Nissan has built an electric version of its 1980s Skyline GT-R sports car, which was nicknamed Godzilla for its powerful track performance at the time.
The Japanese automaker is set to unveil the R32EV concept model at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon on January 10th. Hundreds of racing and modified vehicles will be showcased, drawing car enthusiasts from around the world.
The original R32 Skyline GT-R was first launched in 1989 and quickly earned the nickname Godzilla, after a fictional Japanese monster, due to its quick rise to dominance on racing tracks.
The 1980s model was the third generation of Nissan’s Skyline GT-R sports car that was first developed in the late 1960s. It was powered by a 2.6L twin-turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive technology, which helped it earn its fearsome reputation.
According to Nissan, a dedicated team of volunteer engineers started working on an electric concept of the car in March 2023. The company has not yet disclosed the conversion’s specifications, but the image it shared shows it featuring an electric socket and retaining a nostalgic 1980s look.
“This initiative aims to capture and recreate the charm of the BNR32 by integrating modern electrification,” Nissan said in a statement.
Nissan will unveil the R32EV alongside several other new models at Tokyo Auto Salon that it said are meant to showcase the evolution of the brand’s technology and customization.
The project follows a trend of transforming classic cars into electric vehicles that has grown in popularity in recent years. Examples include do-it-yourself conversions and official launches such as Ford's F-100 Eluminator.
British luxury carmaker Jaguar also experimented with electrifying its classic cars before a controversial overhaul of the brand earlier this year for a highly futuristic design. Some critics said Jaguar “cybertrucked” its cars, referring to Tesla’s pickup truck.
Meanwhile, the reactions to the Skyline GT-R model’s electric revamp have been mostly positive so far, with commenters praising the car’s classic design.
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