Dodge Charger Daytona EV: Bringing Muscle Car Sound to Electric Performance

Dodge is pioneering a new approach to preserve the iconic auditory thrill traditionally associated with muscle cars, even as it transitions to electric powertrains.

The excitement of driving a performance car has long been tied to the deep, powerful roar of a V-8 engine. For many enthusiasts, this sound is as essential as speed itself. However, most electric vehicles lack this visceral experience, prompting Dodge to innovate with technology that keeps the legendary muscle car experience alive.

The newly redesigned Dodge Charger, unveiled in March, no longer offers a factory V-8 option. Instead, buyers can choose between an electric powertrain or a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6, with Dodge ensuring that the thrilling exhaust note remains a key part of the driving experience.

The Charger Daytona EV features Dodge’s innovative Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system. Using speakers mounted under the vehicle and amplified by resonators, it mimics the function of a traditional muffler to produce a sound profile that Dodge claims rivals the "Hellcat levels" of their high-performance V-8 engines.

Enhanced by internal electronics, the system generates a convincing V-8-like roar and can even simulate engine vibrations. For a quieter experience, it also includes a “stealth mode,” silencing the sound when desired.

Early versions of the Fratzonic system debuted in the 2022 Charger Daytona SRT concept and received mixed feedback. Recent social media previews, however, highlight significant improvements, with enthusiasts praising its accurate replication of the classic V-8 exhaust note.

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Traditional V-8 enthusiasts may still wonder whether the electric Charger can satisfy their cravings. With Stellantis phasing out factory V-8s across the lineup, a stock V-8 won’t be available in the new Charger. However, crate engines remain an option, allowing for aftermarket swaps for those wanting to combine classic power with modern EV technology.

As the automotive world moves toward electrification, Dodge’s Charger Daytona EV demonstrates that electric vehicles can retain the soul of a muscle car. By blending the iconic V-8 sound with cutting-edge electric performance, Dodge may set a new standard for electric muscle cars—bridging the gap between nostalgia and innovation.