Why I’m excited for the Dodge Charger Daytona EV

Dodge has long been synonymous with muscle cars, roaring V8 engines and unmistakable presence on the road, and now the brand is stepping into the future with its first all-electric muscle car, the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV.

Spearheaded by the iconic Charger nameplate, this electric muscle car promises to reset popular notions of electric vehicles, ushering in a new era of performance and technology while maintaining the bold stance Dodge is known for.

The Charger Daytona features an all-electric 400-volt dual motor system, standard all-wheel drive and a mechanical limited-slip differential. It is also the first vehicle built on the Stellantis STLA large platform. Additionally, it offers performance-oriented driving features and stage upgrades designed to maintain and enhance the muscle car’s character. First, Dodge will offer two high-performance models, both of which qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit.

Pricing for the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV reflects its status as a premium performance vehicle. The base model, 496-horsepower R/T, starts at $59,595, making it competitively priced in the electric muscle car market. For those looking for more power and features, the 670-horsepower Daytona Scat Pack is available for $73,190, offering enhanced performance and additional luxury touches. These prices put the Charger Daytona EV in a higher price range, but also reflect the advanced technology, performance features and brand heritage that come with owning a Dodge muscle car.

10 Power supply configuration

The numbers are promising, but will they come to fruition?

The Charger Daytona EV is offered in multiple power configurations: The R/T entry-level model makes 455 horsepower, which can be increased to 496 horsepower and 404 pound-feet of torque with a factory-installed Direct Connection Stage 1 upgrade.

For those looking for more power, the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack comes standard with the Direct Connection Stage 2 upgrade, increasing output to 670 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.

These figures are impressive and rival the most powerful V8 engines of the past, but the real test is how these figures translate on the track and in everyday driving.

Additionally, Dodge plans to offer two internal combustion engine options later in the Charger Daytona rollout, including two versions of the 3.0L twin-turbo I-6 Hurricane engine: the 550 horsepower SIXPACK HO and the 420 horsepower SIXPACK SO.

9 Performance always available

Strip and street thrills

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The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV is expected to offer impressive performance, especially in acceleration. In its most powerful configuration, Dodge claims it will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. This will make it one of the quickest cars in its class and one of the fastest Dodges ever. But acceleration is only part of the story.

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Handling and driving dynamics will likely be closely scrutinized by enthusiasts, and the Charger Daytona EV’s published weight of about 5,838 pounds could be a double-edged sword: On the one hand, a lower center of gravity from the battery pack could help with stability and cornering.

On the other hand, a vehicle’s mass can affect agility and responsiveness, especially when compared to lighter, more traditional muscle cars.

8 But wait, there’s more!

Performance-boosting flavors

Speed ​​isn’t the only secret to the Charger Daytona EV, Dodge has equipped the vehicle with features that make it competitive on the track and stand out on the road.

One of the most talked about features is the Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust. Yes, that’s right – an exhaust for an electric vehicle. This innovative system uses acoustic chambers and amplifiers to create an exhaust sound that reaches 126 decibels, rivaling the roar of a Hellcat’s V8. It’s loud, it’s powerful, and it’s sure to let everyone know this is no ordinary EV.

In a move that feels almost surreal, Dodge has included features like one-pedal driving, regenerative braking and heated steering wheel paddle shifters to enhance the driving experience.

Additionally, Dodge has introduced “Active Vibration Enhancement,” a feature designed to give the feeling that the car has a vibrating V8 engine — more details on this feature are expected to be announced soon.

The driveline also features some synthetic driving enhancements. In a world where most electric vehicles are content with single-speed transmissions, the Charger Daytona EV dares to be different with its eRupt multi-speed transmission. The system simulates gear changes, delivering sharp, precise shifts that are said to make you feel more connected to the driving experience. Perhaps this is the car that satisfies Dominic Toretto’s insatiable need to shift.

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7 Competition-friendly features

Track and street performance

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The Charger Daytona EV comes loaded with competition-ready features, especially on Scat Pack models, designed to take performance to the next level with advanced drive modes and an enhanced Track package.

