Alright, car enthusiasts, get ready for a ride like no other because Nissan is taking the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon by storm! The event, running from January 10 through 12 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, is one of the biggest car shows in the world—think of it as Japan’s answer to SEMA. And this year, Nissan is coming in hot with an incredible lineup of cars and concepts, headlined by their boldest move yet: the electrification of the iconic R32 GT-R.

Under the leadership of Nissan EV powertrain engineer (and former R32 Skyline owner) Ryozo Hiraku, a dedicated team of volunteer engineers has been working on this all-electric R32 Skyline GT-R for over a year. This passion project features bespoke parts that’ll make any enthusiast drool, including genuine R32 GT-R wheels upsized to 18 inches and sleek carbon Recaro seats. It’s not just a car—it’s a love letter to Nissan’s heritage, with a bold step into the EV future.

What’s even more exciting is the context surrounding this reveal. Nissan, which recently finalized its mega-merger with Honda, has been hard at work redefining its brand identity while continuing to push boundaries in innovation. The merger has added more muscle to their engineering efforts, and the R32 EV is proof of that. Alongside this iconic conversion, Nissan is pulling out all the stops with a stunning lineup of models, blending performance, practicality, and a glimpse into the future of mobility.

Early feedback on the R32 GT-R EV was, let’s say, a little harsh. Critics weren’t thrilled about electrifying such a beloved icon. But now that we’ve gotten a closer look at what’s under the hood (or battery pack), the industry is paying attention. With bespoke engineering and a fresh take on a classic, this EV experiment might win over skeptics.

And the R32 EV is only the beginning. Nissan’s arsenal includes the sporty Fairlady Z, the beastly GT-R NISMO Special Edition, and the cutting-edge Ariya NISMO EV. For adventure lovers, concepts like the X-Trail Unwind and Remastered are ready to take you off-road in style. At the same time, disaster support vehicles and sporty family rides like the Aura AUTECH and Serena AUTECH Sports Specs show Nissan’s versatility.

When Nissan announced the R32 GT-R EV, the internet lit up with questions—and plenty of skepticism. How do you electrify a car as iconic as Godzilla without losing its soul? The R32 GT-R is a cultural symbol, beloved for its raw power, turbo growl, and mechanical precision. Swapping out the legendary RB26DETT engine for an electric motor seemed almost sacrilegious to purists.

But Nissan’s approach with the R32 EV is different—it’s a love letter to the original, designed to preserve its legacy for future generations. Unlike the futuristic (and polarizing) 1,000kW Hyper Force Concept, the R32 EV leans into nostalgia and passion. “I wondered if 30 years from now—2055 or beyond—owners of this incredible machine could still buy gasoline and enjoy driving it,” said Ryozo Hiraku, the project lead. “I saw merit in using electrical and digital technology to replicate the appeal of the R32 GT-R.”

EVs are still a tough pill for enthusiasts. Still, Nissan has done it thoughtfully, drawing inspiration from the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and tapping legendary test driver Hiroyoshi Kato to refine the driving experience. With bespoke 18-inch wheels, carbon Recaro seats, and an eye on performance, this isn’t just a retrofit—it’s a new beast.

Nissan’s goal with the R32 GT-R EV wasn’t to exceed the original 2.6-litre twin-turbo engine’s power but to match it. The team installed two 160kW electric motors with 340 Nm of torque and swapped the rear seats for a 62kWh battery from the LEAF NISMO RC02. The EV is still fine-tuned, but engineers have focused on keeping the torque-to-weight ratio in line with the original R32’s 280 PS (206 kW) and 353 Nm of torque.

Despite being about 370 kg heavier due to the battery and electric components, Nissan worked hard to maintain the R32’s legendary driving dynamics. The R32 EV stays true to the original’s focus on driving engagement rather than just power.

Nissan’s ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which debuted 35 years ago, has evolved in the R32 EV. With dual electric motors and advanced sensors, the torque distribution is faster and more precise, enhancing handling and stability.

The R32 EV uses a NISMO Sports suspension kit with Öhlins dampers to counteract the extra weight while ensuring responsive handling. Unlike most EVs, which are whisper-quiet, the R32 EV replicates the RB26DETT engine sound through cabin speakers. Paddle shifters simulate the experience of manual gear changes, even adding “shift shock” for extra immersion.

Upgraded brakes from the R35 GT-R, including larger rotors and monoblock callipers, ensure top-notch stopping power. The custom 18-inch wheels, inspired by the original R32 GT-R’s 16-inch alloys, accommodate the new braking system.

Alongside the highly anticipated R32 GT-R EV, Nissan unveiled several new products at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025. One standout is the Nissan GT-R NISMO Special Edition, the highest-performance model in GT-R history. This new edition surpasses limited-edition variants like the T-Spec. Incorporating racing technology, the Special Edition has high-precision, weight-balanced engine components, including piston rings, conrods, and crankshafts.

To top it off, a NISMO-exclusive carbon fibre bonnet with a clear coating and a NACA duct enhances the car’s front-end aesthetics. It’s still unclear what markets this car will be available in or its pricing, but it will turn heads wherever it goes.

Here’s a complete list unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025: