and traditional fuel. The E10 fuel will be supplied by ENEOS Corporation and is derived from non-edible sorghum plants, produced through the Research Association of Biomass Innovation for Next Generation Automobile Fuels.
These steps aim to significantly reduce exhaust emissions and carbon footprints associated with the race, promoting a more sustainable environment.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Toyota’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the Hakone Ekiden. The company has launched its “Achieving Zero” initiative, focusing on addressing societal and environmental challenges. This vision aims to reduce negative impacts on individuals and the planet while promoting a sustainable future. Toyota is also pursuing its “Beyond Zero” approach, which emphasizes creating additional value to improve lives and communities.
With more than 80 years of history since its founding in 1937, Toyota remains dedicated to developing innovative products and services that support a safer, greener, and more inclusive world. The organization is transforming into a mobility company, advancing connected, automated, shared, and electrified technologies. This transformation aligns with many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting Toyota’s ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and move freely.
As the 2026 Hakone Ekiden approaches, Toyota’s initiatives are set to redefine the event’s operational landscape, ensuring it becomes a benchmark for sustainability in sports.
