Nissan Promises GT-R and Z Models Aren’t Going Anywhere

Enthusiasts shouldn’t mourn the Nissan Z and GT-R just yet! At the 2024 New York Auto Show, Nissan assured popular publication Motor Authority that these legendary nameplates are here to stay, albeit with a possible electric twist in the coming future. Now that discontinuation fears can officially dissipate, Nissan’s sportiest nameplates will live on for another generation.

Nissan GT-R Reimagined: How Formula E Could Shape its Future

After dominating the streets for 16 years, Nissan’s iconic R35 GT-R is nearing the end of its production line. The legendary car will be sent off with a bang, though, as Nissan confirmed a special edition duo to mark the occasion.

“The next generation of the GT-R has to be an authentic GT-R,” Pandikuthira said.

Nissan isn’t about to sacrifice the GT-R’s legendary performance on the altar of electrification. As a company executive, Pandikuthira stressed the car’s roots: born, bred, and tested on the racetrack. A true GT-R, he argues, wouldn’t be one if it could only manage a single blistering lap around the Nürburgring before needing to recharge and cool down. Electrifying the GT-R will require overcoming this hurdle – maintaining its ability to deliver sustained, race-like performance.

Nissan’s engineers are waiting for battery technology to catch up to the GT-R’s performance needs before electrifying it. While the next-gen powertrain remains undecided, Pandikuthira confirmed Formula E serves as a testing ground for future GT-R development. He acknowledges today’s electric vehicle batteries are heavy, a critical concern for a performance car. Interestingly, Pandikuthira highlights Nissan’s success in Formula E, where they recently built and designed the winning car for McLaren – a testament to their electric racing expertise. Additionally, Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida previously confirmed the next GT-R will utilize a new platform, hinting at significant advancements.

Retrofuturism in store for the Nissan Z?

The current-generation Nissan Z, launched in 2021, is still basking in the spotlight of its debut. According to Nissan executive  Pandikuthira, the current Nissan Z has a long runway ahead, with its powertrain adhering to emissions regulations for its entire lifespan. Only then will Nissan turn its attention to a new generation. Interestingly, the current Z’s existence was a bit of a surprise, emerging from a secret “skunkworks” project. Nissan design chief Alfonso Albaisa reflects on the Z’s design evolution. He acknowledges the 350Z’s (2003) bold departure from tradition and the 370Z’s (2009) continuation of that progressive style. The current Z, however, takes a nostalgic turn, drawing inspiration from the iconic 240Z and Z32 300ZX.

Looking ahead, Albaisa sets a clear path for the next Z. It will either be a complete reimagining of the 240Z, or a radical break from tradition, embracing a completely new, progressive design. There will be no middle ground, promises Albaisa. This intriguing statement leaves enthusiasts wondering – will the next Z harken back to its roots or hurtle towards an unforeseen future?

Explore More at Vision Nissan of Canandaigua

If you are interested in learning more about Nissan’s latest lineup, please visit us at Vision Nissan of Canandaigua. We would be honored to become your dealership home. After all, we are all about making car shopping a pleasant experience for our customers. If you are looking for a new option to buy or lease, then take a look at our new vehicle inventory or our excellent pre-owned vehicles.

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