The 1968 Dodge Charger III Concept was a groundbreaking experimental vehicle that redefined what a muscle car could look like. Designed by Chrysler’s advanced styling studios and crafted by Detroit’s renowned fabricators Vince Gardner and Paul Shedlik, the Charger III was unveiled during the late 1960s as part of Dodge’s exploration into futuristic design and aerodynamics.
A Design Ahead of Its Time –
Standing just 42 inches tall and stretching 184 inches long, the Charger III boasted an ultra-low, jet-fighter-inspired profile. Its body was built from lightweight fiberglass, with sharp lines and tapered features designed to cut through the air. Measuring 74 inches wide, the car was aerodynamically efficient and strikingly futuristic for its era.
The design incorporated unique features like a clamshell-style cockpit canopy that swung open at the push of a button. Entry was further eased by bucket seats that rose eight inches and a steering wheel pod that swung away. The cockpit was finished with space-age materials and featured instruments from the production 1968 Dodge Charger, giving it a realistic touch despite being a “pushmobile” without a functional drivetrain.
Innovative Features –
The Charger III wasn’t just about looks—it was packed with advanced ideas:
- Air Brake Flaps: Integrated into the rear, these synchronized with the braking system to act as supplementary air foils.
- Pop-Up Rearview Periscope: A clever solution for rear visibility in place of a traditional rear window.
- Quick-Access Service Hatch: Located on the driver-side front fender, this innovative panel included gauges for checking fluid levels without opening the hood.
- Swing-Away Steering Pod: Designed for ease of driver entry and exit, housing essential gauges like the speedometer, tachometer, and engine indicators.
Imaginary Performance –
Although the Charger III lacked a drivetrain, Dodge’s press materials suggested it could house a powerful 426 HEMI® V8 engine, making it theoretically capable of delivering the performance expected of Dodge’s muscle cars.
A Star of the Auto Show Circuit –
The Charger III dazzled at national auto shows with its bold Candy Apple Red paint, applied by Paul Shedlik, and space-age interior. It was billed as the most aerodynamic car ever conceived by Dodge. Despite its lack of functionality, its innovative design left a lasting impression on car enthusiasts and influenced the design language of future Dodge vehicles.
Legacy and Pop Culture Influence –
Though Chrysler destroyed the original car after its show career ended, the Charger III lived on in various forms:
- Matchbox released a miniature version that became a collector’s item.
- MPC offered a 1:25 scale plastic model kit, highly sought after by enthusiasts today.
- A replica body was even mounted on the Flying Dutchman drag racer, turning the Charger III into a spectacle on the match-racing circuit.
Conclusion –
The 1968 Dodge Charger III Concept represented Chrysler’s bold vision of the future. While it never saw production, its daring design, innovative features, and lasting cultural impact cement its place in automotive history. Dodge used the Charger III as an “idea car” to gather public feedback, and many of its futuristic elements influenced later designs.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the Charger III remains a symbol of 1960s innovation, showcasing the limitless possibilities of automotive design.
1968 Dodge Charger III Concept Image Gallery:
