We’re not quite sure just how close and exciting the racing will be once the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR) Vios Challenge kicks off in August, but the grid will be substantial. Up to now, 40 cars are involved and that’s what we will see in the first round, scheduled to be held in Penang.

According to UMW Toyota Motors (UMWT), only 30 cars were assigned during the series’ launch, but after additional requests by racers came in, the stakeholders and TRD decided to add another ten slots.

“The interest in the Vios Challenge had been overwhelming,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor Mr. Ravindran Kurusamy. “We’ve had so many requests by racers who wanted to purchase a car and compete in the Vios Challenge but due to safety and logistics concerns, we have had to restrict the field to a maximum of 40 cars for this season,” he said.

At first, it was the celebrities which made the series rather unique and interesting, but now there are more substance to the racing aspect. Additional names who have signed up include a few who’s who in the local racing scene – namely Tengku Djan, Boy Wong and James Veerappan. And apparently, more big names are expected to be revealed by next week.

Not only that, even the deputy chairman of UMWT has signed up. Akio Takeyama said, “I am very excited to be taking part in my first race in the Vios Challenge. I have been working hard in the racing school and I have learned so much from my instructors. I can’t wait for the race to begin.”

Can’t wait!