The 2024 Charger Daytona is Dodge's first all-electric muscle car

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona is a fully electric vehicle built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. It's the first all-electric car in Dodge's lineup, designed to deliver the performance feel of a traditional muscle car but powered by a battery instead of a gasoline engine. The Daytona name references Dodge's racing heritage at Daytona International Speedway.

This vehicle comes in two main versions: the Charger Daytona and the higher-performance Charger Daytona SRT. Both use a dual-motor setup that powers all four wheels, though the SRT version produces more horsepower and can accelerate faster. The standard Daytona produces around 260 horsepower, while the SRT version produces around 420 horsepower.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 Charger Daytona is Dodge's first fully electric vehicle, available in standard and high-performance SRT versions.
  • The vehicle uses a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and can travel between 260 and 260+ miles per charge depending on the model and battery size.
  • Charging at home with a Level 2 charger takes approximately 8 to 10 hours for a full charge, while DC fast charging can add 200 miles in about 30 minutes.
  • The Daytona qualifies for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 if you meet income and vehicle price requirements, though final may be able to access depends on where the vehicle is assembled and sourced.
  • Real-world driving range varies based on weather, driving habits, and terrain, typically reducing range by 20 to 40 percent in cold conditions.

Battery size, range, and what affects how far you can drive

The 2024 Charger Daytona comes with a choice of two battery sizes. The standard battery is 85 kilowatt-hours, while the larger option is 102 kilowatt-hours. The EPA estimates the standard version can travel 260 miles on a full charge, while the larger battery extends that to around 260+ miles, though Dodge's official figures vary slightly by model year and trim.

Real-world range is almost always shorter than the EPA estimate. Cold weather reduces range significantly—expect 20 to 40 percent less distance when temperatures drop below freezing. Highway driving at high speeds also cuts range more than city driving, because the motor works harder to overcome wind resistance. Towing, hilly terrain, and aggressive acceleration all reduce how far you can go on a single charge.

You can check your remaining range on the vehicle's dashboard display at any time. Most owners find that planning trips around charging stations becomes routine after a few months of ownership, especially if you have a home charger installed.

Charging at home versus using public chargers

Home charging is the most convenient option for daily use. A Level 2 charger installed at your house can fully charge the Daytona's larger battery in 8 to 10 hours overnight. Installation typically costs between $500 and $2,000 depending on your electrical panel and how far the charger needs to be from your car. Many states and utilities offer rebates that can cover part or all of this cost.

If you charge using a standard household outlet (Level 1), expect to add only 2 to 3 miles of range per hour, which means a full charge would take 40 to 50 hours. This is impractical for regular use but works if you have a long driveway and rarely drive more than a few miles per day.

Public charging networks like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint operate DC fast chargers at highway rest stops, shopping centers, and parking lots. A 30-minute session at a DC fast charger can add roughly 200 miles of range. These chargers are faster than home charging but cost more per kilowatt-hour. You typically pay either per session, by subscription, or through a membership plan with the network operator.

Federal tax credit and what it actually means for your purchase

The 2024 Charger Daytona may may have access to for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 when you file your taxes the year after purchase. To receive this credit, you must meet three conditions: your household income must fall below certain thresholds (around $300,000 for joint filers), the vehicle's final assembly location must be in North America, and the vehicle's price must not exceed the cap set by the IRS (around $55,000 for sedans).

The credit is not a rebate you receive at the dealership. Instead, you claim it on your federal tax return after you buy the car. If your tax liability is less than $7,500, you receive only what you owe in taxes—you cannot get the excess as a refund. Some dealerships offer point-of-sale programs that let you transfer the credit to them when ready, reducing your out-of-pocket cost at purchase, but this is optional and not all dealers participate.

Check the IRS website or fueleconomy.gov closer to your purchase date, because the credit rules and vehicle may be able to access change annually. Some trim levels or battery configurations may not may have access to, so confirm with your dealer which specific model you're buying meets the requirements.

