Shock Move from Dodge: The 900-HP Charger Banshee Is Reportedly “Dead” Before Launching

The 800-volt electric super-muscle car that was meant to lead the brand’s future may have been cancelled for good.

An Unexpected Twist in Stellantis’ Strategy

What was shaping up to be one of Dodge’s boldest projects for entering the electric era may have fallen apart behind the scenes. According to internal leaks shared by Mopar Insiders, the Dodge Charger SRT Daytona Banshee, a radical EV boasting 900 horsepower and an 800-volt architecture, has allegedly been cancelled before its expected debut in late 2025 or early 2026. It’s a dramatic shift that reflects the deep overhaul Stellantis is currently applying to its electrification plans.

The move doesn’t come entirely as a surprise. The company has already slowed down—or outright killed—several electric programs. The Ram 1500 REV, the Jeep Gladiator 4xe and other upcoming EVs have been scrapped, sending a clear message: the group is prioritizing profitability and real-world demand over the more aggressive electrification strategy once pushed by former CEO Carlos Tavares.

Dodge Rethinks Its Future: Combustion, Hybrids and a More Cautious EV Plan

Although Dodge hasn’t released an official statement, a spokesperson said the company “continues to reassess its product strategy”—the same wording Stellantis used when it announced the cancellation of the electric Ram 1500. All signs point to the Charger Banshee being shelved as part of this new roadmap, where fully electric models have lost their top priority and combustion engines are regaining momentum.

In fact, while EV projects are being paused or cancelled, some iconic powertrains have returned. Ram has brought back the Hemi V-8, and the latest Dodge Durango is now offered exclusively with a Hemi, signaling the strong demand for traditional performance in the American market—power, sound and raw driving emotion.

Could a V-8 Charger Make a Comeback? The Door Isn’t Closed

The big question now is obvious: if the electric Banshee is gone, could a V-8-powered Charger return? While nothing is confirmed, several hints point in that direction. Dodge recently launched the Charger Sixpack, powered by a high-output inline-six, and rumors about the Hemi V-8’s comeback have been circulating for months.

A key statement adds fuel to the speculation. In August, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear said the brand is leaning strongly back toward combustion-powered vehicles. When asked whether a V-8 could physically fit in the new Charger’s engine bay, he responded: “Don’t be surprised if it would fit.” A clear wink to enthusiasts.

An Uncertain Future, but One Clear Message

Pending official confirmation, the apparent cancellation of the 900-hp Charger Banshee marks a turning point in Dodge’s and Stellantis’ product strategy. Meanwhile, the brand seems determined to balance electrification, combustion and market realities. One thing is certain: Dodge has no intention of giving up on high-emotion performance. And if that means bringing back the roar of a V-8, many fans will be more than happy.