Nissan creates GT-R Drone: 0-62 mph in just 1.3 seconds

(June 24, 2016) GOODWOOD, UK — Nissan today unveiled the GT-R Drone — one of the fastest accelerating FPV (First Person View) racing drones in the world. Built to be able to keep up with the new 2017 Nissan GT-R while filming on the track, the drone features the very latest in performance-enhancing technology, just like its automotive equivalent.

Custom designed by World Drone Prix Champions, Tornado XBlades Racing, the GT-R Drone uses a special race tuned configuration and low-drag canopy to reach 100kph (62 mph) from a standstill in just 1.3 seconds.

To show off the talents of both machines, the GT-R Drone took on the road-going supercar around the challenging Silverstone circuit.

Both machines use incredible technology and engineering to extract the maximum performance, both in a straight line and through corners. The GT-R car transfers power from its twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter 24-valve V6 to all four wheels; the GT-R Drone delivers incredible acceleration via four propellers mated with 2000kV XNova motors and race specification Sky-Hero quadcopter frame.



The race saw Nissan NISMO driver Ricardo Sanchez take the wheel of the new GT-R with James Bowles, the 2015 British National Drone Racing champion, piloting the GT-R Drone around a purpose-built 1.2-mile course at Silverstone.

The new 2017 GT-R represents the most significant changes to the car since the R35 model was first introduced in 2007. Unlike the drone, the GT-R features new aerodynamic features, which are designed to keep it firmly on the ground.

While the drone can out accelerate the car, wheels soon catch up with rotors: The GT-R Drone has a top speed of approximately 185kph, versus 315kph for the European model car.

Even the incredible four-wheel-drive system of the GT-R can't match the ultimate agility of the drone, which is has a turning circle of just 0.3 meters. Its custom setup allows it to perform heart-stopping maneuvers with incredible precision and agility.

Both machines will also be on display at Goodwood Festival of Speed this week.