The Dodge Charger Daytona EV represents a bold leap into the future for one of America’s most iconic muscle car brands. Known for its rich history of powerful V8 engines, aggressive styling, and unapologetic performance, Dodge has taken a daring step by introducing an all-electric version of its legendary Charger. Launched in 2024, the Charger Daytona EV is not just an electric vehicle (EV); it’s a statement that muscle cars can evolve without losing their soul. This blog dives deep into every aspect of the Dodge Charger Daytona EV, from its design and performance to its technology, driving experience, and what it means for the future of automotive performance.
A New Era for Muscle Cars
For decades, Dodge has been synonymous with raw, unfiltered power, epitomized by models like the Charger Hellcat and Challenger Demon, both powered by monstrous supercharged Hemi V8 engines. However, as the automotive industry shifts toward electrification—driven by environmental regulations, consumer demand, and technological advancements—Dodge faced a pivotal challenge: how to preserve the essence of a muscle car in an electric future. The Charger Daytona EV is the answer, blending nostalgic design cues with cutting-edge electric performance.
The Charger Daytona nameplate pays homage to the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, a legendary NASCAR homologation special known for its aerodynamic prowess and high-speed dominance. By reviving this name for its first electric muscle car, Dodge signals its intent to honor its heritage while embracing innovation. But does it succeed? Let’s explore.
Design: Retro Meets Futuristic
The Dodge Charger Daytona EV is a visual masterpiece, seamlessly blending retro-inspired styling with modern, futuristic elements. Unlike many EVs that adopt a sleek, aerodynamic “appliance-like” design, the Charger Daytona EV retains the aggressive, muscular stance that defines a muscle car.
Exterior Styling
- Classic Proportions, Modern Execution: The Charger Daytona EV features a long hood, wide stance, and low profile, reminiscent of the second-generation Charger (1968–1970). Its three-box design (distinct hood, cabin, and trunk areas) is a nod to classic muscle cars, but the execution is thoroughly modern, with clean lines and a sculpted body.
- Aerodynamic Features: While the Daytona EV doesn’t need a massive grille for engine cooling, it incorporates a functional “R-Wing” air diffuser on the hood, inspired by the original Daytona’s aerodynamic nose. This feature channels air over the vehicle, reducing drag and improving efficiency, all while adding a menacing aesthetic.
- Widebody Stance: At nearly 80 inches wide (without mirrors), the Charger Daytona EV is as wide as legally allowed without requiring additional marker lamps. This widebody design not only enhances stability and grip but also reinforces its muscular presence on the road.
- Lighting and Details: Full-width LED taillights and sleek headlights give the Daytona EV a modern flair, while the Fratzog logo—a retro-inspired triangular badge from Dodge’s past—anchors the front grille, symbolizing the brand’s electrified future.
Body Styles
The Charger Daytona EV is available in two body styles, a strategic move by Dodge to appeal to a broader audience:
- Two-Door Coupe: Launched in 2024, the two-door coupe replaces the outgoing Dodge Challenger, offering a sporty, classic muscle car silhouette.
- Four-Door Sedan: Introduced in 2025, the four-door sedan adds practicality while retaining the aggressive styling, making it a spiritual successor to the previous Charger sedan.
Both body styles feature a hatchback design, a departure from traditional trunk lids, providing significantly more cargo space (up to 644 liters) and versatility compared to their predecessors.
Interior Design
Inside, the Charger Daytona EV combines retro-inspired elements with modern technology, creating a driver-focused cockpit that balances performance and comfort.
- Retro Touches: The interior features a pistol-grip shifter, a throwback to classic Dodge muscle cars, wrapped in leather for a premium feel. Ambient lighting and crosshatched patterns on the door panels add a touch of nostalgia.
- Modern Amenities: The cabin is dominated by dual screens—a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen running Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 system and a configurable digital instrument cluster that can expand to 16 inches. These screens provide access to performance metrics, EV-specific data (like battery range and charging status), and entertainment options, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Spaciousness: Thanks to its long wheelbase (121 inches) and hatchback design, the Daytona EV offers ample rear legroom and cargo space, making it surprisingly practical for a performance car. The rear seats fold down, further enhancing utility.
- Materials and Comfort: The interior is a significant step up from previous Dodge models, with high-quality materials like leatherette (standard), optional leather and suede, and even carbon fiber accents available. The seats are supportive, with optional electronically adjustable bolsters for track driving, though some critics note the bolsters may be too wide for smaller drivers.
