The electric revolution in the muscle car world just hit a speed bump—and Dodge is shifting gears back to gasoline. After months of lukewarm reception to the all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona, Stellantis has abruptly canceled the base EV R/T version, leaving only one electric Charger variant on sale. This retreat from its ambitious electric muscle car roadmap comes amid a larger change in the regulatory and market landscape in the U.S.
At the same time, Dodge is making a decisive move to focus on gas-powered Chargers, reviving hopes for combustion-engine enthusiasts—and perhaps even hinting at the return of a V8.
Why the Dodge Charger EV R/T Was Pulled So Quickly
The Dodge Charger Daytona R/T was positioned as the brand’s gateway into an electric muscle car future. While its styling and tech were bold, sales forecasts fell flat, and the U.S. government’s plan to roll back EV incentives and loosen emissions rules has further reduced its appeal.
According to insiders, including Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions, Dodge realized the EV Charger’s appeal did not align with its core market. “It’s a great product, but the market for that vehicle wants gas-powered engines,” Fiorani noted.
The decision to cancel the R/T trim reflects a pragmatic shift toward what Dodge knows best—performance-focused internal combustion vehicles.
The 2025 Dodge Charger Gas Models: Twin-Turbo Muscle
Instead of waiting for the EV tide to turn, Dodge is ramping up production of its 2025 gas-powered Chargers, both in two-door and four-door formats, at its Windsor Assembly Plant in Canada.
These new models will drop the classic V8—at least for now—in favor of a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. While some fans lament the V8’s absence, this engine still packs serious performance and improved efficiency.
Production of the ICE Charger is expected to accelerate rapidly:
- Quadruple-digit two-door production numbers by September
- Full-scale four-door production by late Q3 2025
This return to form has also prompted a major operational shift at the Windsor factory, which will restart two full shifts beginning June 23, after operating under a single shift for an extended period.
Read Also : Ram Shakes Up the Industry with New 10-Year Powertrain Warranty for 2026 Trucks
Could the V8 Still Return?
One of the hottest questions in the Dodge community is: Will the HEMI V8 return?
There are persistent rumors that Dodge is exploring how to fit a V8 into the STLA Large platform used by the new Charger. While no production plans have been confirmed, prototypes with a V8 soundtrack have reportedly been spotted in testing.
Even Fiorani acknowledges that a V8 could be technically feasible: “They’re definitely evaluating it, and with RAM bringing back the HEMI, it wouldn’t be shocking if Dodge followed suit.”
A V8 option would be a game-changer—not just for nostalgic fans, but also for fleet buyers and performance purists who still crave the roar of old-school American muscle.
Context: Why Dodge’s Pivot Matters
Dodge’s shift reflects broader industry signals:
- EV adoption is slowing, especially in performance segments.
- Changing U.S. emissions policies allow automakers to keep ICE models longer.
- Traditional car buyers—especially muscle car fans—aren’t ready to go fully electric.
This pivot also aligns with the muscle car identity Dodge has built over decades. Offering high-output six-cylinders and possibly reviving the V8 keeps Dodge relevant in the performance world while avoiding full commitment to an EV strategy that hasn’t resonated with its fanbase.
Specs: 2025 Dodge Charger Gas Model (Confirmed)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-Six |
| Expected Power Output | TBD (Est. 400–500+ hp depending on trim) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD options |
| Body Styles | Two-door and Four-door |
| Platform | STLA Large |
| Factory | Windsor Assembly Plant (Canada) |
| Production Start (2-door) | Summer 2025 |
| Production Start (4-door) | Q3 2025 |
Conclusion: Dodge Isn’t Giving Up on Gas—Yet
The Dodge Charger gas-powered 2025 lineup could be the brand’s lifeline after a disappointing start for the EV version. With the electric R/T now off the table, Dodge is leaning into what it does best: bold, loud, and fast muscle cars powered by internal combustion.
Whether a V8 returns or not, the pivot back to gas proves Dodge is listening to its market, adjusting to political realities, and willing to keep muscle alive—even if it’s turbocharged instead of naturally aspirated.
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