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Nissan’s Upcoming GT-R: A Hybrid Transformation

Nissan is setting the stage for the next generation of its iconic GT-R, anticipated to debut by the end of the decade. Unlike its predecessor, the R35, which has served well over the years, the forthcoming R36 will incorporate a plug-in hybrid powertrain rather than moving exclusively to electric power. This was confirmed by Ponz Pandikuthira, Nissan’s chief planning officer, in an interview with The Drive.

While it appears that Nissan is progressing with the GT-R development internally, there are indications that the company might consider a partnership with Honda for shared platform technology, potentially aligning with a new Acura NSX. This collaborative approach was also discussed by Pandikuthira, who hinted at various speculative features for the new GT-R, including the possibility of utilizing the 2025 Nissan Armada’s twin-turbo V6 engine. According to him, the vehicle may be capable of traveling roughly 70 miles on electric power for local commuting needs.

Pandikuthira has also mentioned the company’s efforts in creating electric prototypes of the GT-R. However, he raises concerns about the performance constraints of an entirely electric model, suggesting that it might only manage to complete one lap at the Nürburgring before requiring a recharge. This assertion resonates with previous remarks made during a 2024 interview with Motor Authority, where he indicated that the final powertrain choice had yet to be confirmed. Comparatively, other electric vehicles, such as the Tesla Model S Plaid, have demonstrated the capacity to finish multiple laps on a single charge, showcasing a benchmarking challenge for Nissan’s approach.

In discussing the future of battery technology, Pandikuthira noted that the currently developing solid-state batteries may not be suitable for the R36 GT-R. He opined that while these batteries could fit smaller, everyday electric vehicles meant for leisurely driving, they may not meet the stringent demands of a high-performance GT-R model. “The ultimate raw performance GT-R as an electric car, that’s really quite a ways away,” he remarked to The Drive.

As highlighted by Jalopnik, hitting a target launch by 2030 could prove challenging, particularly if collaborations with Honda slow the timeline. This uncertainty brings to light whether Pandikuthira’s insights on the GT-R’s direction are reflections of an ambitious vision or based on tangible progress already made behind the scenes.

Source
www.theverge.com