Saudi Racer Dania Akeel to Drive Toyota’s Hydrogen Dakar Hilux | Dania Akeel

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Saudi Racer Dania Akeel to Drive Toyota’s Hydrogen Dakar Hilux

Saudi rally driver Dania Akeel will drive Toyota’s hydrogen-powered Hilux in the 2027 Dakar Rally’s experimental Mission 1000 category.

The completed DKR GR FC Hilux is entering dynamic testing, with Akeel helping develop technology intended to inform future road cars.

Its two fuel-cell stacks generate electricity for a 536bhp electric powertrain, using hydrogen stored in four high-pressure tanks. Toyota says it produces no tailpipe CO₂ while driving, although hydrogen production and other lifecycle emissions remain relevant.

Akeel, already a Dakar stage winner, brings rally-raid experience to the programme. Mission 1000 tests alternative technologies in demanding desert conditions, rather than competing directly for outright Dakar victory against the main rally field. Gazoo Racing accelerate preparations for their 2027 Dakar Rally FCEV challenge.

BrownCarGuy Says: “Until 2018, Saudi Arabia was the only country in the world that didn’t allow women to drive. Today, Saudi women such as Dania Akeel are winning stages in international motorsport and helping develop pioneering racing technology. This is fantastic to see, and will hopefully encourage more women to enter motorsport.”