Performance, acceleration, and how the Daytona drives differently from gas cars

The standard Charger Daytona accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 6.5 seconds. The SRT version does it in approximately 3.3 seconds, which puts it in the range of high-end sports cars. Electric motors deliver maximum torque when ready, so even the standard version feels quick off the line compared to many gasoline vehicles in its price range.

The driving experience is quieter than a traditional car—there's no engine noise, just the hum of the motor and the sound of wind and tires. One-pedal driving is possible: when you lift off the accelerator, the motor slows the car and recovers energy back into the battery. This takes some adjustment if you're used to coasting in a gas car, but most drivers find it intuitive after a few days.

The Daytona's weight is higher than a comparable gas-powered sedan because of the battery pack, which sits low in the chassis. This lowers the center of gravity and improves handling, but it also means the car feels planted and stable rather than light and nimble. Regenerative braking—the system that captures energy when you slow down—means your brake pads last much longer than in a traditional car.

Maintenance, warranty, and long-term battery health

Electric vehicles have far fewer moving parts than gas cars, so routine maintenance is simpler. You don't need oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid. Brake fluid and coolant still need periodic checks, and tires wear normally. Most owners find their annual maintenance costs are significantly lower than they would be for a comparable gasoline vehicle.

Dodge covers the battery with an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. This covers defects in the battery itself but not normal degradation. Most EV batteries retain 80 to 90 percent of their capacity after 8 years of normal use, though this varies based on climate, charging habits, and how often you use DC fast charging.

The vehicle's overall powertrain warranty is also 8 years/100,000 miles. If something fails in the motor, inverter, or charging system during that period, Dodge covers the repair. After the warranty expires, repairs can be expensive, so understanding what's covered and when is important if you plan to keep the car long-term.

Trim levels, pricing, and what features come with each version

The 2024 Charger Daytona is offered in three main trims: the base Daytona, the Daytona Plus, and the high-performance Daytona SRT. Pricing varies by region and dealer, but the base model typically starts in the mid-$40,000 range before any incentives or tax credits. The SRT version costs significantly more, usually in the $60,000 to $70,000 range.

The base Daytona includes the 85-kilowatt-hour battery, all-wheel drive, an 8-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration. The Plus trim adds the larger 102-kilowatt-hour battery, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, and additional comfort features. The SRT version includes the larger battery, more powerful motors, performance suspension tuning, and sportier styling.

All versions come with a mobile app that lets you check the battery level, start charging, and locate your car from your phone. You can also set charging schedules to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates if your utility offers time-of-use pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow a trailer with the 2024 Charger Daytona?

The standard Charger Daytona is not rated for towing. The SRT version has a towing capacity of around 2,000 pounds, but towing significantly reduces range—expect to lose 20 to 30 percent of your available distance when pulling a trailer. Check your owner's manual for the exact specifications of your model.

What happens if the battery dies while I'm driving?

The car will not suddenly stop. As the battery depletes, the dashboard displays a low-battery warning and shows your remaining range. You can continue driving at reduced power until you reach a charger. The system is designed to give you plenty of warning before the battery is completely empty.

Does the Daytona work in snow and ice?

Yes. All-wheel drive helps with traction in snow, and the low center of gravity improves stability on ice. However, cold weather reduces range by 20 to 40 percent because the battery is less efficient and the cabin heater draws power. Plan for shorter trips in winter or charge more frequently.

Can I charge the Daytona at a Tesla Supercharger?

Not directly. Tesla Superchargers use a different connector standard. However, Dodge vehicles come with an adapter that allows charging at Tesla's network through the Magic Dock, which is available at many Tesla locations. Check the Electrify America or PlugShare apps to find compatible chargers near you.

How long does the battery last before I need to replace it?

Most EV batteries last 10 to 15 years or more. Dodge's warranty covers 8 years/100,000 miles. After that, replacement costs vary widely—typically $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the battery size and your location. Battery technology is improving, so costs may be lower by the time replacement becomes necessary.