Summary
– Nissan has confirmed it is discontinuing the GT-R model and hints at a potential return as an electric vehicle
– The Hyper Force Concept was unveiled in 2023, suggesting a future electric GT-R
– The concept has a combined output of 1,341 horsepower and utilizes solid-state battery technology for lightweight design
– Nissan is aiming to launch a production-ready GT-R EV with solid-state batteries by 2030
– The next GT-R model may feature some form of electrification, potentially as a mild hybrid, but details are still uncertain.
Article
Nissan has decided to discontinue the GT-R, the R35, a car that has been in production since 2007. This decision leaves a significant gap in the Nissan lineup and in the hearts of enthusiasts who have come to love the performance and capabilities of the GT-R. However, Nissan seems to have a plan to revive the GT-R nameplate by potentially introducing an electric version of the vehicle. While Nissan has not officially confirmed the development of an electric R36 GT-R, hints suggest that a futuristic electric GT-R concept called the Hyper Force may give a preview of what is to come. This concept was revealed in 2023 at the Tokyo Motor Show and showcased an all-electric high-performance supercar that aimed to deliver driving pleasure and environmental performance.
The Hyper Force concept shares similarities with the traditional GT-R design but features futuristic elements and massive aero elements. Despite its resemblance to a GT-R, Nissan chose to hide its true identity by giving it a different name and logo. The concept boasts of two driving modes, “GT” and “R,” each offering a distinct driving experience. Nissan’s program design director hinted at the possibility of an electric GT-R by the end of the decade, suggesting that the development of a production electric GT-R may be in progress, possibly launching by 2030. The concept is said to have a combined output of 1,000 kilowatts, more than double the horsepower of the current gas-burning GT-R, making it a competitive option in the world of high-performance sports cars.
To ensure the Hyper Force concept maintains the performance standards set by the GT-R lineage, Nissan focused on keeping the car lightweight. The concept features a lightweight body with high-strength carbon materials, contributing to its handling capabilities. Nissan envisions the concept as using a solid-state battery, which offers advantages in energy density, charging performance, and weight compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The manufacturer is conducting advanced research on solid-state batteries and aims to have a production-ready pack available for its upcoming EV models by 2030. The adoption of solid-state battery technology in the automotive industry has been hindered by cost, but Nissan plans to address this challenge before introducing the technology into its vehicles.
While Nissan has not officially confirmed the development of an electric GT-R, the potential for an electric future for the model remains on the table. Reports have suggested that the next GT-R may feature some form of electrification, possibly as a mild hybrid, while other sources hint at a fully electric variant. Nissan has expressed its commitment to maintaining the driving experience and performance that enthusiasts have come to expect from the GT-R, whether through a gasoline-powered model or an electric version. The decision to discontinue the current GT-R and potentially introduce an electric successor reflects Nissan’s efforts to adapt to changing market trends and regulations while preserving the heritage and appeal of the iconic GT-R brand.
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