Dodge Finally Made a Cool Hornet, But You Can’t Buy It

The 1,070 hp Hornet R/T FC1-X will start competing in the Nitrocross Series later this month

The Hornet was Dodge’s most significant model in over a decade, but it’s received little attention, with the company projected to sell only 23,436 units in the U.S. this year. In contrast, Ford sold 37,943 Escapes in just the second quarter.

That’s tough, but Dodge has finally revealed a cool Hornet. Sadly, it won’t be for sale, as it’s heading to the 2024-2025 Nitrocross Series.

The Hornet R/T FC1-X, built for the Group E class, is a high-performance electric vehicle with four axial flux motors delivering 1,070 hp (798 kW / 1,085 PS). This all-wheel drive monster can launch from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in just 1.4 seconds.

In addition to its high-performance powertrain, the rally car features a Dodge-themed livery that somewhat resembles the road-going model. However, the two are easily distinguishable, as the FC1-X is a two-door coupe with a massive rear wing and a diffuser that looks fit for NASA.

The car stands out with its tubular chassis, adjustable double wishbone suspension, and 12 inches of wheel travel. It also features an Alcon braking system and adjustable anti-roll bars.

Dodge will enter four cars, thanks to a partnership with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. The drivers will be Lia Block, Robin Larsson, Fraser McConnell, and Andres Bakkerud.

Dodge CEO Matt McAlear called Nitrocross a “perfect venue” for the brand, noting that around 75% of fans are between 18 and 34 years old, offering the company a chance to promote the Hornet to a “young, enthusiastic new audience.”

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  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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