Uncovering the Truth Behind Dodge’s Silence on a Hemi-V8 Charger Upgrade
Can the Hemi V8 Fit in the New Charger? The Truth Behind the Denial
The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV has been receiving mixed reviews, with some praising its innovative design and technical features, while others lament the absence of a traditional V8 engine. Amidst the controversy, rumors have been circulating about the possibility of the Hemi V8 engine being compatible with the new Charger. But what’s the truth behind the denial from Dodge?
Dodge’s Non-Answer: Is it a Web of Deception or a Well-Protected Secret?
Dodge’s response to the question has been cryptic, with the company stating, "Dodge is focused on launching new electric Dodge Charger models and the Dodge Charger SixPack ICE-option models next year. We have nothing to share regarding future products." This statement raises more questions than it answers, leaving us wondering if the V8 engine is truly incompatible with the new Charger or if there’s more to the story.
The ‘It Doesn’t Fit’ Argument: A Bridge Too Far?
Jalopnik recently reported that an anonymous Dodge engineer claimed that the V8 engine wouldn’t fit in the new Charger without significant modifications to the engine bay and firewall, resulting in a costly redesign. While this may be true, it’s not the whole truth. The 2025 Dodge Charger is actually bigger than its predecessor, with a longer, wider, and taller design. This raises the possibility of accommodating a V8 engine, if not easily, then potentially with some compromises.
Just How Difficult is it to Stuff a V8 in a New Charger?
The new Charger’s design limitations are real, but they shouldn’t be insurmountable. The high-output Hurricane inline-six engine found in the current models measures 34 inches long, 29 inches wide, and 33 inches tall, whereas the naturally aspirated Gen III Hemi V8 engine measures about 29" x 26" x 31". This suggests that, with some creative problem-solving, the new Charger’s engine bay could potentially accommodate a V8 engine.
Why Won’t Dodge Acknowledge the Possibility?
So, why won’t Dodge come clean and confirm or deny the feasibility of a V8 engine in the new Charger? The answer may lie in the company’s financial situation and its commitment to electric propulsion. Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge, is not in the best position to invest in adapting supply and production lines for a different engine, particularly on a niche product like the Charger. Additionally, the company has shed its reliance on electric vehicle (EV) credits from other manufacturers, making it harder to offset the emissions generated by a V8 engine.
Conclusion: A Glimmer of Hope?
While the future of the Hemi V8 engine in the new Charger is uncertain, there’s a glimmer of hope in the man who killed the Hemi getting the boot. However, it’s unlikely that we’ll see a V8 engine in the new Charger. For now, enthusiasts will have to settle for the electric and gas-powered options, leaving the nostalgic V8 longing for the past in the dust.
