Imagine saving up for a sleek, electric muscle car, only to find out it’s being pulled from production. That’s the reality for fans of the Dodge Charger Daytona R/T EV. Once hailed as the “world’s first electric muscle car,” the R/T model is now discontinued for the 2026 model year. Let’s delve into what led to this unexpected decision and what it means for the future of Dodge’s electric lineup.

The Rise and Fall of the Charger Daytona R/T EV

The Dodge Charger Daytona R/T EV debuted with much fanfare, boasting 496 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. Priced at $59,995, it was positioned as an accessible entry into the electric muscle car segment. However, despite its impressive specs, the R/T struggled to find its footing in the market.

Sales Slump and Inventory Overflow

In the first quarter of 2025, Dodge sold only 1,947 electric Charger Daytona models in the U.S., with a significant portion being the higher-end Scat Pack variant. Dealerships reported an excess inventory of approximately 3,500 unsold R/T units, leading to substantial discounts to clear stock. Some dealers offered the R/T for nearly half its original price, highlighting the challenges in moving the model off lots.

Tariffs and Strategic Shifts

Dodge’s decision to discontinue the R/T model isn’t solely based on sales figures. The company cited U.S. tariff policies as a contributing factor, stating that production of the R/T is “postponed” for the 2026 model year. This move allows Dodge to reassess its strategy and focus on models with higher demand and profitability.

The Scat Pack Takes Center Stage

With the R/T model sidelined, Dodge is turning its attention to the Charger Daytona Scat Pack. This high-performance variant delivers 670 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. Despite its higher price point, the Scat Pack has garnered more interest from consumers, prompting Dodge to consider a price reduction to boost its appeal further.

Expanding the Lineup: Four-Door and Gas-Powered Options

Looking ahead, Dodge plans to diversify its Charger lineup. A new four-door electric Charger Daytona is set to debut in 2026, catering to consumers seeking practicality without compromising performance. Additionally, the company will introduce the Charger Sixpack, a gas-powered model equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engine, available in both 420 and 550 horsepower configurations.

Conclusion

The discontinuation of the Charger Daytona R/T EV underscores the challenges automakers face in the evolving electric vehicle market. While the R/T’s departure marks the end of an era for Dodge’s entry-level electric muscle car, the company’s commitment to innovation and adaptation suggests a promising future for its performance-oriented lineup.