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…
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.
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.
