Dodge has officially postponed the highly anticipated launch of the four-door Charger Daytona EV to 2026. This, after the vehicle had initially been scheduled for a launch in the first half of 2025, would find the model arriving sometime in the latter half of 2026. This coincides with the introduction of the internal-combustion Charger Sixpack, which will similarly launch on that timeline. While the wait is on for the new electric muscle car for Dodge devotees, speculation arises concerning issues in production capabilities and marketing strategies. The wait may, however, have been justified, given the incredible modifications that are said to follow.
Reasons for Delay
Tariff Uncertainty and Market Adjustments
The delay in question had a lot to do with possible tariff uncertainties about distribution within the U.S. Dodge is in the process of reassessing its production strategy and therefore has scrubbed the R/T trim from the Daytona lineup. The Scat Pack, with one available powertrain rated at 670 horsepower, remains.
Schedule Sync with the Charger Sixpack
Dodge’s decision to delay the four-door Charger Daytona EV synchronizes its launch with the internal-combustion Charger Sixpack. This lets Dodge consolidate their production and marketing for both EV and regular muscle car aficionados. The delay would also further allow Dodge to perfect the engineering and design features of this machine to meet high-performance expectations.
Features and Updates for the 2026 Model
Performance Enhancements
Despite the delay, several performance enhancements are now being offered for the Charger Daytona EV. The Track Package, which is available for both two-door and four-door models, includes:
Upgraded Brembo brakes with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers.
Adaptive dampers for better handling.
Onboard race recorder to track performance metrics.
Performance seats are designed for maximum comfort and support.
New Appearance Options
Dodge is now offering more options to customize a 2026 Charger Daytona EV. Customers can now choose:
Fratzog dual racing stripes for that sporty touch.
Gloss-black hood for a more menacing touch on the face of the Charger.
New elements of aerodynamics that will improve efficiency and speed.
Impacting the Market and the Expectations of Users
Competition in the EV Market
The delay puts Dodge in a competitive scenario vis-à-vis the EV muscle car segment. Within the time, while Tesla and Ford are busy with their electric performance models, Dodge is making sure to perfect its offer. With rampant evolution in the EV landscape, Dodge wants to ensure that its Charger Daytona has unparalleled innovations.
Consumer Reactions
The long wait for news of the Charger AWD EV must have made many a fan disgruntled, especially considering the hopes of many for a new kind of four-door electric muscle car. Nevertheless, Dodge’s promise to work on perfecting features and increasing power will surely help mitigate some of these concerns. Additionally, with specs outlining the performance and customization offered by Dodge, this extra time in development will yield what just may be a best-in-class EV muscle car experience.
Conclusion: A Deliberate Delay for Long-Term Gains
Dodge’s decision to delay the four-door Charger Daytona EV to 2026 comes out of an astute assessment of production, market conditions, and tariff policies. Today, enthusiasts must wait a little longer; however, with promises of performance enhancement, increased customization, and improved engineering, it will prove to be a formidable milestone in the company’s lineup. Undoubtedly, Dodge is working on the Charger Daytona EV to ensure it measures up to the high-performing standards of the brand. As the muscle car segment of EVs continues to morph, Dodge is bent on demonstrating how to electrify a cutting-edge sports car that resonates with consumers.
