Dodge's Electric Dreams: The End of Charger Daytona R/T

image
Dodge's Electric Dreams: The End of Charger Daytona R/T - Image for illustration purposes only
05-16-2025motortrend
Dodge's electric ambitions hit a bump in the road, as the automaker announces the discontinuation of its entry-level all-electric Charger Daytona R/T for the 2026 model year. Enthusiasm for this model has waned, prompting Dodge's parent company, Stellantis, to revise its lineup strategy.

No More Charger Daytona R/T

Starting in 2026, the Charger Daytona R/T will be absent from Dodge's offerings. Initially introduced as a 2025 model in a two-door form, the future of a four-door version remains uncertain. With its departure, only the Charger Daytona Scat Pack will remain in Dodge's electrified lineup.

- The reasons for the R/T's discontinuation include:
- Low sales figures
- Difficulty competing with higher-performance models
- U.S. tariffs
- Despite its $61,590 price tag, a less-featured model was available for $47,000 with tax credits.
- The more powerful Scat Pack, boasting 670 hp, overshadows the R/T's 496 hp, even at similar price points.

Stellantis' Delays and Refocused Efforts

Stellantis' electric portfolio faces challenges as other projected launches are rescheduled.

- Delayed Models:
- Ram 1500 REV: Now expected in summer 2027.
- Ramcharger EREV: Postponed to early 2026.

Gas-Powered Comebacks

As electrified options falter, Dodge and Ram are reportedly considering a return to traditional powertrains, possibly reviving the Hemi V-8. Currently, only the Durango SUV offers a V-8 engine, but it might be extended to models like the Charger and Ram 1500.

Summary

Despite initial ambitions, Dodge will not continue with the Charger Daytona R/T into 2026 due to lackluster sales and competitive pricing issues. Instead, Stellantis is reevaluating its electric strategy while hinting at bringing back popular gas-powered engines.

What Others Are Saying...

No comments yet