World's fastest man to help develop 'Bolt-performance' GT-R

In recognition of Bolt's contribution to sports and his automotive enthusiasm, Nissan's Chief Operating Officer unveiled a unique gold-painted GT-R, which will be auctioned to benefit the Usain Bolt Foundation.

Proceeds from the online auction, details which will be announced later in October, will help the foundation's work creating educational and cultural opportunities for children and young people in the Olympic Champion's home country of Jamaica.

Bolt, appearing at Nissan's world headquarters, said, "Racing is my inspiration, and I want to help Nissan become an even more exciting brand for everyone."

The one-off GT-R, to be auctioned on the eBay online auction platform, will be embossed with Bolt's signature and bespoke interior fittings finished in real gold.

News of the deepening Nissan relationship coincides with Bolt's pledge to defend his titles at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

As part of Bolt's partnership with Nissan, the sprinter today test-drove various GT-R models at the car company's proving ground near Oppama, Japan, where his reaction times, acceleration and other handling capabilities will be used in developing a special 'Bolt GT-R' for his personal use. Additionally, Bolt will start work with Nissan product specialists on a limited-edition version which can be ordered in markets where GT-R is available. Details of this project will be announced at a later stage.

Bolt, who was collected from Tokyo's Narita Airport in a GT-R driven by F1 racer Mark Webber, is expected to contribute further to Nissan's 'WHAT IF_' global brand campaign.