# The Future of the Nissan GT-R: What Lies Ahead for the Iconic Supercar


## Nissan GT-R: A Legacy in Limbo

The Nissan GT-R, specifically the R35 model, has been a staple in the supercar market for over 17 years. As it approaches the end of its production run, Nissan executives are candid about the challenges ahead. Pierre Loing, Nissan’s global product chief, has shed light on the brand’s plans and the hurdles that come with transitioning to a new generation of this iconic vehicle.

## Regulatory Challenges and the Future of the GT-R

Loing has acknowledged that while the GT-R remains available for now, regulatory issues are a significant barrier to its continued production. “It’s still on sale – for the moment. It’s been on sale for 17 years, and we’d love to make it another 17 years, but the regulator gives us some trouble!” he stated in an interview with *Top Gear*. This sentiment resonates with many enthusiasts who would prefer to see the GT-R continue, albeit in its current form, rather than disappear entirely.

## The R36 GT-R: What to Expect

As the automotive world shifts towards electrification, Nissan is contemplating the next iteration of the GT-R, tentatively labeled the R36. Loing hinted that a replacement could be on the horizon by 2028, with solid-state battery technology playing a crucial role in its development. “We are currently on time for this. I think it will work and solid-state technology solves a lot of the problems of EV batteries such as density, heat, etc.,” he explained.

## Bridging the Gap: Historical Context

Nissan has a history of gaps between GT-R models. For instance, after the R34 Skyline GT-R ended production in 2002, the R35 didn’t make its debut until 2007. Loing noted, “The gap between the ‘Kenmeri’ Skyline GT-R ending in 1975 and the R32 starting in 1989 was even larger. The GT-R is strong enough to live with these gaps in its production.” This historical perspective suggests that while there may be a wait for the R36, the legacy of the GT-R will endure.

## The Electrification Debate

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) poses a unique challenge for the GT-R brand. Loing emphasized that Nissan is still navigating what a GT-R should embody in an electrified era. “We are in the middle of all those debates,” he remarked. The recent unveiling of the Nissan Hyper Force concept hinted at the brand’s direction, but it remains unclear whether the next GT-R will fully embrace an electric powertrain.

## Solid-State Batteries: The Game Changer?

Nissan is optimistic about the potential of solid-state batteries, which promise to address many of the current limitations of lithium-ion technology. Loing stated, “Every step is a breakthrough over what we can currently do with lithium-ion batteries.” The company aims to have a prototype solid-state battery ready by spring 2025, with plans for a prototype vehicle to follow two years later.

## Conclusion: A Wait Worth Enduring

As the automotive landscape evolves, the future of the Nissan GT-R remains uncertain but hopeful. With the R35 nearing its end and the R36 on the horizon, enthusiasts are left to ponder what the next chapter will hold. While the transition to electrification presents challenges, Nissan’s commitment to innovation and performance suggests that the GT-R legacy will continue to thrive, albeit in a new form.

Stay tuned as we follow Nissan’s journey into the electrified future of the GT-R.