The Dodge Charger Daytona EV marks a radical shift for the iconic muscle car, ditching the traditional V-8 roar for an all-electric powertrain. While it retains the Charger’s aggressive styling and performance intent, this new iteration delivers 670 horsepower through dual electric motors, aiming to preserve the spirit of raw speed while embracing zero-emission technology.
Power and Performance: Electric Muscle
The 2027 Charger Daytona features a dual-motor setup – one motor powering the front wheels and another driving the rear – providing standard all-wheel drive. The 94-kWh battery pack offers a maximum output of 670 horsepower when utilizing the Power Shot boost function for 10 seconds, making it quicker off the line than its gas-powered predecessors. Dodge has also integrated performance features like Donut Mode, Drift Mode, Line Lock, and launch control. While the synthetic exhaust soundtrack attempts to mimic the visceral rumble of a V-8, it falls short of the real thing (though thankfully, it can be disabled).
Key Performance Numbers:
– 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
– Combined Horsepower: 670 hp
– Combined Torque: 627 lb-ft
Charging and Range: Adapting to the Future
The Charger Daytona adopts the North American Charging System (NACS) as standard, ensuring compatibility with Tesla Supercharging stations, and includes a J1772 to NACS adapter for broader charging options. With a peak charge rate of 183 kW, the battery can be recharged from 20% to 80% in just over 27 minutes using a Level 3 DC CCS fast charger. However, the maximum range remains limited to 267 miles, which is less than some competitors like the Lucid Air Touring AWD (rated for 136 MPGe city and 132 MPGe highway).
Interior and Design: Retro Meets Electric
The interior blends retro styling cues with modern tech. The signature pistol-grip shifter, a nod to the Charger’s heritage, is prominently featured. Heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen running Chrysler’s Uconnect 5 infotainment system are standard. While the materials don’t always feel premium, the cabin offers practical space, with 27 cubic feet of cargo room in the hatchback version and a surprisingly accommodating rear seat.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The Scat Pack Coupe is the recommended trim, offering the most aggressive styling at a slightly lower price point than the sedan. The base price starts at $78,680, with fully equipped models exceeding $86,000.
What This Means: The End of an Era, The Start of Another
The 2027 Dodge Charger Daytona EV is a bold attempt to reconcile muscle car tradition with the demands of an electric future. It delivers impressive performance but sacrifices some of the visceral experience that defined earlier Chargers. As automakers increasingly pivot toward electrification, the Daytona represents a pivotal moment: the end of the V-8 era and the beginning of a new chapter for American muscle.
