Dodge Fast Tracks Gas-Powered Charger Production Because Of Demand

Photo: Dodge

Dodge apparently knows not many folks are terribly excited about its upcoming electric Charger coupe and sedan, so it’s reportedly pushing up the release date of the gas-powered Charger Sixpack by five months. It was originally slated to debut in late 2025, but it’s now looking like they’ll be hitting the dealers in early Summer.

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The decision is being made as Dodge responds to consumer demand for performance-oriented internal combustion-powered musince cars, according to Mopar Insiders. The move comes despite the fact Dodge is attempting to push a fully electric Charger Daytona lineup.

Here’s why this is happening (spoiler: it’s probably because of the election), according to Mopar Insiders:

Dodge’s choice to accelerate the launch of its ICE Charger SIXPACK models reflects a strategic response to both shifting U.S. regulatory priorities and strong consumer demand for traditional ICE power. With President-Elect Donald Trump indicating plans to re-evaluate current electric vehicle (EV) mandates and emissions policies, automakers like Dodge now have a chance to adjust their strategies. This shift offers Dodge greater freedom to prioritize its high-performance ICE lineup alongside its EVs, especially given the enduring appeal of ICE muscle cars among enthusiasts.

Originally, Dodge’s plan was to introduce the all-electric Charger Daytona First Editions first, followed by the Sixpack in the first quarter of 2025. Not long after, the Sixpack launch was punished back to late 2025. Demand, changing priorities and a whole new political world means Dodge decided to bring the Sixpack to market sooner.

It’s still not exactly clear if people who yearn for a muscle car will embrace the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Hurricane straight-six engine that is going to power the Charger Sixpack. Power won’t be an issue with the standard-output variant producing 420 horsepower and the high-output variant making up to 550 horsepower (for reference, the 6.4-liter Scatpack motor produced 485 horsepower), but I’m still not convinced muscle car enthusiasts will be OK with A non-V8 exhaust note. What do I know?

When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Stellantis said, “[W]e have not made any new announcements regarding future product plans.” We shall see.