Nissan Unveils Skyline GT-R R32 EV Conversion

Engine Running: The Early Stages

【R32EV】vol.1

As we wait in anticipation for the R36, Nissan is taking a trip down memory lane by working on a Skyline GT-R R32. An engineer who was drawn to the iconic supercar nicknamed “Godzilla” had the idea of converting it to electric power. His concept quickly earned the automaker’s support, and the project was officially christened “R32 EV.”

The recently-released teaser video insinuates the EV conversion is still just beginning since we catch a glimpse of the big exhaust tip and can hear the combustion engine. If Nissan wants to retain the same AWD properties of the R32, they’ll require to fit one electric motor in the front, as well as another at the back. So as to hold tight to the classic look, the technicians will need to stuff the batteries into the hood, trunk, or take out the rear seats.

Nissan is staying tight-lipped about the project, but the mastermind behind the R32 EV declared: “By combining the car that I love the most with the technology that I think is the best, we can create a car that people around the world will be more excited about.” To build up anticipation for the project, the company has created a special page on its website in Japan, suggesting that more teasers will be released soon.

Almost 12 months ago, Nissan Chief Operating Officer Ashwani Gupta made a statement to Top Gear magazine that an electric GT-R “will definitely come one day.” This was likely not referring to the custom-made restomod, but rather an actual production vehicle purchasable by the public. It is yet to be determined if the highly anticipated R36 will keep its combustion engine for a last generation, maybe with some hybrid assistance.

The declaration of a no-pollution Skyline comes after Toyota’s equivalent decision to create its hydrogen and battery-powered AE86 electric restorations.

Source: Nissan