Posted August 07, 2023 by Paul Owen
In a groundbreaking move, Dodge, the renowned American muscle car manufacturer, announced last year that it would be venturing into the world of electric vehicles (EVs). CEO Tim Kunikis revealed that the gas-powered Charger and Challenger models would cease production in 2023, making way for an all-electric Charger concept car slated for release in 2024. This shift marks a significant milestone for Dodge, a brand deeply rooted in gasoline-powered muscle cars. As federal regulations tighten around carbon emissions, car manufacturers are increasingly turning to rechargeable battery-driven models.
Amid the Dodge EV (Mobil Listrik Dodge) transition, Dodge emphasizes that its move to electric does not spell the end of muscle cars; instead, it marks the beginning of a new era. Tim Kuniskis believes that these developments will redefine American muscle, introducing a new era of high-performance electric vehicles that still carry the spirit, look, and sound of a Dodge.
The 2024 Charger EV features the unique "Banshee" badges on the front fenders, symbolizing its electric 800-volt propulsion system. Power is transmitted through the eRupt multi-speed transmission with a power boost option called "PowerShot." This system provides a burst of acceleration and extra horsepower, making it a formidable competitor against other high-performance electric cars like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan Turbo S.
The new Charger EV is not just a departure in powertrain; it also showcases design cues from classic Dodge vehicles. The iconic Fratzog badge, used in the '60s, makes a comeback as the symbol of Dodge's future EVs. The car also borrows styling elements from past models, including the "nose cone" from the 1969-1970 Daytona and the roofline inspired by the second-generation Charger.
One significant change in the Charger EV is its all-wheel-drive nature, departing from its predecessors' rear-wheel-drive models. The Banshee powertrain, expected to be more powerful than the existing Hellcat V8 engine's 808 hp, will drive this transformation.
The 2024 Charger EV will offer four driving modes: Drag, Sport, Track, and Auto, catering to different driving preferences and conditions.
Under the Stellantis group, Dodge's parent company, the Charger EV will utilize one of the four newly introduced EV architectures for electric cars and SUVs. The first architecture offers 310 miles of range as standard, with the option to extend it to 435 miles through a performance pack.
With the Charger EV still in development, specific range figures and architecture details will be revealed closer to the car's launch date.
The 2024 Dodge Charger EV signals an exciting new direction for American muscle cars. As Dodge embraces the electric future, it promises a thrilling driving experience, high performance, and an unmistakable Dodge identity. The Charger EV will be a testament to the evolution of muscle cars in the 21st century, where electric power and muscle meet, creating a new era of automotive excellence.