Who said we’re set for a global slowdown? A dazzling gold-plated car worth $1 million (Dh3.67 million) was unveiled in Dubai today. The customized Nissan R35 GT-R was the centerpiece of Automechanika, an automotive parts exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The gilty pleasure is being showcased by ace tuners and customizers of sports cars, Kuhl Racing. Named the Godzilla, the car is a result of a cooperation between Artis, Kuhl Racing and master engraver Takahiko Izawa.

The special gold paint sheen covers a 3.8 litre V6 twin turbo 545 hp engine, souped up with additional horsepower and additional torque. The car features enhanced aerodynamic features, a reinforced body and precision handling.

Racecar speeds

The car’s engine is backed by an advanced paddle-shifted sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which can be driver selected to shift at race car-like speeds. The sequential-shifting transaxle features separate wet clutches for the odd (1,3,5) and even (2,4,6) gears and pre-selects the next highest and next lowest gear for quick shifts.

High performance differential oil, used in GT-R motorsports competition, is standard. For 2016, the Nissan GT-R defends its position as one of the most striking supercars in the market today – with the addition of new 20-spoke wheels.

The technology used for the paint by Artis Izawa Custom paint Works is Takumi Technology and the result is an engaging and tangible sensation of luxury through a distinctive feat of ingenious engineering.

The car’s paint job is a combination of premium design and a unique convergence of craftsmanship and innovation that results in a one-of-a-kind matte aesthetic with a subtly textured finish, imbued with notable durability and cleaning attributes.

Largest exhibition

Spanning 15 halls at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Automechanika Dubai covers six core product groups, including parts and components, electronics and systems, repair and maintenance, tyres and batteries, accessories and tuning, and service station and car wash. It is the largest trade exhibition for the rapidly developing automotive aftermarket in the wider Middle East and Africa region.

With 90 per cent of the exhibitors based outside of the UAE, Automechanika Dubai 2016 is also the most internationally representative in its 14-year history, highlighted by 25 Country Pavilions, including debut pavilions from Japan, Peru, the Netherlands, and Iran. 

Spearheading the international exhibitor charge are country pavilions from Gemany and Italy, with 103 and 78 exhibitors respectively, USA (58 exhibitors) Brazil (25 exhibitors), Korea (88 exhibitors), Turkey (75 exhibitors), South Africa (16 exhibitors) and Japan (11 exhibitors).