The end is near for the heralded Hemi.
Since the Hellcat’s death, we knew for a while. Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis stated this earlier in the year, but it was unclear when exactly. It’s now down to a model-year – 2023, to be exact. The 2022 model year is just around the corner and the Hellcat’s final ride will be here before we know.
This is assuming a recent Motor Authority report is correct. As Dodge boss Kuniskis has been cited again as the source of this information, we have no reason not to believe that it is. We have reached out to Dodge for confirmation. If we do, we will update this article with the statement. However, there is little reason for doubt that 2023 will be the last year of Hellcat models.
The Durango Hellcat will be discontinued. It was intended to be a one-and done model. We reported in August that Dodge’s electric muscle car would be available by 2024. It is obvious that 2023 will be the conclusion if you add all of these things together.
One catch is worth noting. The August report we just mentioned? Kuniskis mentioned in it that there might be overlap between the next-gen electric motor and the outgoing Hellcats. This contradicts the most recent statement that ends supercharged Chargers/Challengers in 2023. That’s why we are pushing Dodge to make an official statement. Wait, there’s more.
Kuniskis reported that a functional prototype for the new EV-powered muscle car will be available in 2022. It is unclear if it will be a near-production vehicle or just a wild idea, but this may fit the definition of Dodge and electric muscle coexisting. Although it would be a stretch to say that the Hellcat replacement might arrive sooner than expected, considering most automakers are moving at a rapid pace with EV development.
Hemi V8 power remains at least for now. Dodge has just unveiled Jailbreak versions for the SRT Challenger, Charger Redeye and Charger Redeye models. These new models offer new colors, special badges, and an increase in the Hellcat’s horsepower to 807 horsepower. We are not sure that this will be the last round of special edition hellkittys.