Next-generation Performance Dynamic Key Features

• PowerShot Mode: When enabled, provides an additional 40 horsepower for 15 seconds for improved acceleration.
• HIGH-PERFORMANCE BRAKES: Large 16-inch Brembo brakes with increased swept area provide excellent track performance and fade resistance.
• Brake-by-Wire eBoost: Intelligent braking system combines regenerative and foundational braking for optimal stopping power and feedback.
• STANGED WHEELS/TIRES: Fitted with 20-inch wheels and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3 tires tuned for maximum grip and stability.
• DUAL-VALVE SEMI-ACTIVE SUSPENSION: Adaptive damping suspension for improved body control and ride comfort.
• Drive Modes: Customize driving dynamics for different conditions with multiple modes including Auto, Eco, Sport, Wet/Snow, Track and Drag.
• Race Options: Customize your track and drag performance with features like Donut Mode, Drift Mode, Line Lock, Launch Control and Race Ready.
• Performance Page: Provides detailed performance metrics including timers, gauges, and propulsion system information.
• REINFORCED BODY STRUCTURE: Near-perfect weight distribution and increased rigidity improve handling, ride comfort and minimize cabin vibration.

6 design

A look back at the past, a glimpse into the future

The design of the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona pays homage to muscle car heritage while embracing modernity. The body maintains the classic Charger profile, but with edgy, futuristic lines that look like something straight out of a blockbuster sci-fi movie.

Notable design features include the R-wing, a front wing that is seamlessly integrated into the hood to direct airflow and improve downforce. Other elements such as widebody proportions and a hidden hatch design also complement the car’s unique look. The Charger Daytona’s design is unmistakably Dodge, but it also hints at the future of high-performance vehicles.

5 range

How far will it go?

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Range anxiety is a concern for many potential EV buyers. The Charger Daytona solves this problem with an impressive 100 kWh battery that can go up to 317 miles on a single charge. This range is suitable for both daily driving and medium-sized road trips, and offers the convenience of a traditional gas-powered vehicle. Drivers should expect reduced range if they hit the accelerator at Superman speeds, just like with their ICE counterparts.

4 Charging and the charging process

How much is your time worth?

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Charging is easy with Charger Daytona’s advanced charging capabilities. The vehicle supports fast charging up to 350 kW, adding up to 180 miles of range in just 15 minutes. For home charging, the vehicle is compatible with standard Level 2 chargers, making overnight charging convenient and hassle-free.

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3 Technology and Connectivity

Cutting edge or too complicated?

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The Charger Daytona EV is equipped with a host of modern connectivity features. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking ensure a safe and easy-to-drive experience. A customizable digital instrument cluster and large touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 seamlessly integrates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Uconnect 5 system provides real-time navigation updates, traffic information and over-the-air software updates. Multiple user profiles offer personalized settings for each driver for a customized experience. Upgrading to the Track package includes a Digital Drive Experience Recorder that lets you capture all the heated action on the track. But all this technology raises the question: is it making life easier on the road, or making driving more complicated at the expense of simplicity?

2 interior

Sporty and functional with a modern twist

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV’s interior blends modern comfort with muscle car tradition. The driver-focused cockpit takes inspiration from the iconic 1968 Charger, yet is undeniably modern. Features include a performance-oriented flat-top/flat-bottom steering wheel with push-button and remote start, pistol-grip shifter, paddle shifters and a Power Shot button for an instant boost of speed. Premium materials, such as optional Black Nappa leather or Demonic Red Nappa leather upholstery, add luxurious touches, while sporty high-back seats ensure both comfort and support during spirited drives.

High-tech features are seamlessly integrated, including wireless phone charging, nine-speaker Alpine audio with subwoofer and a customizable digital display. The cabin is illuminated by a 64-color attitude-adjusting lighting system that dynamically responds to the vehicle’s conditions.

Functionality is key, too, and the Charger Daytona EV offers a best-in-class 38.5 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded flat thanks to its “hidden hatch” design.

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