Big news is stirring in the automotive world, and it might not be what Dodge fans want to hear. According to new reports, the highly anticipated Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee, the all-electric muscle car intended to mark a new era for Dodge, may never reach production.
A Rumor with Serious Weight
The story first surfaced through MoparInsiders, which cited a “trusted supplier” as the source of the information. If this report proves true, it means Dodge is abandoning one of its boldest electric vehicle projects yet. The Banshee was set to be the halo model for Dodge’s EV push,a high-performance version of the Charger Daytona EV. But just like the Ram 1500 REV Extended Range pickup, the Banshee may be heading to what some are calling “cancellation heaven.”
Dodge EV Struggles in the U.S.
The regular Dodge Charger Daytona EV has already faced tough challenges. Sales have been sluggish, and demand for all-electric muscle cars has been weaker than expected in the U.S. market. Now, with Stellantis (Dodge’s parent company) reevaluating its product lineup under CEO Antonio Filosa, the Banshee looks like it could be the latest casualty.
When asked about the rumor, Stellantis didn’t confirm or deny the cancellation directly. Instead, the company responded with a broad statement:
“Stellantis continues to reassess its product strategy to align with consumer demand. Our plan ensures we offer customers a range of vehicles with flexible powertrain options that best meet their needs.”
That isn’t an outright “no” to the Banshee, but it’s certainly not a confident “yes,” either.
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A Step Back from EVs, A Step Toward Gas Engines
If the Banshee project is indeed over, it joins a list of scrapped electrified products. Alongside the Ram 1500 REV Extended Range, Stellantis also dropped plans for the Jeep Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid. Instead, the automaker appears to be shifting back toward internal combustion, especially with the return of the iconic Hemi V-8 engine.
The Hemi has already been reintroduced for models like the Ram 1500 pickup, Dodge Durango SUV, and Jeep Wrangler. There are even whispers that Dodge could extend the Hemi revival into the Charger lineup. Though Stellantis hasn’t confirmed whether the Hemi would fit under the hood of the current Charger, Dodge CEO Matt Miller has hinted that muscle cars might not be done with big V-8 power just yet.
Different Strategies for Different Markets
One thing seems clear: Stellantis is scaling back its EV ambitions in the U.S. while still staying committed to electrification in Europe. American buyers, at least for now, appear to be more attached to traditional engines, while European regulations and demand continue to push automakers toward electric-only options.
What This Means for Dodge Fans
For muscle car enthusiasts, the possible loss of the Charger Daytona SRT Banshee EV is bittersweet. On one hand, it signals another step back from the electric revolution Dodge once promised. On the other, it opens the door for a potential return of the raw, roaring power of the Hemi in future Chargers.
As of today, nothing has been officially confirmed, but the signs are pointing toward major changes in Dodge’s future lineup. For now, fans will have to wait and see if the Banshee’s dream of being the ultimate electric muscle car is truly “dead in the water” or if Dodge still has a surprise up its sleeve.
FAQs
Is the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee EV canceled?
Right now, it’s not officially confirmed, but strong reports suggest the Banshee EV might not make it to production. The company has not said “yes” or “no,” but it has admitted it is rethinking its lineup to match customer demand.
Why would Dodge cancel the Banshee EV?
Sales of the regular Charger Daytona EV have been slower than expected. Additionally, U.S. buyers appear to prefer gas-powered cars, particularly muscle cars with large engines, over all-electric models.
Will the Dodge Charger still be available if the Banshee EV is gone?
Yes, the Charger itself is still planned to be part of the lineup. There are even rumors that a gas-powered version with a Hemi V-8 could return, so the Charger name isn’t going away anytime soon
What makes the Banshee different from the regular Charger Daytona EV?
The Banshee was supposed to be the high-performance version of the Charger EV. It would have had more power, a unique design, and features aimed at making it feel like a true muscle car, but with electric power instead of gas.
Are muscle car fans interested in electric vehicles?
Many traditional muscle car fans are hesitant about EVs. They often prefer the sound, feel, and power of a gas engine. This makes it harder for automakers to sell electric muscle cars in the U.S. compared to Europe, where EV demand is stronger.
Does this mean Dodge is done making electric cars?
Not exactly. The company is still working on EVs, especially for the European market. But in the U.S., they seem to be pulling back on some EV projects and focusing more on gas engines again
Will the Hemi V-8 come back in the Dodge Charger?
It hasn’t been confirmed, but the Hemi V-8 has already returned to models like the Ram 1500 and Dodge Durango. Some executives have hinted that it could find its way back into the Charger as well.
What happens if the Banshee EV really doesn’t get built?
If it’s canceled, fans won’t see the all-electric halo muscle car Dodge had promised. Instead, buyers might see more focus on hybrid or gas-powered models, possibly including a stronger push for performance V-8 engines again.
Why are EV plans changing so much in the U.S.?
Many American car buyers aren’t switching to EVs as quickly as automakers hoped. High prices, limited charging stations, and love for gas engines all play a role. Because of this, some automakers are slowing down or canceling EV projects.
Should I wait for the Banshee EV or look at other cars?
Since the future of the Banshee EV is uncertain, it may be better to consider other options. If you’re set on an electric car, there are other performance EVs already available. If you prefer muscle power, waiting to see if the Hemi Charger comes back might be worth it.
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