Nissan is preparing to showcase a trio of innovative “Frankenstein” cars at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, all created by talented students at the Nissan Automobile Technical College in Japan. These unique vehicles, built as part of the students’ final projects, pay homage to Nissan’s iconic models while adding fresh, modern twists that demonstrate the next generation of car design and engineering.
The first vehicle, a modern take on the classic Skyline GTX Kenmeri, has been built using the V35 platform (the same platform as the Infiniti G35) to create a car that appeals to a new generation of enthusiasts while honoring the design elements that made the Skyline a beloved classic. Dubbed the NEO Skyline, the project represents a blend of nostalgia, encouragement, and originality. The students aimed to capture the essence of the original model while making it relevant for today’s drivers. This project took six months to complete and reflects the students’ ambition to create a car that bridges the past and present.
Next, the students took on the bold task of combining the Nissan Z coupe with the rear end of the Nissan Leaf, creating a hybrid that blends performance with eco-friendly electric technology. The design is both surprising and exciting, with the rear of the Nissan Z fused with the back half of the Leaf. The rear fenders were widened to give the car a more muscular stance, in line with the aggressive look of the Nissan Z, resulting in a stunningly unusual yet captivating car. This car took six months to build, and its creation speaks to the students’ fearless approach to combining different worlds of automotive design.
The third car in this trio is a tribute to Nissan’s classic Bluebird Maxima. Built by students at the Nissan Aichi Automobile Technical College, this model takes the stock PU11 Bluebird Maxima and transforms it into the Bluebird Kiwami. The name “Kiwami” translates to “ultimate” in Japanese, reflecting the students’ dedication to perfecting every detail. With just 2.5 months of construction, the Bluebird Kiwami represents a perfect balance of vintage design and modern refinements, aimed at those who appreciate classic cars while embracing the future of automotive technology.
All three vehicles will be shown to the public at the Tokyo Auto Salon, an event renowned for its celebration of innovative and unique car designs. Nissan’s display will highlight the incredible skill and creativity of the students, who have worked tirelessly to blend nostalgia with modern engineering. The cars showcase a forward-thinking vision for Nissan, with a mix of performance, innovation, and respect for the past.
The trio of cars—each representing a different era of Nissan’s rich history—offers a fresh perspective on what the future of automotive design could look like. From the NEO Skyline’s homage to the past to the hybrid innovation of the Z-Leap and the classic beauty of the Bluebird Kiwami, Nissan is proving that its commitment to both tradition and innovation continues to drive the brand forward.
These student-built cars aren’t just about creating something new—they’re about honoring the legacy of Nissan’s iconic models while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive world. With each car, the students have displayed a profound respect for the brand’s past while contributing their vision for the future of car design. As Nissan prepares to reveal these impressive vehicles at the Tokyo Auto Salon, it’s clear that the future of the brand is in capable, creative hands.
