Nissan Celebrates the Arrival of the Electric Micra with a Thermo Restomod!

Some manufacturers are more hesitant than others to commit fully to electric vehicles, but Nissan was not one of them.

As Nissan prepares to launch its brand new 100% electric Micra, inspired by the Renault 5, a question arises: should this event have been celebrated by spotlighting a combustion model? That is indeed what the Japanese automaker’s British branch chose to do by resurrecting the Micra 350SR, a modified K12 from 2002, for its 23rd anniversary.

This decision seems contradictory to the brand’s electrification strategy. While the nod to Micra’s tradition and heritage is appreciated, a project more aligned with Nissan’s electric future might have been more relevant.

That said, it’s hard to deny the visual impact of this restoration. The Micra 350SR, famous for its 300-horsepower V6 engine at the center, returns with a refreshed bodywork designed by Nissan Design Europe based in Paddington. Its new “satin liquid silver” paint is highlighted with blue accents, inspired by the taillights of the 300ZX, another icon of the brand. The RAYS wheels from the 350Z have been preserved, while modern LED headlights reinforce the connection to the upcoming Micra EV.

Driving sports, according to Nissan

The interior has also evolved, featuring a 9-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the main goal of this restoration does not seem to be offering a digital experience, but rather reaffirming Nissan’s sporting heritage.

Despite these efforts, the juxtaposition between the ultra-powerful combustion Micra and the new electric version raises questions. The initiative clearly demonstrates Nissan’s attachment to its history, but could it have better reflected the brand’s sustainable ambitions? An electric Restomod, for instance, could have been a clever way to reconcile the past and the future.

Ultimately, while this project will delight enthusiasts of the 350SR, it could also be seen as a missed opportunity to fully celebrate the arrival of the Micra EV with boldness and modernity.

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