Dania Akeel has been named the driver of the Toyota DKR GR FC Hilux that Gazoo Racing will enter into the 2027 Dakar Rally’s Mission 1000 challenge.

“This is a great opportunity for me to learn how new technologies are brought to life in the automotive world,” said Akeel. “To witness such a pioneering venture from the driver’s seat is a truly unique experience, which I hold as both a privilege and a pleasure, and to be able to share my feedback as a driver into the development of these technologies is very special.

“In rally raid, our biggest asset as a driver is to be able to race in diverse terrain and conditions requiring us to be flexible and effective in changing environments. Perfect for testing the reliability and durability of any new car or technology to the limit. This, I believe, will also help me enhance my skills by adapting to evolving technologies and to grow as a driver.”

Akeel currently races a Hilux from Overdrive Racing, with which she won the FIA Middle East Baja Cup in 2025. She continues to alternate between the Hilux and the Taurus T3 Max, but has been keen on committing to the Ultimate category on a full-time basis in the former.

Revealed in July, the DKR GR FC Hilux is a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that runs on hydrogen. It was developed by Overdrive in partnership with Toyota’s European R&D division in Brussels, Toyota Racing GmbH, and Toyota’s corporate arm back in Japan.

The HCEV uses the same frame, safety cell, suspension, and brakes as the regular DKR GR Hilux. Of course, the power source is the selling point: it consists of four high-pressure hydrogen tanks that weigh 8.4 kilograms in total, and said tanks are the same that’re currently used in the Toyota Mirai. The IAV Dragoon ECU controls two fuel cells that drive the powertrain. In total, the GR FC Hilux has 400 kW of output.

The body panels are made from a mix of carbon and natural fibers rather than just the former like on the standard Hilux. It also comes with a new high-voltage cooling system, a dedicated e-axle, and new electronics.