Dodge is ramping up production of its gas-powered Charger models at the Windsor Assembly Plant, a move that comes after the electric version of the vehicle failed to gain significant traction in the market. Starting June 23, the Canadian plant will operate on two full-time shifts again, with a planned two-week shutdown in August.
Production Ramp-Up
The decision to increase production of the gas-powered Charger, which features a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, is seen as a strategic response to changing market conditions and regulatory environment. Sam Fiorani from AutoForecast Solutions predicts that production of the two-door ICE Charger will reach “quadruple digits” by September, while the four-door version is expected to hit full volume later in the third quarter.
Market Response to Electric Charger
The electric Charger Daytona, despite being a new and innovative model, has not been well received by the market. The base R/T version has already been discontinued, leaving only one electric Charger variant available. This poor reception, combined with the U.S. administration’s plans to reduce EV incentives and relax emissions regulations, has made the timing of the electric Charger’s launch particularly challenging.
Future Possibilities: V8 Engine
There’s speculation about the potential return of a V8 engine for the Charger. While Dodge is reportedly exploring the possibility of fitting a Hemi engine into the Charger’s STLA Large platform, there’s no confirmation on whether this will actually happen. Recent sightings of a potential V8 prototype have fueled rumors, but nothing has been officially confirmed. The possibility of a V8 engine would likely be well-received by traditional muscle car enthusiasts who prefer the sound and performance of a big engine.
