Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida has revealed the company is looking at a new platform and potential electrification for the next-generation ‘R36’ GT-R.
“We are looking at how we can do it electrified,” Uchida told Autocar.
At this stage it’s still uncertain how electrified the next-generation GT-R will be, with Uchida saying it can still become the “fastest super-sports car in the world” without a hybrid system.
GT-R50 by ItalDesign
“Whether we go to a lot of electrification or none at all, we can achieve a lot power-wise,” said Uchida.
“But we’re definitely making a new platform, and our goal is clear: the GT-R has to be the quickest car of its kind. It has to own the track. And it has to play the advanced technology game. But that doesn’t mean it has to be electric.”
The current-generation Nissan GT-R was recently axed from Australian showrooms due to it not complying with the now-compulsory ADR 85 side-impact regulations.
Nissan Australia went out on a high though with the GT-R by revealing two special editions, the GT-R T-Spec and GT-R Nismo SV.
GT-R T-Spec
The T-Spec offered a range of aesthetic and performance tweaks with gold forged 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres, carbon ceramic brake rotors, carbon-fibre spoiler, dark green interior accents, a quilted Alcantara headliner and suede A-pillar trim.
The Nismo on the other hand gained a clear-coated carbon-fibre bonnet, red exterior accents, and 20-inch Rays aluminium forged wheels.
Despite its age, the GT-R will continue to be offered in other markets.
Uchida’s plan for the next-generation appears to be clear, with it being further differentiated from the new Nissan Z sports car.
Nissan Z Proto Spec
“The Z is for someone like me who enjoys sports cars,” said Uchida.
“The GT-R is a professional machine and we need to work it out for the future.”
The 2023 Nissan Z is confirmed for Australia and is expected to make its way Down Under from the middle of 2022.
Built on revised bones of outgoing 370Z, it’s powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 pushing out 298kW of power and 475Nm of torque.
Australian-spec Z models will be available with either a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission and will have mechanical limited-slip differentials and launch control as standard.
Nissan Z
There will be a single trim level available once it goes on sale, with a limited-edition Z Proto Spec flagship.
An undisclosed number of Z Proto Spec models will come here and add unique features such as bespoke 19-inch bronze forged alloy wheels, yellow brake calipers and interior accents, as well as the availability of an ‘Ikazuchi Yellow’ body colour with ‘Super Black’ roof.
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