Dodge has come to the SEMA show in Las Vegas with a prototype called Charger Daytona SRT, believed to be the predecessor of the American marque’s all-electric muscle cars. In its top spec, the model shapes up to be stronger than the best Chargers and Challengers around.
It is already official that the two entry-level versions of the car will run on a 400V power architecture. The cheapest version will get a multi-motor system with 455 hp (339 kW) at the output end, and the next up the line will enjoy 590 PS (440 kW).
Those who would like a power boost will later be able to unlock it through paid upgrades called eStage 1 and eStage 2. For the 455-hp version, these packages will unlock 495 and 535 hp, respectively. The 590-hp spec will be able to go up to 630 and 670 hp. Dodge says the unlocking process will involve a “Crystal Key” you are supposed to insert into the front panel. This could mean that both are purely software tunes removing some kind of factory-installed performance cap.
At any rate, diehard muscle car fans will want to consider the top-of-the-line Banshee spec, which comes with an 800V power grid on board, extremely powerful motors and – you guessed it – two further upgrade options. Dodge has not revealed any specifics regarding this top spec yet, though.
To reconcile drivers with the missing IC engine, the company has implemented a Fratzonic exhaust sound emulation system, which it claims to be the world’s first of its kind. Visitors of the show will be able to assess the sound themselves and provide their feedback, which the company pledges to take into consideration while making last-minute changes in the soundtrack.
The production is scheduled to start next year.