With its Hornet compact crossover, the American performance brand is set to compete in the high-octane world of Nitrocross, specifically in the Group E electric class.
Dodge's entry into Nitrocross will be the Hornet R/T FC1-X, a race-ready version that shares visual similarities with the road-going Hornet but is built on the advanced FC1-X chassis used by all Group E teams. This class, created by rally legend and Gymkhana star Travis Pastrana, focuses exclusively on electric vehicles and has been in action since 2022.
Starting with the 2024-2025 season, Dodge will partner with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing (DDR) to compete in this electrifying series. The team will field four Hornet R/T FC1-X cars, driven by an impressive roster of talent: Andres Bakkerud, Lia Block, Robin Larsson, and Fraser McConnell.
Power and Performance: Electrifying the Track
The FC1-X chassis features cutting-edge technology, with four axial flux electric motors one for each wheel delivering an astounding 1,072 horsepower. This allows the Hornet R/T FC1-X to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.4 seconds, producing up to 2 g of force during acceleration.
The 2024-2025 season will feature 10 events in five locations, starting on September 7 at Virginia's Richmond Raceway.
The Road-Going Dodge Hornet: A Different Beast
While the Hornet R/T FC1-X is built for rallycross dominance, the standard Dodge Hornet is a versatile compact crossover for everyday drivers. Buyers can choose between two powerful options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering 268 horsepower or a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 1.3-liter turbo-4 with electric motors for a total output of 288 horsepower.
With the Hornet R/T FC1-X, Dodge is showcasing its legacy of performance and stepping into the future of motorsports by embracing electric power in the world of rallycross.