Reports suggest that V8 production might shift from Mexico to Michigan
The Dodge Charger Daytona has struggled to gain traction, as the “brotherhood of muscle” shows little interest in an overpriced electric muscle car. This has led to brand-new models being listed for as much as $10,000 below MSRP.
Help may come in the form of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six, arriving this summer, which outperforms the old 5.7- and 6.4-liter V8s with 420 hp (313 kW) and 550 hp (410 kW), respectively. However, fans continue to demand Hemi V8 power.
With Carlos Tavares no longer leading Stellantis, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear hinted at a potential shift in perspective, saying that under new leadership, “V8s are no longer a bad word around the company.” Despite this, McAlear acknowledged the age of the 5.7-, 6.2-, and 6.4-liter V8s, as well as compliance challenges.
He noted that developing a new engine takes time, and regulatory changes, such as those proposed by President Trump, might not offer long-term relief.
While this raises questions about the Hemi’s future, McAlear emphasized that Dodge is just getting started with the Charger Daytona, noting that the SRT variant is still to come. He also confirmed that a production version of the Hornet GLH concept, featuring unique graphics, a dual exhaust, and 20-inch wheels, will launch later this year.
Meanwhile, Mopar Insiders reported that Stellantis might restart production of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, potentially moving production from Mexico to Dundee, Michigan. If true, this engine could be used in the Dodge Durango and Ram 1500.
