Dodge recognizes the importance of electrifying the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV to win over enthusiasts of electric muscle cars. To achieve this, Dodge is incorporating various innovative features like the Fratzonic exhaust system, simulated engine vibrations,
a pistol grip shifter, and a unique donut mode. A recent
patent application uncovered by
CarBuzz hints at the possibility of integrating a high-performance active aero setup into the car’s intricate pass-through grille.
During the unveiling of the next-generation electric Charger,
Stellantis emphasized the retention of a classic-looking vertical front fascia and conventional grille by repurposing these elements for aerodynamic purposes rather than cooling. Drawing inspiration from the original NASCAR Charger Daytonas, the “R Wing” configuration directs airflow through the front section and over the hood to minimize drag and enhance downforce. (The conventional gasoline-powered Charger lacks an R Wing due to the presence of an engine obstructing the pathway.) However,
the patent application propels the concept into the future by introducing dynamic flaps capable of adapting to performance-driven conditions and even manual inputs from the driver through an “in-vehicle user interface”.
Enhancing and sustaining consistent downforce is undoubtedly a primary objective, but active aero offers additional advantages. Dodge’s system is engineered to function as an air brake during intense braking maneuvers or alter lift on the vehicle’s front end if the rear end becomes too
light. Moreover, the system includes individual flaps on each side of the grille to facilitate high-speed cornering.
While adaptable wings are currently prevalent in high-end supercars, they have primarily been featured at the rear rather than the front. Noteworthy examples include the Ferrari 12Cilindri, which incorporates aerodynamic flaps within the rear fascia, and the Porsche 911 GT3 RS equipped with a DRS-style rear wing.
Considering that the electric Charger has been unveiled without any reference to this technology, it is likely that if active aero is introduced into production, it will feature in the 700-hp Banshee variant. The key takeaway is that electric vehicle design can break away from the conventional mold for the sake of efficiency and range. The evolution of the R-Wing design from a pure aerodynamic necessity to a source of excitement signifies the evolving landscape of automotive engineering.
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