In a groundbreaking move, Dodge recently unveiled the production model of the Charger Daytona, marking a significant leap into the future of muscle cars with its first electric iteration. This launch sets the stage for an exhilarating blend of traditional muscle car thrills and cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology, promising to meet the high expectations of both muscle car enthusiasts and EV aficionados.
At the heart of this revolution is the Charger Daytona’s dual-motor powertrain, built on Dodge’s modular STLA Large platform. Available in two dynamic trims at its launch, the vehicle boldly steps into the future while nodding to its heritage. The R/T model, reminiscent of its classic moniker, boasts an impressive 496 horsepower and 404 ft-lbs of torque. Taking performance a notch higher, the Scat Pack variant unleashes a formidable 670 horsepower and 627 ft-lbs of torque. Both trims feature all-wheel drive and introduce a ‘Powershot’ boost, adding an exhilarating 40 horsepower for 15 seconds, showcasing Dodge’s commitment to exhilarating performance in an electric format.
Acceleration is swift, with the R/T sprinting from zero to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and the Scat Pack in an astonishing 3.3 seconds. However, their top speeds, peaking at 137 mph for the R/T and 134 mph for the Scat Pack, hint at further potential awaiting in the rumored Banshee variant set to debut next year.
The Charger Daytona doesn’t just redefine muscle car performance; it also sets a new standard for EV range and efficiency. Equipped with a 100.5-kWh battery, the R/T model is expected to cover 317 miles on a single charge, while the Scat Pack aims for a 260-mile range. Despite the Scat Pack falling short of the 300-mile range benchmark, its sheer power and performance focus are likely to captivate its target audience, emphasizing thrill over efficiency.
Rapid charging capabilities are part of the package, with an 11.0-KW onboard charger facilitating a swift 20- to 80-percent battery recharge in 28 minutes via a 350-kW DC fast charger, ensuring the Daytona is as practical as it is thrilling.
The transition to electric power might raise eyebrows among muscle car purists, yet Dodge has ingeniously balanced innovation with tradition. The announcement also teased the continuation of gas-powered Chargers, featuring the new twin-turbocharged inline-six Hurrican engine, promising variants like the 550-hp Sixpack H.O and the 420-hp Sixpack S.O.
Aesthetically, the Charger Daytona retains its iconic muscle car presence, now with a sleeker, more refined design. Notably, the latest model surprises with a full-length glass roof and a large rear hatch, available in both two- and four-door configurations, blending classic appeal with modern versatility.
The interior reimagines the Charger experience, melding familiar design cues with advanced technology. The cockpit features two free-standing displays, including a customizable gauge cluster up to 16 inches and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, enriched by modern comforts like a squared-off steering wheel and a distinctive “pistol-grip” shifter.
With production of the R/T and Scat Pack EVs slated for this summer and the gas-powered variants next year, anticipation for the Charger Daytona is at an all-time high. As Dodge prepares to release more details, including pricing, the automotive world watches closely, ready to embrace this electrifying new chapter in muscle car history.
