Nissan converted the legendary R32 GT-R into an EV, which could be a teaser for the future all-electric Godzilla.
Nissan turns heads with a bold new project: an electric version of the iconic Skyline GT-R R32. Known as the R32EV Concept, this one-off build replaces the legendary RB26DETT twin-turbo engine with an all-electric powertrain. The car will make its official debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January, but it has already sparked plenty of excitement—and controversy—among enthusiasts.
The original R32 Skyline GT-R, launched in 1989, is considered one of Nissan’s greatest achievements. Nicknamed “Godzilla” for its dominance in motorsports, it won multiple championships, including the Japanese Grand Touring Championship from 1990 to 1993 and the Australian Touring Car Championship in 1991 and 1992. Its racing pedigree, paired with its twin-turbo inline-six engine and all-wheel-drive setup, earned it a place in the hearts of car fans worldwide.
Fast forward to today, and Nissan has reimagined the R32 for the EV era. This project began in March 2023 with a team of volunteer engineers at Nissan Works. Their goal was to preserve the charm and performance of the original GT-R while embracing the possibilities of modern electrification. Despite the backlash from purists who see electrifying the GT-R as sacrilegious, Nissan is proving that even a classic can adapt to a new era of sustainable performance.
While Nissan hasn’t shared the exact specs of the R32EV, it’s likely that the car uses the dual-motor e-4ORCE drivetrain from the Ariya SUV. This setup could produce up to 429 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, far surpassing the R32’s official 276-hp rating. However, fans of the original know that Nissan intentionally underrated the RB26DETT engine, which often produced over 300 horsepower in stock form. Some even speculate that the R32EV might pack closer to 389 horsepower, giving it a significant boost in performance compared to its gas-powered predecessor.
The R32EV maintains much of the original car’s design, but with subtle changes to fit its new electric identity. The fog lights have been removed, the brake calipers are now orange, and the classic silhouette remains largely intact. This approach highlights Nissan’s desire to respect the R32’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of what a GT-R can be.
This one-off project may also hint at the future of the GT-R line. Nissan has already teased the Hyper Force concept, an all-electric GT-R unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. That concept boasted over 1,300 horsepower and solid-state batteries, signaling the potential for a next-generation GT-R that could redefine the brand’s performance image. The R32EV serves as a bridge, keeping the spirit of the GT-R alive while preparing fans for the possibility of an all-electric R36 in the years ahead.
While this project is unlikely to go into production, it demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to innovation, even as the company faces financial challenges. By reimagining one of its most iconic models for the EV age, Nissan is showing that the GT-R’s legacy can thrive, even without the roar of an internal combustion engine.