Powertrain and Performance: Muscle Meets Electricity
The heart of the Dodge Charger Daytona EV is its electric powertrain, built on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform—a versatile architecture designed to accommodate electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engines. This multi-energy approach ensures Dodge can adapt to market demands, offering flexibility in an era where EV adoption varies by region.
Powertrain Specs
The Charger Daytona EV is powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system, with a 93.9-kWh (usable) nickel-cobalt-aluminum battery pack providing the juice. It operates on a 400-volt architecture, which, while not as advanced as the 800-volt systems found in some competitors (like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N), delivers impressive performance tailored for muscle car enthusiasts.
Two trims are available at launch:
- Charger Daytona R/T:
- Power Output: 456 hp (496 hp with PowerShot)
- Torque: 404 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 134 mph
- EPA Estimated Range: 308 miles
- Charger Daytona Scat Pack:
- Power Output: 630 hp (670 hp with PowerShot)
- Torque: 627 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
- Top Speed: 137 mph
EPA Estimated Range: 241 mile
PowerShot Feature
A standout feature is the PowerShot button on the steering wheel, which provides a 15-second burst of additional power—40 hp for the R/T and 80 hp for the Scat Pack. This feature, akin to a nitrous boost in traditional muscle cars, allows the Daytona EV to achieve its maximum quoted power figures, enhancing its dragstrip credentials.
Performance Features
Dodge has gone to great lengths to ensure the Charger Daytona EV delivers the visceral, engaging driving experience muscle car fans expect:
- Drive Modes: Multiple performance-focused drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, Track, Drag) adjust throttle response, steering feel, suspension stiffness, and even the synthetic exhaust sound.
- Track Package: Standard on the Scat Pack, the Track Package includes 20-inch wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires (305/35ZR front, 325/35ZR rear), six-piston Brembo brakes with 16-inch rotors, and adaptive dampers for improved handling.
- Drift and Donut Modes: Exclusive to the Scat Pack, these modes send more torque to the rear wheels, enabling tail-out slides and tire-smoking donuts, preserving the hooligan spirit of muscle cars.
- Line Lock and Launch Control: These features allow for burnouts (though some testers note the Daytona EV struggles to sustain burnouts due to its all-wheel-drive setup) and optimized dragstrip launches, respectively.
- Regenerative Braking: Three levels of regenerative braking (0.1g, 0.2g, and 0.3g) are adjustable via paddle shifters, though the system doesn’t offer true one-pedal driving, as deceleration fades below 7 mph, requiring the driver to use the brake pedal to stop.
Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust
One of the most controversial and innovative features of the Charger Daytona EV is its “Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust,” a synthetic sound system designed to mimic the roar of a V8 engine. Using high-efficiency transducers, passive radiators, and a 600-watt amplifier, the system emits sound through dual exhaust-like outlets at the rear, reaching up to 126 decibels—equivalent to a Hellcat at full throttle.
- Why It Exists: Dodge understands that muscle cars are as much about theater as they are about performance. The Fratzonic system ensures the Daytona EV announces its presence with the same bravado as its gas-powered predecessors, appealing to enthusiasts who crave auditory drama.
- How It Works: The sound is tailored to different drive modes, with distinct signatures for regular driving, sport, track, and drag. It even mimics engine idle and gear shifts, though some critics argue it lacks the depth and richness of a real V8.
- Reception: Opinions are divided. Some praise Dodge for preserving the muscle car experience, while others find the synthetic sound artificial and unnecessary, likening it to a teenager blasting engine noises through a speaker. Fortunately, drivers can turn it off for a quieter, stealthier experience.
Driving Experience: Muscle Car Meets EV Refinement
The Charger Daytona EV is not just about straight-line speed; it’s designed to deliver a complete muscle car experience while offering the refinement and efficiency of an electric vehicle. Here’s how it performs across different scenarios:
On the Road
- Acceleration: The instant torque of the electric motors provides breathtaking acceleration, especially in the Scat Pack, which rivals the performance of the outgoing Charger Hellcat. The 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds is impressive, though some competitors, like the Tesla Model 3 Performance, are quicker (3.0 seconds).
- Ride Quality: Despite its performance focus, the Daytona EV is surprisingly comfortable on the road. The adaptive dampers (standard on Scat Pack, optional on R/T) smooth out rough pavement, and the cabin is remarkably quiet when the Fratzonic exhaust is turned off, thanks to excellent sound insulation.
