On Tuesday, Dodge sent shockwaves through the automotive world with the global debut of the all-new Dodge Charger – the world’s first electric muscle car and multi-energy muscle vehicle.
This news comes hot on the heels of Dodge’s earlier announcement in late 2022 that production of the cherished Charger and Challenger models would cease by the end of the following year.
While Dodge hinted at an electric vehicle taking the reins from these iconic cars, they remained tight-lipped about the possibility of future gas-powered versions.
For muscle car enthusiasts, this transition stirred mixed emotions, leaving many feeling like the muscle car era had met its end. Or at least, was taking on a new dimension.
But for those who feared the future of muscle cars was fading fast, today brings reassurance. The muscle car will continue its enduring legacy, now as a dual offering.
Dodge’s decision to offer both EV and gas-powered options for the Charger reflects its commitment to history and flexible production, especially given the slower-than-expected growth in sales of electric vehicles.
As Dodge charts its course forward, it’s evident that the forthcoming Charger will cater to a diverse range of gearheads, the ones who revel in the latest innovations and those who hold dear to tradition.
Reviving Tradition: Unveiling the all-new Dodge Charger
The automotive world has been abuzz with anticipation lately, and Dodge has finally lifted the veil on its latest masterpiece: the all-new Dodge Charger. Injected with muscle car DNA both inside and out, this powerhouse represents the epitome of next-generation performance, both as an electric model and gas-powered variant.
Key performance features include:
- PowerShot Mode: Offering an exhilarating boost of 40 horsepower for Charger Daytona models, activated by a throttle punch, PowerShot mode ensures an adrenaline-fueled driving experience.
- High-Performance Brakes: With massive 16-inch Brembo vented rotors and red six-piston front/four-piston rear fixed calipers, the Charger boasts the largest brake package ever offered by Dodge, delivering ultimate track performance and brake fade resistance.
- Brake by Wire eBoost: The intelligent braking system seamlessly blends regeneration and foundation braking, ensuring optimum braking force and pedal feedback.
- Wheels/Tires: Sporting 20-inch wheels and staggered Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires, the Charger’s tire package allows for independent tuning of the front and rear tires, maximizing lateral acceleration and stability.
- Suspension: Featuring a multi-link front suspension and fully independent rear suspension, the Charger delivers enhanced cornering performance and body control during high-speed maneuvers.
- Dual-valve Semi-active Suspension: Optional on the Charger Daytona Scat Pack, this adaptive damping suspension offers a smoother ride over rough roads and a wider range of personalization in each Drive Mode.
- Drive Modes: From Auto to Track and Drag, the Charger’s range of Drive Modes allows drivers to tailor the muscle car’s personality to their preferences, with Track mode maximizing vehicle performance capability on smooth, dry surfaces.
- Race Options: Explore muscle car performance like never before with exclusive Donut and Drift Modes, Launch Control, Line Lock, and Dodge-exclusive race-prep options.
Dodge electrified
The all-new, all-electric 2024 Dodge EV packs a punch with up to 670 horsepower, making it the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car. Zooming from 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, it’s a force to be reckoned with on the road.
Not to be outdone, the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack covers the quarter-mile in an impressive 11.5 seconds, holding the title for the fastest quarter-mile elapsed time of any muscle car.
But the excitement doesn’t end there.
In addition to the Charger Daytona Scat Pack, the lineup includes the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona R/T, boasting 496 horsepower. These models represent the first-ever all-electric vehicles from the Dodge brand, combining high-performance with eco-friendly innovation.
Dodge CEO calls the EV a “game changer in the industry”
Speaking at a media briefing, Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis emphasized Dodge’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the brand’s founders, stating, “We’re merging the performance standards of the ‘golden age’ with the technology of the future to ensure that the Dodge brothers’ legacy endures.”
He further highlighted the upcoming Banshee model as the epitome of Dodge’s dedication to ultimate performance. Meanwhile, the gas-powered models are poised to surpass the performance benchmarks set by their V-6 engine predecessors and even some V-8 variants.
In general, the freshly unveiled Dodge Charger embodies the essence of classic muscle car aesthetics, marrying modern muscularity with a sleek exterior that prioritizes functionality and eschews superfluous elements.
Drawing subtle inspiration from its iconic predecessors, the Charger’s design pays tribute to the clean and timeless lines of the past. Both EV and gas models will share similar exterior and interior design.
Final thoughts
This latest chapter in Dodge’s storied history not only pays homage to the legacy of muscle cars but also propels it into the future with cutting-edge technology and performance.
As gearheads and enthusiasts alike eagerly await the arrival of the world’s first electric muscle car, Dodge’s decision to provide both EV and gas-powered options signals a forward-thinking approach that ensures the muscle car spirit lives on for generations to come.
Dodge plans to launch the EV in the market this summer, marking its inaugural entry into the all-electric market. The gas-powered models will follow in 2025.
Pricing for the EV and gas-powered editions are not available at this time. The previous Charger and Challenger gas models started at approximately $33,000 and go up to around $96,000, so we suspect the new models will fall within that range.