When Nissan Converts Its Legendary Model To Pure EV

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 EV. (Doc. Nissan Global)

JAKARTA - Nissan is one of many automotive manufacturers who are trying to introduce more electric vehicles. However, this manufacturer from the country of Sakura has a unique way of attracting public attention in introducing the technology.

In the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 event which took place on January 10-12, Nissan showcased the legendary model Skyline GT-R R32 which had been converted from a gasoline engine to pure electric drive.

The program is led by experienced Nissan EV powertrain engineer Ryozo Hiraku, who is a fan and former owner of Skyline GT-R R32. He also realized that this design would be controversial.

Hiraku stated that his decision to convert the car nicknamed 'Godzilla' into pure electricity is so that the vehicle can be driven for decades to come.

"I see the benefits of using electricity and digital technology to mimic the appeal of the R32 GT-R so that future generations can feel it," Hikaru said on Nissan's official website, Saturday, January 11.

Seen from the outside, this Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 looks no different when compared to the gasoline version. The car is covered in an iconic metallic Gun Gray color. However, the interesting part is on the heart of the runway.

Nissan removed the RB26DET 2.6 liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine as legendary and replaced it with a 160 kW electric motor and was able to produce a peak torque of up to 340 Nm.

The manufacturer also removed the back seat to accommodate the installation of the 62 kWh battery taken from the NISMO RC02 Leaf model. The battery is able to provide a distance of 364 km when fully charged.

Although the weight will be 370 kg heavier than before, this converted Skyline GT-R R32 has been designed and adjusted the output and torsion to match the original version.