Uncovering the Surprising Isuzu Connection Behind the Iconic R35 Nissan GT-R

The Unexpected Link Between the Nissan GT-R and Isuzu Trucks

The Nissan GT-R and the Isuzu NPR truck may seem like vastly different entities, with the former being a high-performance supercar and the latter being a workhorse commercial vehicle. However, despite their vastly different profiles, the two have a fascinating connection.

It’s no secret that the Nissan GT-R was designed and developed by a team of skilled engineers. But what’s often overlooked is that the majority of those engineers didn’t come from a traditional supercar background. Instead, many of them had roots in the truck division at Isuzu. According to Kazutoshi Mizuno, the former chief engineer of the GT-R, this decision was intentional. "They started out in the truck division, not in the car division, so they were practically novices when it came to developing supercars," he wrote. "However, through strong teamwork, a strong determination to achieve their goals, and training and practice based on the results of the comprehensive vehicle measurement system, the team members were transformed into world-class engineers in about 1.5 years."

But what drove this unconventional approach? Was there a shortage of engineers within Nissan’s ranks? The answers remain unclear. What we do know, however, is that the resulting collaboration led to some truly impressive innovations. The GT-R was widely praised for its handling and quick-shifting gearbox, both of which continue to impress even to this day.

The GT-R’s success was largely thanks to the input from Isuzu engineers, who brought a unique set of skills to the table. This unexpected pairing highlights the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential for innovative breakthroughs when combining different perspectives.

So, what does the future hold for the GT-R? Will we see an electric powertrain or perhaps a hybrid system in the works? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the R35-generation GT-R, with its remarkable history, continues to inspire and intrigue car enthusiasts worldwide.

Here are some interesting facts about the GT-R’s development process:

• Unconventional team:
The GT-R’s development team consisted mostly of engineers from the truck division at Isuzu.

• Innovative thinking:
The team brought a fresh perspective to the development process, applying concepts from commercial vehicle engineering to a high-performance sports car.

• World-class engineers:
The Isuzu engineers who worked on the GT-R transformed themselves into world-class engineers within just 1.5 years, thanks to a combination of teamwork, determination, and training.

• Legendary handling:
The GT-R was widely praised for its handling and quick-shifting gearbox, both of which continue to impress even to this day.

• Innovative manufacturing process:
The GT-R’s development team also employed an innovative manufacturing process, with parts being assembled in a hermetically sealed lab.

• R35’s famous transmission:
The GT-R’s transmission is often credited as one of its standout features, providing seamless and precise shifts.