Toyota City, Japan, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - GAZOO Racing (GR) held the world premiere today of the GRMN Corolla―the ultimate GR Corolla, engineered to deliver a confident, full-throttle experience on Germany's Nürburgring racetrack, the starting point for both GR, which is committed to building ever-better motorsports-bred cars, and Toyota Master Driver Morizo. The GRMN Corolla represents a comprehensive honing of the GR Corolla ignited by Morizo's strong desire to "bring back a Corolla that captivates our customers".The GRMN Corolla is to be available in limited quantities, primarily in Japan, North America, and Australia. In Japan, plans are to accept sales negotiations requests via the "GR app" smartphone app from around autumn 2026, with sales scheduled to begin in 2027. The new model is now on display at the Fuji Motorsports Forest Welcome Center until June 28.*1GRMN Corolla (prototype in Black Gravite)The GRMN Corolla, as the ultimate GR Corolla, enables a high level of car-driver unity even when pushing the limits.Its increased engine torque aims to unleash greater untamed energy.It features exclusively designed aerodynamic performance parts and a suspension honed through competing in the Super Taikyu Series and testing at the Nürburgring.Its 4WD control was optimized through repeated testing at the Nürburgring.The cockpit is equipped with a custom-designed driver's seat and a brush-metal instrument panel and has been evolved for enabling the driver to focus more fully on driving.In addition to the 2-seater GRMN Corolla, a 5-seater MORIZO RR version equipped with the GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission is currently being developed.Aiming for a car that can attack the Nürburgring at full throttleSpurred by the stance of Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman and Master Driver Akio Toyoda, a.k.a. Morizo, of: "If it's going to bear the GRMN name, it needs to be a car that can duly handle the Nürburgring", the development team honed the GRMN Corolla on what is said to be the world's most grueling race course. Going all out on the Nürburgring, which provides road inputs and surface variations not found on regular test courses, highlights a car's weaknesses. Developing the GRMN Corolla at the Nürburgring enabled crafting a car that can be controlled at will at all speeds, even on rough surfaces.In addition to development through track testing at the Nürburgring, the GRMN Corolla also went through its paces in Japan's Super Taikyu Series. It was also methodically validated using advanced driving simulators. But it was driving it at the Nürburgring that brought unexpected challenges to the fore. The development team overcame those challenges one by one in pursuit of achieving a high level of car-driver unity, enabling the car and driver to remain in constant, effective communication even when pushing the limits.GR has applied the insights gained from GRMN Corolla development to the evolution of the base GR Corolla. For the 2026 GR Corolla, announced in September 2025 and launched in November of that year, the application of structural adhesive was extended by 13.9 meters to 32.7 meters to reinforce the body structure, and an added cool-air duct reduces the rise in intake air temperature during high-load driving. Both were the result of applying lessons learned at the Nürburgring.GRMN Corolla main featuresAerodynamic performance: Super Taikyu Series-tested and Nürburgring-honedIn Super Taikyu Series and similar races and at the Nürburgring, cars constantly travel at high speeds and experience high g-forces. Maximizing vehicle performance under these conditions crucially requires that all four wheels maintain firm contact with the road. The GRMN Corolla features exclusively developed aerodynamic performance parts for enhanced road holding. Its hood duct, fender ducts, front side spoilers, and rear wing incorporate know-how gained from racing, tested on the hydrogen engine-powered GR Corolla that competes in the Super Taikyu Series. Based on all-inclusive Super Taikyu Series trial and error, fine-tuning came at the Nürburgring. This effort included adjusting the rear wing angle, which features a five-step adjustment mechanism, in 1-degree increments during driving tests with professional drivers to verify effectiveness and determine the optimal specification.Exclusive suspension fine-tuned through extensive Nürburgring testingThe GRMN Corolla's suspension employs exclusive front and rear monotube shock absorbers with rebound springs for improved inner-wheel traction during cornering and for enhanced high-speed cornering performance.The Nürburgring road surface includes environments that induce significant vertical suspension travel beyond that experienced on typical circuits. To ensure high stability for confident driving even in such conditions, extensive Nürburgring test runs facilitated optimization of bump-stop characteristics. The exclusive shock absorbers were developed by adjusting their stroke down to a millimeter at the front and rear for optimal balance. Furthermore, for enhanced cornering stability and braking performance, the GRMN Corolla sports 245/40ZR18 "Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2" high-grip tires, which are 10 mm wider than those on the base vehicle.The control program of the GRMN Corolla's EPS (electric power steering) has been modified from that on the base vehicle to generate the required amount of assistance torque even during cornering under high g-forces. The exclusively tuned 4WD control system provides optimal rear torque distribution during straight-line driving and enhanced stability at the onset of steering input at extremely high speeds.Internal combustion engine evolution via the hydrogen engine-powered CorollaGR has been gaining valuable lessons for the evolution of the internal combustion engine by competing in the Super Taikyu Series with a hydrogen engine-powered GR Corolla, as extended, high-load endurance racing helps heighten not only the potential of hydrogen technology but also that of fundamental internal combustion engine components. Applying insights gained from competing in the Super Taikyu Series has enabled the GRMN Corolla to achieve a maximum engine torque of 415 Nm*2, 15 Nm greater than that of the base vehicle. The development team optimized the GRMN Corolla's engine characteristics by analyzing