The American automotive icon has officially evolved. Dodge has unveiled the all-new Charger Daytona, a groundbreaking entry into the electric vehicle (EV) era that preserves the muscular spirit of its predecessors. Available in both two-door coupe and four-door sedan body styles with identical wheelbases, the new Charger lineup is set to redefine performance with the R/T and Scat Pack trims.
Built on the versatile STLA Large platform, the Charger Daytona utilizes a 400V architecture. Featuring dual electric motors—one on each axle—the vehicle offers standard all-wheel drive, though the front module can disconnect to enhance efficiency and driving range. Each motor unit integrates an inverter, gearbox, and motor, producing a robust 335 horsepower and 406 Nm of torque.
Performance and Power Dynamics
Dodge has engineered six levels of performance for the 400V system. Out of the factory, the R/T variant produces 456 horsepower, while the Scat Pack generates 590 horsepower. Through the “Direct Connection” upgrade program, the R/T can gain an additional 40 horsepower with Stage 1, while the Scat Pack can jump by 80 horsepower with Stage 2.
At its peak, the Scat Pack delivers a staggering 670 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in an estimated 3.3 seconds. The R/T variant offers 496 horsepower and 547 Nm of torque, clocking the 0-100 km/h run in 4.7 seconds. A high-performance 800V “Banshee” variant is slated to join the lineup at a later date.
To handle this immense power, the Charger Daytona features the largest brakes ever fitted to a production Dodge: Brembo 16-inch rotors with six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear. The handling is supported by a sophisticated multi-link front suspension and a four-point independent rear setup, with optional semi-active damping available in the Daytona Scat and Track packages.
Driving Modes and Race Tech
The Charger Daytona introduces the “PowerShot” mode, triggered by a button on the steering wheel, providing a 40-horsepower boost for 15 seconds with a 30-second cool-down period. Drivers can choose from five standard drive modes: Auto, Eco, Sport, Wet/Snow, and Track, with the Scat Pack adding a specialized “Drag” mode.
For enthusiasts, the “Race Options” suite includes features like Donut and Drift modes, offering three levels of slip angle control. Additionally, the vehicle includes Line Lock, Launch Control, and “Race Prep,” which optimizes the battery temperature for short-burst drag racing sessions.
Range, Charging, and Design
Efficiency and practicality remain central to the EV experience. The Charger Daytona R/T boasts an estimated range of 510 km, while the high-performance Scat Pack is rated at 418 km. Utilizing a Level 3 DC fast charger, both models can charge from 20% to 80% in just over 27 minutes.
The design stays remarkably faithful to the original concept. Signature styling cues include laser-etched Dodge logos in the headlights and the illuminated “Fratzog” logo integrated into the LED light bars. A standout feature is the “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust,” a system designed to simulate the aggressive auditory experience of a combustion engine.
Interior and Tech Integration
Inside, the cabin balances modern functionality with retro-inspired muscle car aesthetics. Drivers are greeted by a 64-color ambient lighting system, a flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a pistol-grip gear selector.
Technology takes center stage with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster (16 inches on the Scat Pack) and a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audiophiles can opt for an 18-speaker, 914-watt Alpine sound system, while those hitting the track can utilize a 1080p 60fps camera system to record their driving data and audio.
Looking Ahead
While the EV variants lead the charge, Dodge has also confirmed internal combustion options. A 3.0-liter twin-turbo “Hurricane” inline-six engine will power the upcoming “Sixpack” models, producing 420 or 550 horsepower. Distinguishing the electric from the gas models, the signature “R-Wing” front aerodynamic feature remains exclusive to the EV variants.
Production for the Charger Daytona EV is scheduled to begin mid-2026, with the four-door and combustion-powered models following in early 2025. All vehicles will be assembled at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada. Pricing details are expected to be announced closer to the launch date.
How do you feel about Dodge transitioning its legendary Charger into an EV? Share your thoughts on this bold new direction in the comments below.