The year 2023 marked a bittersweet end for petrolheads as Dodge bid farewell to the current lineup of internal combustion Challengers and Chargers. However, for lovers of electric vehicles, the tears shed by Hellcat enthusiasts were met with high-fives and delight, thanks to the arrival of the all-new Dodge Charger SRT Daytona EV.
Dodge has masterfully blended the legacy of the original Charger design with cutting-edge electric technology, creating a vehicle that not only pays homage to its muscle car roots but also represents the brand’s step into a new era of electrification.
Design That Resonates
The Charger SRT Daytona EV retains the iconic features of a muscle car – a long hood, wide low stance, and a bold, wide grille. Dodge has included a newly developed “r-wing” that pays tribute to the original Daytona while optimizing the car’s aerodynamics. Carbon fiber intakes in the lower bumper further reduce air drag, showcasing Dodge’s commitment to both style and performance.
Enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate the glowing badge on the hood and trunk, featuring the return of the three-pointed Fred zogs, a throwback to the Charger’s glory days in the 1960s and ’70s.
Practicality Meets Performance
Surprisingly practical for a muscle car, the Charger EV boasts four seats and a spacious trunk, offering a blend of performance and usability that sets it apart in a market often dominated by crossovers and SUVs.
Inside, Dodge draws inspiration from the 1968 Charger, creating an interior that seamlessly blends heritage with modernity. A pistol grip shifter, wood grain accents, and a flat-bottom steering wheel contribute to an immersive driving experience. Technological features include a 12.3-inch center screen, a 16-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 8×3-inch head-up display for a touch of sci-fi vibes.
Thunderous Performance
Under the hood, the Charger SRT Daytona EV aims to outperform its Hellcat predecessor. The highest-performing 750-horsepower 800-volt Banshee trim promises a remarkable driving experience. Other options include 400-volt models, with the SRT 340 delivering around 455 horsepower and the SRT 440 boasting 590 horsepower.
The all-wheel-drive configuration ensures stability, reducing the notorious rear-end drift associated with rear-wheel-drive muscle cars. The newly designed erupt transmission technology allows for a sportier driving experience, allowing drivers to manually select gears.
Immersive Sound Experience
Dodge tackles the common criticism of electric vehicles being “boring” by introducing a digitally engineered 126D frat zonic chambered exhaust system. This system aims to recreate the visceral sound of a classic muscle car, providing drivers with the rumble and roar they expect from a high-performance vehicle. The exhaust system is touted to be as loud as a Hellcat, offering a unique blend of electrification and nostalgia.
Pricing and Release
While Dodge has yet to reveal specific pricing details, estimates suggest that the Charger SRT Daytona EV will start at $50,000 for the SRT 340, $60,000 for the SRT 440, and approximately $90,000 for the top-tier Banshee trim. The eagerly anticipated release is set for 2024, marking a new era for Dodge and electrification enthusiasts alike.
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