the range of engine use during circuit driving, focusing on increasing torque in the 3,600-4,800 rpm mid-speed range, which is crucial for accelerating out of corners. To maintain stable, high engine output even during continuous full-throttle driving, the GRMN Corolla comes with an intercooler spray system, in addition to the cool-air duct added to the 2026 GR Corolla.Also, in pursuit of an even higher level of performance and an "untamed energy that captivates customers", the GRMN Corolla has no rear seats as part of an effort to achieve thorough weight reduction. The power-to-weight ratio has been improved by reducing weight by 30 kilograms compared to the base vehicle*3, providing customers with an unparalleled driving experience.A cockpit designed to unlock an even higher level of performanceThe GRMN Corolla boasts not only exclusively tuned driving performance but also a specially designed cockpit featuring a driver's seat and an instrument panel meticulously crafted to enable customers to unlock the value of genuine driving performance. The custom-designed full bucket driver's seat*4 was based on the driving position in Super Taikyu Series race cars to achieve holding performance capable of withstanding higher lateral g-forces. The carefully adjusted seat length facilitates clutch operation, and the seat's glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) construction helps reduce weight. In addition to safety being first and foremost, the aim was to create a driver's seat that enhances car-driver unity while considering everyday ease of ingress and egress. Development involved installing the seat in a car competing in the Super Taikyu Series and incorporating feedback from various professional drivers, including that from evaluations conducted while wearing a helmet.The cockpit's design and meticulously considered color scheme create a space that enables the driver to focus more fully on driving and features an exclusive flocked instrument panel and flocked front pillars. Carbon-fiber ornamentation―developed and manufactured by the Carbon Section at Toyota Motor Corporation's Motomachi Plant―adorns the instrument panel on the passenger side. Other special items include instrument panel padding bearing Morizo's signature, door trim and shift knob accented in Alumite Red, and a GRMN-exclusive serial number plate. GR Corolla MORIZO RR (concept model)Currently under development is the GR Corolla MORIZO RR, an ultimate 5-seater model of the GR Corolla equipped with the GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, for which the unveiling and launch dates have yet to be determined. The GR Corolla MORIZO RR is now on display as a concept model alongside the GRMN Corolla at the Fuji Motorsports Forest Welcome Center until June 28.*1*1 Please check the Fuji Motorsports Forest website (https://en.fujimotorsportsforest.jp/) for information on closed days and public opening hours during the exhibition period.*2 415 Nm is the maximum engine torque for the Japan-specification model*3 Maximum engine torque and vehicle weight vary by market.*4 Only in Japan and Australia; semi-bucket seats in North AmericaToyota Motor Corporation works to develop and manufacture innovative, safe and high-quality products and services that create happiness by providing mobility for all. We believe that true achievement comes from supporting our customers, partners, employees, and the communities in which we operate. Since our founding over 80 years ago in 1937, we have applied our Guiding Principles in pursuit of a safer, greener and more inclusive society. Today, as we transform into a mobility company developing connected, automated, shared and electrified technologies, we also remain true to our Guiding Principles and many of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to help realize an ever-better world, where everyone is free to move.SDGs Initiatives: https://global.toyota/en/sustainability/sdgs/ Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, June 4, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Nippon Foundation, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, officially opened the Island States Ocean Summit on June 3, 2026 at Hotel New Otani Tokyo. His Majesty the Emperor attended the Opening Ceremony and delivered remarks. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also attended the Opening Ceremony and delivered an address, underscoring the Government of Japan’s strong support for the Summit and its outcomes. Approximately 300 participants, including heads of state, ministers, senior officials, and experts from 35 countries across the Pacific, Caribbean, and Indian Ocean regions, are taking part in the Summit.Building on discussions held throughout the two-day Summit, The Nippon Foundation will announce a new action plan to strengthen support for island states on the evening of June 4.Remarks by His Majesty the EmperorAt the Opening Ceremony, His Majesty the Emperor delivered remarks. The full text of His Majesty’s remarks is attached as Annex 1.Opening Ceremony HighlightsRepresenting the host organization, Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of The Nippon Foundation, delivered the opening address.Mr. Sasakawa stated:“Today, island states face serious threats, including sea-level rise and extreme weather events caused by climate change. These challenges can no longer be solved by any one country or institution alone. Through this Summit, we must bring together our wisdom and determination to inspire global solidarity and action.”He reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to further strengthening its support for island states through the outcomes of the Summit.His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway emphasized the importance of Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management, stating:“At the same time, the ocean is not only a victim of climate change. It is a solution, continuing to offer opportunities that can bring benefits to nature and people in island states. Sustainable ocean planning and management can create frameworks for attracting investment in green ocean industries.”He highlighted the importance of strengthening climate resilience in island states while advancing sustainable ocean economies through science-based ocean management.Speaking on behalf of island states and serving as Summit