Revealing Nissan's Revolutionary R32 EV Conversion at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon
What occurs when you combine a small team of dedicated engineers, Nissan's iconic performance car, and advanced EV technology?
Although traditional car enthusiasts might be inclined toward "controversy," Nissan provided a compelling answer with its unique R32 EV conversion at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.
This initiative, born from the passion of a few adventurous Nissan engineers in Japan, investigates whether electrification can deliver a driving experience as exhilarating as that of the renowned R32 GT-R.
Spearheading the project, Ryozo Hiraku, an experienced Nissan EV powertrain engineer and enthusiast of the R32 GT-R, undertook the challenge to electrify a car he revered, ensuring it remains exhilarating for future generations.
Hiraku stated, "In 30 years, will the enthusiasts of this magnificent vehicle still have access to petrol? Or will they turn to electric and digital technology to preserve the charm of the R32 GT-R?" This project seeks to address such questions and pave the way for future EV advancements.
Externally, the R32 EV appears almost identical to the original R32 GT-R, finished in Gun Grey metallic. The engineering team installed twin 160kW electric motors, each producing up to 340 Nm of torque, and a 62kWh battery from the LEAF NISMO RC02 in place of the rear seat.
The project's goal is not to exceed but to match the performance of the original GT-R. The torque-to-weight ratio will remain the same despite the EV's additional 370 kg from the battery pack and electrical components.
Like the original R32 GT-R, the project focuses on creating a genuine driver's car, emphasising dynamic capability over outright power. The modern all-wheel-drive system, which replaces the ATTESA E-TS system, allows for faster and more precise torque distribution.
To compensate for the added weight, the vehicle features a NISMO Sports suspension kit with Öhlins dampers, ensuring optimal handling and minimal body roll.
In contrast to most silent EVs today, the R32 EV seeks to recreate the sensory engagement of the R32 GT-R. It includes paddle shift functionality and cabin speakers that emit sounds inspired by the original RB26DETT engine.
The team has programmed the paddle shift logic to simulate the brief jolt a driver feels when shifting gears through a traditional gearbox, mimicking the sensation of manual gear changes.
Interior enhancements include bespoke Recaro seats and digital upgrades to the audio system, gauges, and meter cluster, which preserve the car's classic appearance while improving driver interaction.
Nissan master test driver Hiroyoshi Kato, who played a key role in refining the original R32 GT-R, tested the R32 EV and provided essential feedback to perfect this extraordinary transformation.
While there are no plans to commercialise the R32 EV or release it as a conversion kit, the knowledge gained from this project is invaluable, inspiring further innovations and demonstrating the possibilities when tradition meets modern technology.
