When Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis first discussed the release of an “American eMuscle” last year, he said the company’s vehicle will “tear up the streets, not the planet.” Now the Stellantis brand has revealed what Kuniskis meant by that. It has unveiled the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept, which looks like a futuristic version of its gas-powered Challenger and Charger muscle cars. While it’s still just a concept at this point and could change hugely by the time of release, a spokesperson told TechCrunch that “it’s very close to production.”
The two-door electric Dodge Charger is powered by the new 800V Banshee propulsion system. In its announcement, Dodge says the Banshee is more powerful than the engine of a Hellcat, which is already a high-performance variant of the Challenger. And unlike other electric vehicles that barely make any noise, the all-electric Charger was designed to be loud, just like its gas-powered counterparts. The company has indeed fitted the vehicle with an exhaust, although it doesn’t need one and the only thing it emits is noise. “The Charger Daytona SRT Concept cranks out a 126 dB roar that rivals the SRT Hellcat,” Dodge wrote in its announcement. This is made possible by passing the sounds of the electric vehicle through an amplifier and a voice chamber. You can hear how it sounds in the following video from minute 2:20.
On the outside, the vehicle features a familiar design with modern tweaks that make it more aerodynamic. For example, the “R-Wing” on the front end has a pass-through form factor that allows air to flow through and increases downforce. Inside, you’ll find modern conveniences including a 12.3-inch center screen, an 8×3-inch head-up display that shows additional vehicle information, and a PowerShot button on the steering wheel that gives the vehicle a boost in acceleration .
Dodge has yet to announce pricing for the Charger Daytona, but the company previously said it is targeting a 2024 release date for its first American eMuscle. By the time it arrives, the brand would have already discontinued its gas-powered Challenger and Charger muscle cars. Kuniskis said in a statement:
“Dodge is about muscle, attitude and performance, and the brand is carrying that chip on its shoulder and into the BEV segment through a concept of patents, innovation and performance that embodies the electrified muscle of tomorrow. The Charger Daytona SRT Concept can do more than just drive the auto show circuit, it can cover a lightning-fast quarter mile, and when it comes to product cycles it outperforms Darwin. The Charger Daytona not only defines where Dodge’s journey is headed, he will also redefine American muscle power. “
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