Nissan "digitally remasters" Skyline GT-R with R32EV

Nissan wanted the original Godzilla – the Skyline R32 GT-R, to be reborn with electric power two years ago. Guess what, they have finally done it.

The Japanese manufacturer has unveiled the R32EV at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon. The conversion concept model makes use of the R32 GT-R’s signature body style, but instead of having the RB26DETT and ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, the R32EV highlights Nissan’s expertise in electrification to remaster a 90s icon.

The R32EV is powered by two electric motors (one front, one rear) that produce a combined 435 PS and 680 Nm of torque. The electric swap meant the R32 GT-R now tips the scales at 1797 kg, but Nissan says the power-to-weight ratio has been adjusted to match the original model to reproduce similar driving characteristics.

For stopping power, the stock R32 GT-R brakes were replaced by calipers and rotors taken from the bigger R35 GT-R. Since the brakes are now larger, the original 16-inch wheels can no longer be used so Nissan enlarged the wheels to 18 inches while retaining the original design.

While the original R32 GT-R was a 2+2 coupe, the R32EV is strictly a two-seater inside as the space for rear seats is now occupied by a massive lithium-ion battery taken from the Nissan Leaf NISMO RC_02 race car. The analog gauges and center console have been replaced by screens, but the original displays have been digitally remastered to mimic the same design.

With an emphasis on recreating the R32 GT-R experience for the electric age, Nissan says the R32EV features a pseudo-shift mode with its steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters while the speakers emit the engine sounds the RB26DETT used to make.

Nissan reiterates that the R32EV is not intended for production, but is rather an exercise at preserving the driving pleasure of pure ICEs as automotive technology moves forward