- Handling: At nearly 6,000 pounds, the Daytona EV is heavy, but its wide stance, low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery), and all-wheel-drive system make it surprisingly nimble. The steering is responsive, and the car feels planted in corners, though it can’t match the agility of lighter sports cars or even some high-performance EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
On the Track
- Dragstrip: The Daytona EV shines on the dragstrip, with launch control and all-wheel drive ensuring minimal wheelspin. Dodge claims a quarter-mile time of 11.5 seconds for the Scat Pack, though some testers struggled to achieve this due to the car’s weight and conservative throttle mapping.
- Circuit: On a road course, the Daytona EV is competent but not exceptional. The Track Package improves handling with sticky tires and adaptive suspension, but the car’s mass is evident when changing direction quickly. It’s more of a grand tourer than a track-focused sports car, prioritizing straight-line speed over cornering prowess.
Off the Beaten Path
While not designed for off-road use, the Daytona EV’s all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance make it capable of handling light gravel or snow, adding a layer of versatility not found in traditional muscle cars.
Range, Charging and Efficiency
For many potential EV buyers, range and charging capabilities are critical considerations. Here’s how the Charger Daytona EV stacks up:
Range
- R/T: Up to 308 miles (EPA estimated)
- Scat Pack: Up to 241 miles (EPA estimated)
The range is respectable but not class-leading, especially for the Scat Pack, which sacrifices efficiency for performance. Adding the optional sticky tires further reduces range to 268 miles (R/T) and 216 miles (Scat Pack). For comparison, the Tesla Model 3 Performance offers over 300 miles of range, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N manages 221 miles despite similar performance credentials.
Charging
- Fast Charging: The Daytona EV supports a maximum charging rate of 183 kW on a 350-kW DC fast charger, allowing it to charge from 20% to 80% in about 27 minutes. While this is decent, it lags behind competitors with 800-volt architectures, which can charge faster (e.g., the Ioniq 5 N can charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes).
- Home Charging: Dodge offers buyers a choice between a Level 2 home charger (which may require professional installation) or $600 in charging credits through its Free2Move program, providing access to public charging networks like ChargePoint, FLO, and EVgo.
- Future Plans: Starting in 2026, Dodge will transition the Charger Daytona EV to the NACS (Tesla-style) charging standard, improving access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Efficiency
Efficiency is not the Daytona EV’s primary focus—Dodge has openly stated it prioritizes performance over economy. This is evident in its range figures, which are lower than those of more efficiency-focused EVs. However, the regenerative braking system helps recoup some energy, and the front motor disconnect feature improves efficiency by allowing rear-wheel-drive operation in certain conditions.
Technology and Features
The Charger Daytona EV is packed with technology, blending performance-oriented features with modern convenience and safety systems.
Infotainment and Connectivity
- Uconnect 5: The 12.3-inch touchscreen runs Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 system, praised for its intuitive interface, quick response, and seamless integration of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Performance Pages: A carryover from gas-powered Dodge models, Performance Pages display metrics like 0-60 times, quarter-mile times, g-forces, and more, allowing drivers to track their performance.
- EV Pages: New for the Daytona EV, EV Pages provide real-time data on battery charge, range, efficiency, and charging status.
- Driver Experience Recorder: An optional feature that uses external cameras to record track sessions, creating driver videos for later review.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Charger Daytona EV comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features, including:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Standard lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
- Optional “vulnerable road users” detection, a system designed to protect pedestrians and cyclists
- Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system
While crash-test results from the NHTSA and IIHS are not yet available, the Daytona EV’s robust safety features suggest it will perform well in safety evaluations.
Warranty
The Charger Daytona EV is backed by a competitive warranty:
- Limited Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Battery Warranty: Typically 8 years or 100,000 miles (standard for EVs, though exact terms may vary by region)
Pricing and Trims
The Charger Daytona EV is not cheap, but it offers significant performance for the price, especially compared to its gas-powered predecessors.
Pricing
- Charger Daytona R/T: Starting at $61,590 (including $1,995 destination charge)
- Charger Daytona Scat Pack: Starting at $75,190 (including $1,995 destination charge)
Both trims qualify for a $7,500 federal EV tax credit when leased, potentially reducing the effective cost. Additional options, like the Track Package, Sun & Sound package (with a premium audio system and glass roof), and Plus Group (adding luxury features), can push the price of a fully loaded Scat Pack to over $80,000.
