Digital Artist Imagines a HEMI-Powered Retro Dodge Charger

David Baylis Reimagines the All-Electric Charger as a V8 Muscle Car Icon...

Robert S. Miller January 22, 2025

HEMI-Powered Retro Dodge Charger. (@davidbaylisdesign).

As Dodge’s all-electric Charger Daytona arrives in dealerships, the muscle car community has been buzzing with mixed opinions. While many appreciate the sleek design inspired by the legendary 1968-1970 Charger, others long for the unmistakable roar of a HEMI V8. Enter David Baylis, a talented CGI automotive artist known as @davidbaylisdesign on social media, who has reimagined the new Charger as a retro-inspired V8 powerhouse.

Baylis’ digital creation transforms the futuristic Charger into a modern homage to the second-generation classic. Drawing on the design cues that made the original a legend, Baylis adds hidden headlights, a full-width grille, and even the iconic grille from the second-generation Charger. The car also sports widebody fender flares, a sculpted hood, and a reworked aerodynamic package for a muscular stance.

At the rear, big exhaust tailpipes complete the look, making it clear that this is no EV. In Baylis’ vision, the Charger is powered by a HEMI V8, channeling the heart and soul of traditional American muscle cars.

While Baylis’ Charger remains a work of digital art, it has sparked conversations among enthusiasts. Should Dodge consider a retro-inspired, V8-powered Charger alongside its electric lineup? Baylis’ creation serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of the HEMI V8 and the nostalgia tied to Dodge’s muscle car heritage.

While Dodge has clarified that shoehorning a HEMI V8 into the new Charger platform would be a massive undertaking, Baylis’ design lets fans dream. The automaker has stated that such a swap would require extensive redesigns to the front cradle, strut towers, and more—a project potentially costing hundreds of millions and requiring years of development.

Whether Dodge takes inspiration from this CGI masterpiece or not, it’s clear that fans aren’t ready to let go of the past just yet. Baylis’ retro Charger perfectly bridges the gap between heritage and innovation, capturing the spirit of an era while imagining a future that many still hope for.

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bill burke Jan 22, 2025 #1

I’ve seen Dave’s work before and I like his bold approach to muscling up cars with a flare for visual impact.
Short and sweet, these ideas work, we obviously need a Challenger spin off from the Charger that is shorter, lighter, bolder and offers a V-8 option.
The inspiration is here, the necessity is without doubt and the only thing missing is the commitment. Looking at Dave’s work should bring the obvious to reality.
Good job Dave.

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Mike201 Jan 23, 2025 #2

This reimagining of the new Charger looks pretty good. I like the added retro look.
On a negative note, this does not look good as a wide body. From the C-pillar back it looks very odd. The shot of the rear looks so awkward around the wheel wells and tires. I am sure it’s just me, but I would have rather seen some type of scallop on the door instead of the wide fenders and quarters. If we are going for the retro look then do the retro look.