Stellantis is exploring cutting-edge active aerodynamics for the Dodge Charger Daytona, as indicated by a recent patent filing. Revealed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on May 9, the patent details an intriguing system featuring pop-up airfoils integrated into the Charger’s front fascia, akin to those found on high-performance supercars like the Pagani Huayra.
The innovative front wing, comprising either a single unit or multiple sections, deploys using actuators to adjust its angle dynamically. This capability allows the airfoils to optimize aerodynamic efficiency based on driving conditions, potentially influenced by the vehicle’s drive mode or manually controlled by the driver.
While the 2024 Dodge Charger lineup includes a gasoline inline-6 engine option, this active aero system appears tailored for the electric Charger Daytona variant. Specifically designed for the Daytona model, the airfoils are mounted on the distinctive R-Wing, a raised section of the front end that incorporates an air channel underneath. This design not only pays homage to the iconic 1968 Charger but also enhances aerodynamic performance, addressing historical aerodynamic challenges.
Set to debut at dealerships this summer, the Charger Daytona will initially launch in R/T and Scat Pack configurations, featuring dual-motor all-wheel drive setups and a substantial 100.5-kWh battery pack. However, Dodge hints that the active aerodynamic technology might be reserved for future variants, potentially akin to a high-performance model like the legendary Hellcat, possibly under the name Banshee.
In a broader context, Dodge’s move into active aerodynamics mirrors similar developments among its Detroit rivals. General Motors, for instance, is exploring active aero for upcoming performance models, such as the anticipated C8 Corvette ZR1, while Ford has been pursuing patents for deployable dive planes, underscoring the competitive landscape of innovation in automotive aerodynamics.
As Stellantis continues to innovate and push boundaries with technologies like active aerodynamics, the Dodge Charger Daytona stands poised not only to evoke nostalgia for its iconic predecessors but also to redefine expectations in the realm of high-performance vehicles.