One thing is for sure is that Honda won’t build an electric Type R unless it believes what it comes up with is worthy of the name. So, if the automaker doesn’t crack the code, the Type R badge may die with combustion engines. For the sake of Honda-heads everywhere, we hope they figure it out.

Like most automakers, Honda is looking for ways to electrify its lineup while still keeping the unique driving characteristics the Japanese company is known for. This is no simple task, especially for performance vehicles like the Honda Civic Type R — cars that need to feel a certain way and be fun,

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.

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.

Even though Honda has made some of the best hot hatches ever, it’s struggling to infuse “the joys of driving” into an EV.