Dodge did not step quietly into the world of electric vehicles. We mean literally, because the Dodge Charger Daytona Concept EV you see here actually has an exhaust system. It’s called the Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust, though it’s not entirely clear if it’s driven by the Banshee powertrain. Fratzonic? Banshee? Obviously, Dodge is working hard to build its electric future as something quite different from the competition.
And the future is what we see here. Ironically, Dodge went to great lengths to help its illustrious muscle car past, as this Daytona Charger concept car was an ode to classic two-door models from 1968 to 1970. We’ll start with the design, as there are plenty of retro influences to appreciate and Dodge doesn’t offer any. information regarding range, speed, or performance, apart from saying this electric concept is faster than the Hellcat.
So let’s zoom in on the wide face and flat hood concept, which is clearly inspired by the old Charger. But there’s a big change in the game, as the hood isn’t actually flat at all. It’s highly scalloped, allowing air through the grille while also passing through what Dodge calls the R-Wing. Yes, the big wings on this Daytona Charger are actually in frontincrease downforce and aerodynamic performance.
The Charger effect is more classic on the doors, although the flush door handles are a very modern touch. You won’t find the fastback rear clip with the trunk, however. A hatchback opens to reveal ample space which, with the rear seats folded, gives this muscle car “unexpected utility and storage capacity.” You’ll also notice the odd triangular-shaped badge on the retro-style taillight assembly – that’s the Fratzog badge, originally used on Dodge vehicles through the ’60s and ’70s with no particular meaning. Now, it’s a fusion of the automaker’s past performance with an electric future.
You might also notice the Hellcat badge flashing on the fender, but those aren’t Hellcats. They are the Banshees, because that is what powers the Charger Daytona SRT Concept. Dodge doesn’t give any details about this electric powertrain, except to say it’s an 800V system and drives all four wheels. There is also a transmission in play called erupt offers multiple speeds with different shift points and buttons to push short shots of extra power. How much power? What is the speed? Dodge didn’t speak, but the company promised an “electro-mechanical transfer experience” that befits the brand.
That’s also the reason behind the Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust, and yes, that’s the actual name Dodge uses. It is billed as the industry’s first system to push “performance sound through an amplifier and tuning chamber located at the rear of the vehicle.” What is the true nature of the sound? Again, that’s something Dodge hasn’t explained yet, but we’ve asked for a better answer outright.
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By definition, exhaust in this context it is some measure of gas or air expelled from the engine. Capturing some of the sound of an electric motor roaring and amplifying it with a few tweaks can be cool. But as it is now, Fratzonic Chamber Exhaust sounds like a sweet way to describe a big bass cannon that makes a made-to-order V8 sound. In any case, the sound reaches 126 dB, which seems to be as loud as the Hellcat V8 under throttle. We’d really jump in with an update if Dodge responded with details about this odd system.
Things aren’t too outlandish inside, where you’ll find a very sporty interior that offers a rather conventional layout. The 12.3-inch center screen tilts toward the driver, with a 16-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch heads-up display that provides important vehicle information. The classic Charger’s wide grille is also a theme for the interior trim, as can be seen in the illumination texture that wraps around the cockpit. The large center console is home to a shift handle reminiscent of a pistol grip lever shifter.
It’s also not a completely digital affair. In addition to the shifter, there are tactile controls for climate settings under the touchscreen. Features on the SRT steering wheel include radio functionality and fingertip control of the Daytona Charger’s four drive modes – Auto, Sport, Track and Drag. The panoramic roof lets in plenty of light for the driver and three passengers.
So now for the big question. Are we looking at a near-production vehicle or an abstract concept? That’s also unknown at this point, though it’s safe to assume at least some aspects of the Daytona SRT Charger will come back to life. And with the current generation Charger and Challenger ending production in December 2023, it could be sooner than later. Expect more information on Dodge’s electric future in the coming months.
