Amid turbulence at Stellantis, Dodge continues its bold trajectory, unveiling fresh models with an audacious spirit. The assembly line in Windsor, Ontario, is now producing the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona, a groundbreaking electric muscle car. The rollout begins with the two-door 2024 Charger Daytona R/T, boasting 496 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, alongside the $75,185 Scat Pack, delivering a formidable 670 horsepower via electric powertrains.
By mid-2025, Dodge will expand the lineup with four-door electric Daytonas, followed by the release of two- and four-door Charger Sixpacks in the latter half of the year. These models will feature the Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six gasoline engine. Looking ahead to 2026, the SRT Banshee will join the ranks as a battery-electric performance marvel, promising blistering speed and unparalleled muscle. While these internal combustion engine (ICE) models serve as entry-level options, they still pack 426 to 550 horsepower, underscoring Dodge’s performance pedigree.
The schedule has experienced minor delays. Originally slated for fall, the BEV launch shifted to late 2024 to ensure meticulous quality control, according to Dodge CEO Matt McAlear. Having driven a production model for months, McAlear reports widespread admiration for the vehicle. With software updates now finalized, production units are shipping to dealerships.
Electrifying Soundscapes
The Daytona’s “Fratzonic chambered exhaust” has sparked intrigue. This synthetic sound system, McAlear notes, delivers an exhilarating auditory experience. Adjustable to suit driving modes, it ranges from subtle to thunderous. Drivers can even silence it, ideal for quiet departures or phone calls. The soundscape, engineered to evoke the V-8’s firing pattern, strikes a balance between nostalgic and futuristic, connecting drivers to the car’s essence.
“We couldn’t just replicate the Hellcat sound—that would be heresy,” McAlear explained. Instead, Dodge crafted an entirely unique acoustic profile that blends muscle-car tradition with forward-thinking innovation.
Pursuit Models on the Horizon
Dodge’s Pursuit police packages remain in development. Although timelines are uncertain, McAlear revealed that the Charger Pursuit concept debuted at a recent law enforcement expo to overwhelming interest. Collaborations with the California Highway Patrol and Michigan State Police are ongoing to refine specifications, with the goal of releasing the package by late 2025, depending on required modifications.
Fleet demand surged with the outgoing Charger, and interest in the Durango Pursuit remains robust. The Durango SUV, despite its age, continues to attract a loyal following for its towing capabilities and performance. McAlear affirmed the model’s staying power, hinting at future evolutions and special editions to maintain its market appeal.
No Plans for Extended-Range Models
Unlike the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger, which utilizes a gasoline engine to extend its electric range, Dodge has no immediate plans to adopt extended-range powertrains. The current STLA Large platform may not support such hybrids, and Dodge remains focused on its electric and ICE muscle offerings.
A Compact Yet Tenacious Lineup
The Hornet, Dodge’s newest entrant, has gained traction, with strong sales driven by the R/T plug-in hybrid and the GT internal combustion model. The hybrid’s $7,000 tax credit has proven a significant incentive for lessees.
As for expanding the portfolio, McAlear insists that any addition must align with Dodge’s ethos of bold performance and muscular design. “We won’t dilute the brand just to add more vehicles,” he stated.
Despite its concise lineup, Dodge remains a cornerstone of automotive heritage, 110 years strong. With continued investment in innovation and new platforms, the brand is poised to sustain its legacy of power and audacity well into the future.
