Toyota Motor Corporation will participate in the Automobile Council 2026, a premier classic car enthusiast event scheduled from April 10 to April 12 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. The company will present a curated display of six iconic vehicles, with three showcased at the Toyota booth and three at the GAZOO Racing booth.
Aligning with the vision of the Automobile Business & Culture Association of Japan to celebrate cars as a vital part of Japanese culture, Toyota continues to advance its heritage initiatives under the “Toyota Classic” program. Through its participation in one of Japan’s largest classic car gatherings, the company aims to highlight the legacy of its vehicles, connect with enthusiasts, and contribute to the preservation and growth of automotive culture.
At the Toyota booth, the spotlight will be on the evolution of Toyota’s sports cars, led by the legendary Toyota 2000GT—widely regarded as the first Japanese car to gain global recognition. The display will also feature a replica of the Toyota Publica Sports, representing early innovation and future inspiration, along with the Toyota Sports 800, restored as part of Toyota’s efforts to pass on technical expertise and nurture new talent.
Meanwhile, the GAZOO Racing booth will present performance icons including the Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86 and Toyota Supra JZA80, both equipped with GR Heritage Parts, alongside the Lexus LFA, showcasing the brand’s performance legacy.
The exhibited models reflect key milestones in Toyota’s history. The Toyota Publica Sports, first introduced in 1962, marked Toyota’s entry into sports car development using aircraft-inspired technology. The Toyota Sports 800, launched in 1965, built on this foundation with lightweight, aerodynamic design aimed at a wider audience. The Toyota 2000GT, introduced in the late 1960s, earned international acclaim by setting multiple world and international records.
Toyota’s “Toyota Classic” program also highlights ongoing efforts at the Toyota Automobile Museum in Nagakute, Aichi Prefecture, where heritage vehicles and automotive culture are preserved and promoted through exhibitions and educational initiatives. Additionally, the Global Production Center at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City serves as a hub for restoration activities, skill development, and passing on craftsmanship to future generations.
Through its participation at Automobile Council 2026, Toyota aims to celebrate its rich legacy while inspiring future innovation, reinforcing its commitment to preserving automotive heritage and culture.
