For Nissan enthusiasts, this is the kind of update worth paying attention to. According to reporting from Motor1 during a visit to Nissan’s headquarters in Yokohama, the next-generation R36 GT-R is not going fully electric, which should come as welcome news to anyone worried that Godzilla might lose the character that made it a legend in the first place. Nissan has made it clear that the GT-R’s future still matters, and just as importantly, the company seems to understand that this car cannot afford to get its formula wrong.
That does not mean the next GT-R will ignore the realities of the modern auto industry. As Motor1 reported, Nissan product strategy boss Richard Candler made it clear that some level of electrification is essentially unavoidable, which points the R36 toward a hybrid setup rather than a battery-electric one. Honestly, that sounds like the right move. The GT-R has always been about delivering brutal performance with real-world usability, and a well-executed hybrid system could help Nissan improve response, efficiency, and emissions without sacrificing the muscle and attitude people expect from the nameplate.
What is especially encouraging is the reasoning behind the decision. Nissan reportedly does not believe today’s battery technology is ready to deliver the kind of performance expected from a proper GT-R, particularly in a package that meets the demands of enthusiasts and the brand’s own standards. That is a far more sensible approach than forcing the car into a fully electric identity just to chase a headline. For a vehicle with this much heritage, preserving the experience matters every bit as much as advancing the technology underneath it.
At this point, there are still plenty of unanswered questions about what the final R36 formula will look like, but the early signs are promising. If Nissan can blend hybrid assistance with the kind of power, grip, and everyday supercar capability that defined the R35, the next GT-R could strike a very smart balance between tradition and progress. For now, the biggest takeaway is simple. The GT-R is coming back, and thanks to what Motor1 learned firsthand, we now know it will not be losing its soul to a full EV transition.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
