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This artist's conception depicts the Lexus LF-A as it will appear in the 24-hour event at the N?rburgring next month. (Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.)

TOKYO — Toyota has whetted the appetite of Lexus LF-A fans with word on Tuesday that it will once again enter its LF-A two-seater in the N?rburgring 24-hour endurance race in late May. It said in a statement that the prototype bound for the track is “being developed with an eye toward commercial release.”

The automaker said changes to the racing version of the car are minimal.

“Although engine, powertrain and frame specifications differ little from those of the base vehicle, the race vehicle has been retuned to better meet the demands of the course,” Toyota said. “Engineers intend to use feedback from the grueling race to further enhance the LF-A's performance.”

The prototype is outfitted with a 4.8-liter V10 engine that develops more than 493 horsepower, said Toyota. It is linked to a sequential manual gearbox. The body is made of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer. The prototype gets race-grade safety equipment, including a roll cage and a special fuel tank.

The race takes place from May 21-24.