After a prolonged teaser campaign, Nissan has finally unveiled the result of a controversial project to reimagine the R32 GT-R with electric power. Using a 62kWh battery from the Leaf RC concept and twin 215bhp electric motors, the team has focused on recreating the distinctive driving sensations that made the R32 legendary, rather than pursuing Tesla-baiting power figures.

The engineering team behind the car is led by Ryozo Hiraku, whose distinctly Japanese job title – Expert Leader of Powertrain Systems for Nissan – underscores his authority. Most recently, Hiraku worked on the e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system for the Ariya and X-Trail SUVs. As a former R32 owner, however, he approached this project with a personal mission: to replicate the original GT-R’s defining characteristics using electric power.

The project began with disassembling and 3D-scanning the donor car, followed by the removal of its RB26 2.6-litre straight-six engine and running gear. With the new electric powertrain installed, the car's weight has increased by 367kg, bringing the total to 1,797kg. It now features NISMO suspension with Öhlins dampers, tuned to minimise roll despite the added mass.

The combined output of the twin electric motors stands at 430bhp and 680Nm, but the powertrain has been tuned to “not exceed but rather match” the performance of the original R32 GT-R, retaining the same 181lb-ft/tonne torque-to-weight ratio as the 1989 model.

The R32 Skyline GT-R famously introduced the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which used a hydraulically actuated clutch to manage torque distribution. This system has been faithfully reimagined in the R32 EV, where the electric motors provide quicker response times and more precise torque vectoring. While the distinctive straight-six soundtrack is absent, cabin speakers can play synthesised engine noises inspired by the 2.6-litre unit that once resided under the bonnet.

In terms of appearance, it’s a case of spot-the-difference with the R32 EV. Among the minimal exterior changes are the wheels and brakes, with larger discs and callipers borrowed from the current R35 GT-R. The wheel size has been increased to 18 inches to accommodate them, and the 5-spoke design echoes the original alloys fitted to the R32 model. The lower rear bumper has been reprofiled to eliminate the need for an exhaust pipe, while a charging socket now resides behind the fuel filler flap. Otherwise, the R32 EV retains its Gun Grey metallic paint, halogen headlights, and unapologetically 1990s styling, just as it did when it left the factory.

Inside, the updates are more noticeable, with bespoke RECARO bucket seats and digital displays that replicate the original gauge designs. Paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel are designed to mimic the sensation of shifting gears – potentially similar to the system used in the Hyundai Ioniq 5N.

While the R32 EV appears to be a finished product, it remains a work in progress as engineers continue to refine the drivetrain, ensuring it serves as a faithful electric tribute to the petrol-powered GT-R. Led by a former R32 owner and with development drives conducted by Nissan’s master test driver, Hiroyoshi Kato, the R32 EV is clearly as much a labour of love as it is an engineering endeavour. Although Nissan has confirmed it will not offer electric conversion kits for the R32, the company promises there is more to come from the project.