Even as Dodge introduces its first electric muscle car, it appears unwilling to part ways with the gas-powered Charger just yet.
A recent report suggests that Dodge has decided to push the launch of an upcoming gasoline-powered Charger model ahead of its initial timeline by several months.
Dodge’s legendary muscle car is now entering the electric era. In March, the company officially introduced the Charger Daytona EV, calling it “the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car.”
Tim Kuniskis, the CEO of Dodge, stated that the new generation of Dodge muscle vehicles had officially arrived. The automaker has maintained the aggressive widebody styling that has long defined the Charger, but modern upgrades set this model apart.
A full-length LED light bar at the front and distinctive red “ring of fire” LED taillights at the rear give it a refreshed appearance while staying true to its roots.
Also Read: Dodge Announces Final Limited-Edition Gas-Powered Muscle Car
Delivering performance comparable to the Hellcat Redeye, the Charger Daytona Scat Pack EV comes equipped with a factory-installed stage 2 upgrade kit.
This setup generates an impressive 670 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.
The vehicle includes innovative features such as PowerShot, which provides an additional 40 horsepower boost, along with various driving modes like donut, drift, launch control, and race prep to enhance its capabilities on the road.
Dodge Accelerates Gas-Powered Charger Launch
Adding to its distinctiveness, Dodge has developed the patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system, which aims to replicate the sound of the Hellcat model despite the vehicle’s electric powertrain.
Although excitement surrounds the electric Charger, reports indicate that Dodge is expediting the release of its gas-powered SIXPACK models.
The revised timeline suggests that these gasoline models will now be available at dealerships by next summer, instead of the previously planned late 2025 launch.
Dodge had originally announced that the first versions of the electric Charger Daytona EV, specifically the First Edition trims, would arrive before the gas-powered SIXPACK model, which was initially set for release in the first quarter of 2025. However, shortly thereafter, the gasoline version was delayed.
Insiders familiar with the situation claim that Dodge’s decision to move up the launch is largely due to stronger consumer interest in its traditional combustion-engine muscle cars.
Additionally, the report points out that possible moves in regulatory policies under President-Elect Donald Trump may have influenced the decision.
While the electric Charger remains on track to be released first, Dodge has not yet provided an official date for when the First Edition models will be available.
Sources indicate that engineers are currently working to resolve issues related to shock components, software update reflashes, and other minor refinements before the vehicles reach customers.
Also Read: Dodge Ends an Era with the Final Hellcat Model Announcement
| 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV Trim | Horsepower | 0 to 60 mph Time | Starting Price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dodge Charger Daytona R/T | 496 hp | 4.7 seconds | $59,995 |
| Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack | 670 hp | 3.3 seconds | $73,190 |
(*Excluding a $1,995 destination fee)
Dodge began accepting orders for the electric Charger in September, with the base Daytona R/T model priced at $59,995.
For those seeking higher performance, the Scat Pack variant starts at $73,190. Both versions are eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit.