Why Honda Might Never Build An All-Electric Type R
Could Honda's iconic Type R badge ever go electric?
According to Honda, the answer isn’t simple. The automaker is carefully considering how—or even if—the Type R can leap into the electric age without compromising its core identity.
In a recent interview with Auto Express, Toshihiro Akiwa, head of Honda’s Japanese BEV Development Center, explained the challenges of translating the visceral excellence of the Type R family into an EV.
“A battery and motor have different characteristics, so we can't come up with something exactly the same as before,” Akiwa said. “As an EV, how can we provide the joy of driving? It’s not just about power—it’s about the sound, vibration, acceleration, and the human experience. These are the joys of driving.”
Akiwa’s remarks speak directly to many traditional enthusiasts who simply aren't impressed by the obscene performance figures from performance EVs.
Raw numbers like horsepower and torque aren’t enough to capture the emotional experience that defines a Type R. The sound of the engine, the harmonic vibrations through the steering wheel, the accelerator pedal, and the gear shift. In many cases, the sensations of speed are just as important as VMAX.
Honda isn’t the only automaker wrestling with this challenge. For example, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has shown how performance EVs can still deliver thrills. Through synthetic sounds, simulated gear shifts, and engaging driving dynamics, Hyundai has crafted an electric performance car that doesn’t feel sterile or disconnected—relative to other EVs. It's a playbook Honda is already trying to follow with the upcoming Prelude.
However, Porsche is reportedly struggling with developing the electric 718. Going through iterations of battery designs as it tries to retain the characteristics that have made the Cayman a popular choice among PCA track day attendees and IMSA GT4 teams.
Thankfully Honda isn't interested in building a fast EV and slapping on a Type R badge. The brand has made it clear that it won’t release an electric Type R unless it truly embodies the brand’s driving ethos. This might mean we may never see an electric Type R if Honda’s engineers can’t “crack the code” to make it worthy—for some enthusiasts that's perfectly fine.
Whether or not Honda can electrify the Type R without losing its soul remains an open question.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
More by Michael Accardi
Comments
Join the conversation