Co-Chair, H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), stated:“The ocean is not a backdrop to our lives. It is our economy. Our food security. Our culture. Our very sovereignty. And it is changing faster than our communities can adapt. As AOSIS Chair, I speak for nations that together contribute less than one percent of global emissions, yet we face the most severe impacts of global warming. International climate and ocean governance is not delivering for the most vulnerable. We need action that matches the urgency.”Keynote Addresses and Group PhotoFollowing the Opening Ceremony, keynote addresses were delivered in the presence of His Majesty the Emperor and Crown Prince Haakon of Norway.H.E. Mr Peter Thomson, United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, and Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, stressed that there can be no healthy planet without a healthy ocean and highlighted the importance of island states advancing Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM).The Summit will continue on June 4, focusing on practical measures and support mechanisms that enable island states to achieve both conservation and sustainable use of their ocean resources.A Co-Chairs’ Summary will be released on the evening of June 4. Building on that Summary, the Nippon Foundation will announce a new ten-year action plan to strengthen support for island states.About the Island States Ocean SummitIsland States, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS), are widely recognized as being among the states most affected by the impacts of climate change and face an urgent need to strengthen their resilience in response to unprecedented environmental changes.The Island States Ocean Summit is the first international summit dedicated specifically to oceans and island states and aims to explore pathways that support the long-term resilience and self-reliance of SIDS. In collaboration with leaders from government, academia, industry, and the ocean community, the Summit promotes the development of new action plans that support the conservation of marine environments while enabling the sustainable use of ocean resources.The Summit discussions are co-chaired by H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), Mr. Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, and Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, Honorary Chair of The Nippon Foundation.The outcomes of the Summit will contribute to future international discussions on biodiversity, climate change, and ocean governance, including COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), COP31 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the BBNJ process, and the 2027 Ocean Decade Conference through the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.About Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM)Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM) is a comprehensive, strategic and future-oriented framework designed to guide decision-making about the overall sustainable use and conservation of a nation’s entire ocean resources. It is a whole-of-society, whole-of-government approach that serves as a unifying umbrella framework for ocean-related governance at all scales.By developing integrated plans for fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, and other oceanbased industries, SOPM helps countries strengthen climate resilience while ensuring the longterm sustainability of marine ecosystems and coastal communities.The Island States Ocean Summit supports island states in accelerating the adoption and implementation of SOPM and strengthening their capacity to balance ocean conservation, sustainable economic development, and climate resilience.About The Nippon Foundation https://www.nippon-foundation.or.jp/ Together, for pain and hope. Together, for the future. Established in 1962, The Nippon Foundation is Japan’s largest philanthropic foundation. The Foundation supports a broad range of initiatives including humanitarian assistance, disability inclusion, child welfare, disaster response, and ocean conservation.Media ContactIsland States Ocean Summit Press Desk (within Kyodo PR)Email: isos-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp Annex 1: Remarks by His Majesty the EmperorYour Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of the Kingdom of Norway, Prime Minister Takaichi,Your Excellencies, Dr. Yohei Sasakawa, Distinguished Guests and Participants,It gives me great pleasure to be here today to attend the opening of the Island States Ocean Summit together with all of you. Japan, as an island nation, has from ancient times reaped the rich blessings of the ocean. As we witness rising sea levels due to global warming and a series of disasters caused by extreme weather around the world, I am deeply reminded of the importance of maintaining the delicate balance on Earth through the grand water cycle, where water is brought in from the sea and returns to the sea.I myself have for many years been interested in water issues, including safe drinking water, sanitation, water transport, climate change and water-related natural disasters, which are deeply intertwined with national and global challenges. I have always hoped that discussions on these issues would be deepened further around the world.It is my understanding that the purpose of this summit is to promote, through collaboration between private organizations, governments, and international organizations, national-level plans in island nations that aim to achieve both marine environment conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. I would like to express my sincere respect to all of you gathered here and to the participating nations, as you cooperate in sharing your collective wisdom and experience, and, by building upon the latest science while at the same time preserving traditions, endeavor to address global issues through international cooperation.To be mindful of the ocean and to work for its sound future is, in essence, nothing less than to safeguard our own future. As we face in our times many challenges, including rising sea levels, it is my earnest hope that a sense of solidarity among us will bring harmony and hope to the world. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you all.Press Release: http://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/2026604.pdf Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com