Value Proposition
The Daytona EV is priced competitively against other high-performance EVs, such as the Tesla Model 3 Performance ($55,000, quicker but less engaging) and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N ($67,500, similar performance but less range). It also undercuts the outgoing Charger Hellcat by about $10,000 while offering comparable performance, making it an attractive option for muscle car enthusiasts open to electrification.
Competition: How Does It Stack up?
The Charger Daytona EV enters a growing field of high-performance EVs, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here’s how it compares to key competitors:
Tesla Model 3 Performance
- Price: $55,000
- Power: 510 hp
- 0-60 mph: 3.0 seconds
- Range: 315 miles
- Pros: Quicker acceleration, longer range, access to Tesla’s Supercharger network
- Cons: Lacks the visceral engagement and styling of a muscle car, build quality concerns
- Price: $67,500
- Power: 641 hp
- 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
- Range: 221 miles
- Pros: Exceptional handling, synthetic sound system, faster charging (800-volt architecture)
- Cons: Shorter range, less distinctive styling
- Price: $60,000
- Power: 480 hp
- 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds
- Range: 280 miles
- Pros: Decent range, Mustang branding
- Cons: Lacks the engagement and handling sharpness of the Daytona EV, crossover form factor
The Charger Daytona EV stands out for its unique blend of muscle car heritage, aggressive styling, and performance, though it sacrifices some efficiency and charging speed compared to rivals.
The Future: What’s Next for the Charger Daytona EV?
Dodge has big plans for the Charger lineup, ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.
Upcoming Variants
- SRT Banshee: Slated for 2026, the SRT Banshee will be the range-topping electric Charger, promising even more power (rumored to exceed 800 hp) and performance enhancements. It may also feature solid-state battery technology, which could improve range, durability, and charging speed.
Gas-Powered Charger Sixpack: For those not ready to go electric, Dodge will introduce a gas-powered Charger in 2025, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six “Hurricane” engine, available in two outputs (420 hp and 550 hp). This model will share the same STLA Large platform, ensuring similar styling and features
Platform Flexibility
The STLA Large platform’s multi-energy design is a strategic advantage for Dodge, allowing it to offer electric, hybrid, and gas-powered variants of the Charger. This flexibility ensures Dodge can cater to diverse markets, from EV-friendly regions like California to fossil fuel-preferring areas like the Plains states.
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Ownership Experience: Living with the Charger Daytona EV
- Tires: The high-performance tires, especially on the Scat Pack with the Track Package, are prone to wear, particularly if the car is used for aggressive driving or track sessions. Replacement costs for these large, sticky tires can be significant.
- Brakes: While regenerative braking reduces wear on the brake pads, the massive Brembo brakes on the Scat Pack will still require periodic maintenance, especially under heavy use.
- Battery Health: The battery pack is warranted for 8 years or 100,000 miles, but its long-term durability will depend on factors like charging habits, climate, and driving style. Dodge has not yet released detailed information on battery degradation, but early data from other Stellantis EVs suggests competitive performance in this area.
- Fuel Savings: With electricity typically cheaper than gasoline, especially in regions with low electricity rates, the Daytona EV offers significant savings over a gas-powered muscle car like the Charger Hellcat, which averages 15 mpg combined. Based on EPA estimates, the R/T trim consumes approximately 34 kWh per 100 miles, translating to an energy cost of about $4.50 per 100 miles (assuming $0.13 per kWh, the U.S. average). In contrast, a Hellcat would cost around $15 per 100 miles at $3.50 per gallon.
- Tax Incentives: The $7,500 federal EV tax credit (available when leasing) can offset the initial cost, though buyers should check eligibility based on income and other factors. Some states also offer additional EV incentives, such as rebates or HOV lane access.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the Daytona EV may be higher than for a typical sedan due to its performance credentials and repair costs, particularly for the battery pack and advanced electronics.
- Public Charging: Through its Free2Move partnership, Dodge provides access to networks like ChargePoint, FLO, and EVgo, ensuring owners can find chargers on road trips. Starting in 2026, the transition to the NACS (Tesla-style) connector will further expand access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, one of the most reliable and widespread charging networks in the U.S.
- Home Charging: The included Level 2 home charger (or $600 in charging credits) encourages owners to set up a convenient home charging solution. A full charge at home takes about 8–10 hours on a 240-volt Level 2 charger, making overnight charging practical for most owners.
- Charging Experience: Early reviews suggest the Daytona EV’s charging interface is user-friendly, with clear instructions displayed on the infotainment screen. However, the 400-volt architecture means it doesn’t charge as quickly as some competitors, which could be a drawback for frequent long-distance travelers.