Skip advert
Advertisement

Nissan GT-R Skyline R32 EV concept teased

The R32 GT-R looks to be making a comeback in 2023, but it could well be without its iconic RB26…

R32 EV concept teaser

Over three decades since the R32 GT-R’s 1989 debut, Nissan has released an exciting new teaser of what it’s calling the ‘R32 EV’. Details are few and far between at this stage, but this first look points towards the development of an all-electric concept, converted by Nissan as a 2023 restomod.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Launched 34 years ago as a model to compete in Japan’s Group A racing series, the R32 went on to win the Japanese Grand Touring Championship four years in a row, finishing first in all 29 races it entered to earn it the famous Godzilla name. Since then, it has gained a cult following along with its GT-R successors, making a 2023 revival an exciting prospect.

> Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 - review, history, prices and specs

While this first teaser video features the sound of the R32’s iconic RB26DETT in-line six, the concept won’t feature a petrol engine. Instead, it’s likely to be an EV with some form of artificial sound augmentation to evoke the howl of the RB26, if this clip is anything to go by.

Translating official text from Japanese to English, the marque confirms that the electric R32 project was sparked by a Nissan engineer with a particular interest in the model. They said: ‘I want to build a more exciting car by adding the latest electrification technology that I am involved with to my favourite car.’

In 2021, Nissan showcased its EV powertrain technology in the Ariya Single Seater Concept, utilising tech that made its way to the Ariya SUV. Nissan's most potent current production EV powertrain is found in the Ariya e-4ORCE Performance, with a motor on each axle producing a combined 389bhp and 442lb ft of torque – whether the R32 EV will receive an adaption of this or an all-new setup remains to be seen. 

With the original R32 GT-R launching with what was a cutting-edge ATTESA E-TS four-wheel-drive system and even rear-wheel steering, it will be fascinating to see just how Nissan tackles the conversion to all-electric power.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The Nissan GT-R is finally dead after 18 years
Nissan GT-R finishes production
News

The Nissan GT-R is finally dead after 18 years

The Nissan GT-R has finally ended production, at over 48,000 units after 18 years on sale. It’ll be missed.
28 Aug 2025
Four used BMW M cars for less than a basic new 1-series
Cheap M cars
News

Four used BMW M cars for less than a basic new 1-series

£32k will buy you a bog standard 2025 120 or a 552bhp M6, and many greats besides…
29 Aug 2025
Caterham Horse prototype 2025 review – new turbo engine keeps the Seven alive
HORSE powered Caterham
Reviews

Caterham Horse prototype 2025 review – new turbo engine keeps the Seven alive

Caterham needs a replacement for Ford’s out-of-production Sigma engine. Its solution is a 1.3 turbo from Horse. We drive it
28 Aug 2025