In a market seemingly dominated by SUVs and trucks, Japan is quietly preparing to unleash a new era of sports cars, set to make waves on American shores. A closer look at the Japanese automotive landscape reveals a fascinating trend: nearly every major carmaker is either in the process of launching or planning to launch a new sports car in the near future. What’s particularly intriguing is that many of these new models will be powered by fully electric drivetrains, marking a significant shift in the industry’s focus.
Among the exciting lineup of upcoming sports cars, two models stand out as the flag bearers of this new wave: the next-generation Nissan GT-R and the Honda NSX. While details are still scarce, reports suggest that both iconic supercars will transition to fully electric powertrains by around 2028. This move aligns with the anticipated arrival of All Solid State batteries (ASSB), which are expected to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) market with their potential for higher energy densities, shorter charging times, and lower costs compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
While Nissan has not officially confirmed the new GT-R’s specifications, the company’s recent unveiling of the Hyper Force concept at the Japan Mobility Show hints at the car’s capabilities. With a jaw-dropping 1340 horsepower and a revised version of Nissan’s acclaimed Atessa 4WD system, the next GT-R promises to be a formidable contender in the electric sports car segment. The design language of the new GT-R is a blend of the current R35 GT-R’s proportions with more aggressive and futuristic elements, giving it a distinct and powerful presence.
Honda, through its luxury division Acura, is also gearing up for the electric revolution with a new version of its NSX supercar. Like its Nissan counterpart, the electric NSX is expected to feature ASSB technology, providing it with over 1,000 horsepower, all-wheel drive (AWD), and an extended range. Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, has confirmed the company’s focus on developing sports cars for the EV era, with a prototype already in the works.
In conclusion, the future of sports cars is electrifying, with Nissan and Honda leading the charge. The transition to fully electric powertrains promises to not only redefine the performance capabilities of these iconic models but also to pave the way for a new era of sustainable and high-performance vehicles. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments in the world of Japanese supercars.
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