Dodge Charger will live on as a new EV and a gas-powered muscle car
In Detroit, Dodge reassured its loyal Charger and Challenger enthusiasts by announcing that the next-generation muscle car will cater to both traditional gas-powered aficionados and embrace the future with an all-electric model.
The unveiling on Tuesday marked a significant shift for Dodge, introducing the first-ever all-electric car alongside the next-generation gas-powered Charger. The decision to develop both versions comes after speculation about the fate of the traditional models since late 2022, when Dodge initially hinted at discontinuing production.
By offering both electric and gas-powered options, Dodge aims to adapt to the evolving automotive landscape while also addressing the slower-than-expected growth of all-electric vehicle sales. Following the launch of the initial models, Dodge plans to introduce more variations, including an electric “Banshee” model, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and flexibility in production.
Performance and Innovation
Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis hailed the electric vehicle (EV) as a “game changer in the industry.” Additionally, the upcoming gas-powered models are poised to surpass their predecessors equipped with V-6 engines and even rival some V-8 variants in performance.
“We’re taking the performance of the ‘golden age’ that you know today that you judge everything by and we’re taking the technology of the future to make sure [the Dodge brothers’] legacy doesn’t die,” Kuniskis emphasized during a media briefing. “The Banshee is going to be our ultimate performer.”
Two- and Four-Door Models
The 2024 Charger EV, dubbed the Daytona, is slated for release this summer, boasting up to 670 horsepower, 627 foot-pounds of peak torque, and an impressive 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds.
The rollout strategy prioritizes the two-door EV variants, with the four-door models set to follow in the first quarter of next year. Meanwhile, gas-powered Chargers featuring a new inline-six engine are anticipated to hit the market in 2025.
Pricing and Model Variants
According to Kuniskis, pricing details for both the electric vehicle (EV) and gas-powered models will be disclosed closer to their production dates. Currently, the starting prices for gas models of the Charger and Challenger range approximately from $33,000 to $96,000.
Transition to Two- and Four-Door Variants
The upcoming EV and gas models will eventually be available in two- and four-door configurations, replacing the current four-door Dodge Charger and two-door Challenger. This transition aligns with a directive from Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, aimed at streamlining parts and reducing costs.
Dodge has announced that all EV and gas models will share both interior and exterior designs, a move anticipated to streamline production complexities and lower costs.
When questioned about the profitability of the EV, Kuniskis reaffirmed Tavares’ stance that electrified vehicles will not be sold at a loss to artificially boost sales or meet federal fuel economy standards.
In contrast to many brands that have shifted towards smaller, more fuel-efficient engines in recent years, Dodge has introduced powerful models like the Hellcat series and other high-performance vehicles. While these models have garnered attention for the brand, they have also contributed to Dodge’s carbon footprint, necessitating the purchase of carbon credits from companies such as Tesla.
Stellantis’ “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan outlines a commitment to transitioning towards electrified and more efficient propulsion systems. The goal is to reduce the company’s global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030 and to achieve net carbon neutrality by 2038, thus positioning Stellantis as a leader in sustainable transportation.
Kuniskis clarified that there are no intentions to introduce V-8 or plug-in hybrid electric models for the new Charger. Production of the Charger will take place at a Stellantis assembly plant located in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Regarding the Charger Daytona EV, it will initially be available in “R/T” and “Scat Pack” models, boasting 496 horsepower and 670 horsepower, respectively. Dodge estimates the range on a full charge to be 317 miles for the R/T model and 260 miles for the Scat Pack. Additionally, a feature called “PowerShot” will be standard on Charger Daytona models, providing an extra 40 horsepower for 15 seconds upon activation.
Evolving Design and Sound
“We are going to displace superchargers and replace them with kilowatts and PowerShots,” stated Kuniskis.
The design of the new Charger heavily mirrors a concept car Dodge unveiled in August 2022, presenting a modern yet retro interpretation of the current Dodge Challenger. It boasts a more aerodynamic profile while retaining its muscular aesthetic, notably featuring a prominent front opening termed the “R-Wing” for enhanced airflow.
Kuniskis described the concept car as the “production car hiding in plain sight,” aimed at acclimatizing customers to the upcoming design.
Regarding the EV’s sound, Dodge is still refining it, as per Kuniskis. The goal is to maintain the distinctive roar and driving experience characteristic of Dodge’s current gas-powered Charger and Challenger.
Performance Challenges and Innovations
Although EVs can achieve remarkable 0-60 mph times with their “linear acceleration,” they often lack the driving dynamics cherished by many performance car enthusiasts. This dilemma has prompted auto executives to privately seek solutions as the industry transitions to EVs.
The gas-powered Charger will feature a 3.0-liter twin-turbo “Hurricane” inline six-cylinder engine, already utilized in other Stellantis vehicles like the Jeep Wagoneer and Ram 1500.
The primary distinction between EVs and gas vehicles might be the adoption of a “Fratzog” split deltoid logo for EVs instead of Dodge’s current dual racing stripes. Kuniskis mentioned that the company is still deliberating whether to employ the Fratzog—a term coined by Dodge from 1962 to 1976—for the gas models.
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