Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 Evolves with EV: A fusion of tradition and innovation – Nissan’s roadmap to the future

Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 was held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture from January 10th to 12th, 2025. While numerous custom cars and concept cars attracted attention, one vehicle that stood out at Nissan’s booth was the R32EV, an electric version of the legendary R32 Skyline GT-R.

Features of the Nissan R32EV

The legendary GT-R (R32EV) brought to life by electrification technology

Nissan is an automobile manufacturer that has built a history of sports cars with models like the GT-R and Fairlady Z. The R32EV project was announced as an initiative that respects the company’s heritage while looking to the future. By combining the latest electrification technology with a classic car, Nissan has breathed new life into the timeless and beloved R32 Skyline GT-R.

This project is not limited to simply converting the car to EV. It is driven by the passionate desire of Nissan engineers to “combine the car they love most with the technology they believe is the best today, and create a car that will excite people all over the world.” They are taking on this project with the hope that people 30 and 100 years from now will also be able to experience the joy of driving the R32 GT-R.

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 EV specs

The R32EV faithfully reproduces the original design, so much so that at first glance it could be mistaken for a fully stock R32 GT-R. However, what lies beneath is the culmination of the latest technology. The rear seats have been removed to accommodate the battery from the Leaf NISMO RC_02, making it a two-seater vehicle. The powertrain replaces the RB26DETT engine with a twin-motor 4WD system. Boasting astounding specs of a maximum output of 160kW and a maximum torque of 340Nm per motor, it has the potential to surpass the acceleration of the RB26DETT.

The R32EV’s weight has increased as a result of the EV conversion, so it is fitted with brake calipers and rotors from the R35 GT-R, and the wheels have been increased to 18 inches. Of course, since there is no engine, there is no muffler either. These changes are in place to accommodate the increased weight due to the EV conversion and to maintain the original driving performance of the R32 GT-R.

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 EV interior

The interior is also filled with Nissan’s attention to detail. The Recaro bucket seats have an upholstery color that matches the factory seats, and the LCD display meter also features a factory-style design. The area around the shift lever also reproduces the shift knob and boot from the R32 GT-R, preserving as much of the atmosphere of the time as possible. In addition, the car is equipped with a dedicated sound system that plays the engine sound of the RB26DETT through the speakers. It even reproduces the idling sound, revving sounds, and the changes in engine sound when shifting gears, making it a must-have for R32 GT-R fans.

A word from the editorial department

The R32EV was exhibited at the Nissan booth at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, attracting the attention of many visitors. Through this project, Nissan has not only revived the appeal of a classic car from the past, but also demonstrated the new possibilities that can come from converting it to an EV. The R32EV is not just an EV conversion model; it is a challenge to the future that brings together Nissan’s technological capabilities and passion.

This project has the potential to be applied not only to the R32 Skyline GT-R, but also to other classic cars. Through its EV conversion projects, Nissan will continue to connect its past heritage to the future and convey the joy of cars to future generations.

Nissan’s R32EV project not only accelerates the trend toward EVs in the automotive industry, but also plays an important role in passing on automotive culture. It is not simply a matter of powering a car from the past with electricity, but an ambitious attempt to pass on the soul, charm, and passion of the people involved in its development to the future.