Dodge Charger Daytona: Electric Muscle
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The muscle car is getting an electric makeover. Dodge is introducing the Charger Daytona, a fully electric vehicle that aims to retain the core elements of a classic muscle car: power and a commanding presence.
“We didn’t set out to design an EV first. We set out to design a muscle car first. The (Daytona R/T) has 496 horsepower, and we also have a 670-horsepower Scat Pack version, that does 0-60 in 3.3 seconds,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO.
The Charger Daytona’s design also pays homage to its heritage. Hints of the iconic second-generation Dodge Charger, produced from 1968-1970, are evident in the new model’s lines.
To address concerns about the absence of a traditional V8 rumble, Dodge has incorporated its “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust.” This system uses speakers located behind the rear bumper to simulate the sounds of a classic muscle car.
The Charger Daytona maintains other classic muscle car cues, including an old-school shifter on the center console. The R/T model has a starting price just over $60,000, while the more powerful Scat Pack version is closer to $70,000.
Recognizing that some muscle car enthusiasts may prefer a gasoline engine, Dodge plans to introduce a version with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, boasting over 500 horsepower.
“In the first year, we’ve got four powertrains, and two-doors or four doors on this vehicle, which will hopefully give everyone what they want,” McAlear stated. While the V8 may be on hiatus, Dodge hasn’t ruled out its eventual return.
So, if the idea of an electric muscle car piques your interest, the Dodge Charger Daytona may be worth a look.
