By Nissan, the Japanese automaker known for its iconic GT-R sports car, has set its sights on an electrified future. The company is actively working on developing all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs), a cutting-edge technology that is expected to be a game-changer for electric vehicles. Nissan plans to incorporate ASSBs into a new electric vehicle set to debut by 2028, and this technology is poised to revolutionize the automotive industry by doubling the energy density compared to conventional liquid lithium-ion batteries. This leap in energy density has the potential to significantly reduce charging times, potentially cutting them to a third of current levels.
The electrification journey isn’t limited to standard passenger vehicles for Nissan; the company has ambitious plans to embrace this technology in a wide range of cars, including high-performance models. Among the high-performance models in Nissan’s lineup, the beloved GT-R has been a topic of discussion. In an interview with Top Gear magazine, Ivan Espinosa, Nissan’s global product boss, shed light on the electrification aspirations for the GT-R. Weight is often the enemy of high-performance supercars, and the current battery technology can add considerable weight to the vehicle. However, the improved energy density provided by ASSBs opens up exciting possibilities. With ASSBs, engineers can opt for a smaller battery without compromising performance while retaining the GT-R’s signature 2+2 seating configuration.
An electric GT-R could feature two, three, or even four motors, depending on the development team’s choices, promising thrilling four-wheel drive performance. In this configuration, one motor would drive the front axle, while another would power the rear wheels. Nissan is also contemplating a future Nismo version with a smaller battery to further reduce weight and enhance track performance. Importantly, Nissan envisions keeping the electric GT-R relatively affordable rather than venturing into supercar pricing territory. This commitment to affordability aligns with the brand’s reputation for providing accessible high-performance vehicles, making the GT-R a dream car for a wider audience.
While the transformation of the GT-R into an electric powerhouse is eagerly anticipated, it’s worth noting that the GT-R R35 has faced challenges in certain markets due to aging technology and changing regulations. Nevertheless, Nissan’s electrification ambitions signal an exciting future for the iconic GT-R and the company’s commitment to cutting-edge technology in the automotive world.
