Debuting in 1966 to rival the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro carved its niche in the pony car segment alongside its Pontiac Firebird twin.
However, unlike the Mustang, the Camaro’s path wasn’t always smooth. Production ceased twice due to factors like slumping sales, an underutilized Canadian plant, and a dated platform.
This hiatus ended in 2009 with the well-received fifth generation, which boasted annual sales exceeding 80,000 units.
The sixth generation, however, couldn’t replicate that success. While 2016 saw a high of 72,705 deliveries, sales dipped consistently in the following years. A 2023 uptick coincided with the announcement of the Camaro’s end in 2024.
The reasons behind this decline are two-fold: the rising popularity of SUVs and trucks, and a perceived lack of commitment from GM after the 2017 ZL1 introduction. Rumors of a Z/28 with a Corvette Z06 engine swirled but never materialized, further fueling speculation about GM’s dedication to the Camaro.
The Chevrolet Camaro is set to return, but this time with a significant twist. Unlike its most recent iteration, the iconic muscle car is expected to shed its gas-guzzling ways in favor of a fully electric drivetrain.
Rumors even suggest an electric sedan variant is on the table, though internal debates at GM regarding body style remain unresolved. While the official design is yet to be revealed, artist Hycade has captured the imagination of enthusiasts with a digital rendering of a sleek, coupe-bodied seventh-generation Camaro.
Borrowing design cues from the Ford Mustang GTD, the concept boasts prominent wheel arches, aggressive aerodynamics, and low-profile tires a design sure to please fans who might be less enthusiastic about a potential four-door or five-door variant.
This decision contrasts with Dodge’s approach for the new Charger, which offers a choice between electric and gasoline powertrains in both three-door and five-door configurations.
While a crossover design might offer better sales figures, Dodge deserves credit for prioritizing a low center of gravity in their new offering, a crucial factor for maintaining handling prowess despite the car’s significant weight.
