Dodge's current electric vehicle options

Dodge has one production electric vehicle available to consumers: the Dodge Charger SE, a battery-powered sedan that launched for the 2024 model year. It is not a conversion of the gas-powered Charger — it is built on an entirely different platform designed specifically for electric powertrains. The Charger SE seats five, has a starting price in the mid-$40,000 range, and delivers an EPA-estimated range of around 260 miles per charge, though this varies based on driving conditions and the specific trim level.

Dodge also announced plans for additional electric models, including an electric version of the Challenger muscle car, but these remain in development and are not yet available for purchase. The company has committed to transitioning its entire lineup to electric or hybrid powertrains by 2030, but the Charger SE is currently the only fully electric vehicle Dodge offers to retail customers.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dodge Charger SE is a battery-electric sedan with an EPA-estimated range of approximately 260 miles and a starting price around $43,000 to $45,000, depending on trim and current market conditions.
  • The Charger SE uses a different platform than the gas-powered Charger and is designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, not a retrofit.
  • Dodge plans to introduce an electric Challenger and other electric models by 2030, but these are not yet available for purchase.
  • Charging time for the Charger SE varies: DC fast charging can add 200 miles in roughly 30 minutes, while a standard 240-volt home charger takes 8 to 10 hours for a full charge.

Charger SE specifications and performance

The Charger SE comes in two main trim levels: the base SE and the higher-spec SRT. Both use the same 85-kilowatt-hour battery pack, but the SRT adds a second motor for all-wheel drive and increases total output to around 420 horsepower. The base SE is rear-wheel drive with approximately 260 horsepower. Acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour takes roughly 5.5 seconds in the base model and around 4.3 seconds in the SRT.

The vehicle's interior is designed around a large touchscreen infotainment system and offers features common to modern electric sedans: one-pedal driving (regenerative braking), wireless smartphone integration, and over-the-air software updates. Dodge has positioned the Charger SE as a performance-oriented electric car rather than a budget option, which is reflected in its pricing and available features like adaptive suspension and performance-tuned brakes.

Charging infrastructure and real-world range

The Charger SE supports both AC and DC fast charging. At home with a Level 2 charger (240 volts), a full charge typically takes 8 to 10 hours. DC fast charging at public networks can add roughly 200 miles of range in 30 minutes under ideal conditions, though actual speed depends on the charger's power output and the battery's state of charge. The vehicle uses the NACS connector standard, which is now the industry standard for new electric vehicles sold in North America.

Real-world range depends heavily on driving style, weather, and terrain. Highway driving at high speeds reduces range more than city driving. Cold weather can reduce range by 20 to 40 percent compared to temperate conditions. Dodge estimates the 260-mile EPA range assumes a mix of city and highway driving under average conditions.

How the Charger SE compares to other electric sedans

In its price range, the Charger SE competes with vehicles like the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Chevrolet Equinox EV. The Model 3 offers longer range options and a more established charging network through Tesla's Supercharger system, but typically costs more. The Ioniq 6 is smaller and more efficient, with better range per kilowatt-hour, but offers less interior space. The Equinox EV is larger and less expensive but is an SUV rather than a sedan.

The Charger SE's main distinction is its performance focus — Dodge emphasizes acceleration and handling rather than maximum efficiency or range. The SRT variant, in particular, is positioned as a high-performance electric sedan, which is a narrower market segment than the mainstream electric sedans offered by Tesla or Hyundai.

Warranty, maintenance, and long-term costs

Dodge covers the Charger SE's battery with an 8-year, 100,000-mile warranty, which is standard across the industry. The vehicle itself is covered by a 3-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Electric vehicles generally require less maintenance than gas-powered cars because they have no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid — the main service items are tire rotation, brake fluid checks, and battery health monitoring.

Operating costs are lower than comparable gas vehicles because electricity is cheaper than gasoline per mile driven, and there are no oil changes or spark plug replacements. However, tire wear can be higher due to the vehicle's weight, and eventual battery replacement — though unlikely within the warranty period — would be a significant expense. Most owners can expect lower total cost of ownership over five to seven years compared to a gas-powered sedan in the same price range.

Incentives and financing options

The Charger SE may be may be able to access for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 if it meets current income and price cap requirements set by the U.S. government. These requirements change annually and depend on where the vehicle is assembled and where its battery components are sourced. Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle purchases, though these vary widely by location and are subject to change.

Dodge and its dealers offer standard financing through various lenders, and some offer lease options for the Charger SE. Leasing can be attractive for buyers concerned about battery longevity or who want to drive a new vehicle every few years, though monthly payments are typically higher than loan payments for the same vehicle.

Dodge's broader electric vehicle strategy

Dodge has historically been known for muscle cars and performance vehicles, and the company is positioning its electric transition around that identity. The Charger SE is the first step, but Dodge has announced an electric Challenger and plans to introduce electric versions of other models. The company has stated it will discontinue gas-only vehicles by 2030, though hybrid options may remain available.

This strategy differs from some competitors who have launched multiple electric models simultaneously. Dodge is taking a slower, more selective approach, focusing on performance and brand identity rather than trying to match the breadth of Tesla's or Volkswagen's electric lineups. Whether this approach succeeds depends partly on how quickly the market for performance-oriented electric vehicles grows and how well the Charger SE is received by consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to charge a Dodge Charger SE at home?

With a Level 2 home charger (240 volts), a full charge takes 8 to 10 hours. If you only have access to a standard 120-volt outlet, charging takes 24 to 30 hours for a full charge, which is why most owners install a dedicated 240-volt charger. DC fast charging at public stations can add 200 miles in roughly 30 minutes.

What is the difference between the Charger SE and the Charger SRT?

The SRT adds a second motor for all-wheel drive and increases horsepower from 260 to around 420. It accelerates faster (0-60 in roughly 4.3 seconds versus 5.5 seconds) and offers performance-tuned suspension and brakes. Both models use the same battery and have similar range, but the SRT costs several thousand dollars more.

Can I use a Tesla Supercharger with the Dodge Charger SE?

Yes, as of 2024, the Charger SE uses the NACS connector standard, which is compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network. You will need an adapter or a vehicle with a native NACS port to use these chargers, but access is available through various subscription plans and pay-per-use options.

Is the Charger SE may be able to access for the federal tax credit?

It may be, depending on your income, the vehicle's final price, and where it is assembled. The federal tax credit is up to $7,500, but may be able to access changes annually. Check the current IRS guidelines or speak with a Dodge dealer about whether a specific Charger SE model meets the requirements for your situation.

When will the electric Dodge Challenger be available?

Dodge has announced an electric Challenger but has not released a specific launch date. The company has committed to introducing it sometime before 2030 as part of its broader transition to electric and hybrid vehicles, but production timelines remain subject to change.