Honda has neither confirmed nor denied the possibility of developing an electric Civic Type R model, despite its current focus on hybrid technologies instead of all-electric models.
Tomoyuki Yamagami, head of the Honda Prelude project, told Auto Express that the Type R could be what “the market is looking for.” He emphasised that the Type R designation “is not dependent on the turbo.”
According to Yamagami, the Type R designation is about maximising the car’s dynamic characteristics. However, the electric Type R is still far from a serious production story.
Toshihiro Akiwa, head of Honda’s electric car development centre, was asked earlier this year how engineers can ensure the electric Type R can still remain fun to drive. According to Akiwa, the battery and electric motor give the car a different driving dynamic that presents unique challenges, even for the Japanese.
Honda is currently shifting resources from electric vehicles to hybrid technologies due to the changing market situation. The future of electric vehicles, especially in America, has become more uncertain due to reduced tax incentives and financing conditions.
The company has reportedly already given up on a large all-electric SUV model, so it is unlikely that it will invest the resources needed to develop an electric sports car with the iconic label.
