Honda’s Quest for the Ultimate Electric Type R: Challenges in Creating a Thrilling Ride

Honda has been contemplating the possibilities of an electric Type R since the year 2020. A few years later, the leading engineer for the CTR expressed concern regarding how more stringent emissions regulations are compelling manufacturers to electrify their enjoyable vehicles. However, as of 2025, there remains no indication of a Type R-branded vehicle devoid of a combustion engine. In fact, a company representative is now strongly suggesting that a high-performance EV adorned with the coveted red badge won’t materialize in the near future.

In a conversation with the British publication Auto Express, Toshihiro Akiwa, the leader of the automaker’s BEV Development Center, elucidated why crafting an exhilarating electric vehicle deserving of the Type R emblem poses significant challenges. He remarked that Honda faces substantial challenges in creating an electric vehicle that can replicate the excitement of the gasoline-powered Type R.

“A battery and motor exhibit varying characteristics, so we can’t replicate something that is exactly the same as before. As an EV, how can we deliver the joy of driving? We have certainly not surrendered hope, but it’s not merely about power; it includes sound, vibration, acceleration, and the overall human experience. These are the joys of driving.”

Despite these challenges, Honda is resolute in its aim to introduce an electric sports vehicle before this decade concludes. Its Acura luxury division has already committed to reintroducing the NSX for a third generation with a completely electric powertrain. In an interview with Motor1 during last year’s Monterey Car Week, global executive vice president Shinji Aoyama affirmed that a model akin to the NSX will be available by 2027 or 2028.

While it may not be designated with the NSX name, it will compete in the same category. This electric performance vehicle will leverage Honda’s new 0 (Zero) Series electric architecture, which will first support the Ohio-manufactured radically designed 0 Saloon and 0 SUV unveiled earlier this month at CES in Las Vegas.

It is premature to determine if the revamped NSX will serve as Honda’s inaugural electric Type R. Even if it does, logic suggests that the more potent variant is quite unlikely to debut at launch, so do not anticipate seeing it until around 2030 or perhaps even later. Honda is currently engaged in a major merger with Nissan, indicating that an exciting EV probably does not rank high on the priority list since it is a niche offering. Meanwhile, the Civic upholds the legacy of Type R in the era of combustion engines, which commenced in November 1992 when the first Type R model—the NSX-R—was revealed.

However, while Honda grapples with preliminary setbacks, high-performance EVs are already making their presence known. Noteworthy examples across various body types include the Alpine A290 hot hatch, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N crossover, the MG Cyberster convertible, and the Audi RS E-Tron GT sedan. Porsche is also finalizing a 718 EV coupe to complement the Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo wagon.