WATCH: Dodge’s New CEO Reveal The Charger Daytona

This past weekend, the automotive community gathered at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan, for the highly anticipated Roadkill Nights event, where Dodge’s new CEO, Matt McAlear, took center stage to introduce the all-new, all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona. McAlear, who stepped into his role in June, succeeding Tim Kuniskis, brings a wealth of experience to the position. His deep connection with the brand spans over a decade, making him a familiar face to those who follow Dodge and its storied history.

McAlear’s journey with the Chrysler Group began in earnest when he served as the Dodge Brand Manager from May 2013 to November 2015. During this time, he played a pivotal role in the launch of the 2015 HELLCAT lineup, which set new standards in the muscle car segment. His expertise extended to other significant projects, such as the launch of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan in 2017, where he served as the Senior Product Manager. He later took on overseeing the Dodge Challenger, Charger, and Chrysler 300 from 2017 to 2018. McAlear’s experience also includes a stint with Maserati North America as the Product Senior Manager and Head of Field Sales Operations from 2019 to 2020 before he returned to Dodge to lead its sales operations.

As Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, McAlear was instrumental in guiding the brand’s strategic direction. His appointment as CEO marks a new chapter for Dodge, and his familiarity with the brand’s legacy is evident in his approach to the future.

Despite some backlash over the absence of the HEMI® V8 in the new-generation of Charger models, McAlear remained confident in Dodge’s direction. He emphasized that these new electric vehicles represent the best muscle cars the company has ever produced. “We’re staying true to our roots while embracing the future of performance,” McAlear stated during the unveiling.

The inaugural-year Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack two-door model was a highlight of the event. It includes a Track Package and a factory-installed Direct Connection Stage 2 Upgrade, resulting in a total output of 670 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft. of torque. This powerful combination allows the Charger Daytona to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, with an estimated quarter-mile time of 11.5 seconds. The vehicle maintains Dodge’s reputation as the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car, with an SRT-level performance at a starting U.S. MSRP of $73,190.

Another standout model introduced was the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona R/T two-door. This model launches with the standard Direct Connection Stage 1 Upgrade installed at the factory, offering a total output of 496 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft. of torque. The Charger Daytona R/T is priced with a starting U.S. MSRP of $59,595, excluding a $1,995 destination charge.

The new cars will be arriving in dealer showrooms in the fourth quarter of this year.