AUTO

The R32 GT-R Goes Electric in a Way No One Saw Coming

December 13, 2024

Nissan will unveil an electric version of the iconic Skyline GT-R R32, replacing its twin-turbo engine with an EV powertrain.
The electric GT-R could use the Nissan ARIYA’s 389-hp drivetrain and e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system.
This project hints at a possible future production model and connects to the Hyper Force concept’s 1,300-hp vision.

A flash of headlights cuts through the Tokyo dusk as the all-electric Nissan GT-R R32 rolls into view, a reimagining of a legend. Known affectionately as “Godzilla” since its debut in 1989, the Skyline GT-R has long stood as a symbol of performance, precision, and unrelenting dominance.

Now, Nissan has replaced its iconic twin-turbo engine with an electric powertrain, opening a new chapter in the GT-R’s legacy.

This project, led by a team of dedicated Nissan engineers, will debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January. The electrified R32 represents a determined effort by the company, coming a year after it introduced the Hyper Force concept, an electric GT-R with an impressive 1,300 horsepower.

Nissan Hyper Force front side view — _{Hyper Force EV concept car by Nissan.}

Nissan Revives Skyline GT-R R32 as Electric EV Godzilla

Nissan began this project in March 2023 with a team of volunteer engineers focused on blending the iconic past of the Skyline GT-R R32 with modern EV technology. This one-off model honors the legacy of the R32 while hinting at what lies ahead for performance vehicles.

While the company has not shared full details about the electric GT-R, many expect it to use the drivetrain from the Nissan ARIYA. If accurate, this setup would include a dual-motor system producing 389 horsepower, paired with the brand’s e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive technology.

Electrify Expo San Francisco test ride demo Nissan Ariya — _{Test drive of the Nissan ARIYA at Electrify Expo.}

This could allow the car to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, achieve a range of up to 304 miles, and fast-charge 181 miles in 38 minutes, all while maintaining the handling enthusiasts have come to expect.

The reimagined model offers increased output compared to the original R32 Skyline GT-R, which featured all-wheel drive and the famous Nissan RB26DETT inline-six engine, officially rated at 280 horsepower.

Nissan Reimagines the R32 Skyline GT-R as an Electric Icon

The R32’s transition to an electric sports car aligns with the vision behind the Hyper Force concept revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2023. Featuring a 1,300-horsepower electric drivetrain, the concept highlighted Nissan’s ambitions for electric sports cars.

The R32 EV could act as a connection between its nostalgic roots and the Hyper Force’s forward-looking design.

Eric and Amanda Dotson’s Tesla-swapped Skyline GT-R R32, showcased at Electrify Showoff, North America’s ultimate showcase of EV customization and personalization trends within Electrify Expo, demonstrates the potential for electric retrofits to reignite automotive passions.

Eric Dotson explained during the event, “We wanted to preserve the spirit of the GT-R while giving it a future.” This spirit seems to resonate with Nissan’s own project, albeit on a corporate scale.

Eric and Amanda Dotson - 1990 Nissan Skyline GTR R32 - Electrify Showoff Phoenix 2024 - Best EV Conversion and Best Performance awards

Eric and Amanda Dotson - 1990 Nissan Skyline GTR R32 - Electrify Showoff Phoenix 2024 - Tesla Model S P90D dual motor setup with Ludicrous mode

R32 Goes Electric Dividing Purists and Progressives

The decision to make the R32 electric divides opinion. Some purists see replacing the iconic twin-turbo RB26 engine with an electric powertrain as a loss of authenticity. Others view it as a natural step for Nissan, blending the GT-R’s heritage with modern sustainability.

This project reflects careful engineering and a deep respect for what the GT-R represents: a balance of performance, precision, and character.

While the ARIYA-based setup offers modern performance, some enthusiasts may miss the unique experience of the internal combustion engine, in addition to the sounds of the turbos.

Neil Tjin, an automotive aftermarket purist and Director of Electrify Showoff, noted, “Electric drivetrains deliver instant torque, but they can’t replicate the sound of a high-revving RB26,” reflecting his deep appreciation for all things custom.

Eric and Amanda Dotson - 1990 Nissan Skyline GTR R32 - Electrify Showoff Phoenix 2024 - custom trunk setup with JL Audio speakers, amplifier, and subwoofer

Electric GT-R R32 Blends Heritage and Future

This electric GT-R feels like a step in Nissan’s progress rather than an endpoint. With financial challenges adding urgency, projects like the R32 EV and Hyper Force concept focus on building trust while driving interest in their vision for the future.

Could the R32 EV lead to a production electric GT-R? Time will tell. For now, Nissan has created a thoughtful blend of innovation and heritage. The electrified Godzilla honors the past while offering a fresh perspective on what the future of performance cars could look like.