In an interview with Auto Express (via Motor1), the head of Honda’s Japanese BEV Development Center Toshihiro Akiwa, explained why Honda can’t just slap a Type R badge on an E

Honda wants the Civic Type R to stick around in the electric era, though only if future versions are as fun to drive as the current gas model.

The name " Type R " is sacred ground for Honda. Anything with the red H badge receives the utmost care and attention to make it as close as possible to ideal for driving enthusiasts — and the company is, apparently, finding it difficult to translate that Type R feeling into an electric vehocle.

Just like the Toyota Supra, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, or Porsche 911, the Honda Civic Type R is a legendary performance vehicle, one that has delighted enthusiasts for several decades and vehicle generations.