Nissan’s Nismo division is gearing up for a seismic shift in Europe’s high-performance landscape. With tighter emissions regulations forcing many a petrolhead to shed a tear, Nissan is ready to turn the tables by electrifying its lineup—and the iconic GT-R could be leading the charge.

Europe’s streets are set to feel the roar of Nismo once again, with a revitalized range of high-octane models on the horizon. The Japanese brand has confirmed that the Ariya Nismo will hit European shores early next year, bringing some much-needed firepower to the electric SUV market. It’s the first Nismo-badged vehicle in the region since the beloved GT-R was pulled from the lineup, a casualty of ever-stringent emissions laws.

But here’s where it gets interesting: Nissan’s global product strategy chief, Ivan Espinosa, has hinted that electrification could be the key to unlocking the return of some of the brand’s most exciting models. The Z sports car, for example, has been a no-show in the UK, hampered by emissions standards. But with electrification, the Z and others could soon be prowling British roads.

“The future of our high-performance vehicles is undoubtedly electrified,” Espinosa told Autocar. “This shift isn’t just about keeping pace with regulations—it’s also about staying true to our brand’s DNA. We’re heading into uncharted territory, and it’s incredibly exciting.”

Espinosa also teased the possibility of Nismo versions of some of Nissan’s most beloved nameplates. “Nismo isn’t just about raw power; it’s about bringing that power to more people, making high performance more accessible.”

And while the future of the GT-R may look different from its turbocharged predecessors, Nissan hasn’t forgotten its roots. Last year, the company unveiled the jaw-dropping Hyper Force concept—a tantalizing glimpse of what an electrified GT-R could look like. And yes, Espinosa hinted that a production version could make its way to the UK, where a loyal fanbase eagerly awaits its return.

“The UK has a rich history of car enthusiasts, and we’re committed to bringing back the thrill of Nissan sports cars,” Espinosa added.

As for what’s next in line for the Nismo treatment? The Ariya Nismo is just the beginning. While Espinosa remained tight-lipped about specific models, he promised that any future Nismo electrics would be performance-driven, staying true to the division’s legacy. The electric future of Nismo is here, and it’s going to be one wild ride.