Vom Shitstorm zum Sound-Wunder? Der Elektro-Dodge Charger und sein kontroverser Klang

Dodge Charger Introduces New Electric "Exhaust" Sound That Surprisingly Exceeds Expectations

It’s definitely not the classic V8 and it feels a bit odd, yet it doesn’t sound as bad as one might think

The forthcoming all-electric Dodge Charger has sparked debate like few other recent vehicles. The iconic Hemi-V8 is gone and, to add to the shock, the car has been equipped with a synthetic "Fratzonic" exhaust noise, which so far hasn't won over the online community. However, opinions might be shifting.

The latest iteration of artificial engine noise, released this week, might just have the power to convert some skeptics. On Monday, the car manufacturer shared a video on Instagram showcasing the latest development of the Frantzonic Exhaust system. The footage features a Charger Daytona EV speeding through a tunnel, emitting sounds that closely resemble the classic V8 roar.

The sound quality has significantly deviated from what Dodge initially introduced with the Charger's launch in 2022. At the time, they faced a substantial backlash. In 2023, the American automaker altered the audio, creating something that resembles the sound of a genuine engine. Although improved, it still hasn't managed to truly win over potential customers.

Significant progress has been made, resulting in a sound that almost mimics a true V8, yet the online community remains skeptical. One user comments, "Lol we want real V8 sounds… not a speaker." Another states, "We still want HEMIs." Meanwhile, another commenter expresses, "I'd rather have no car than one of these."

Certainly, the issue arises as to whether an electric vehicle must forcibly attempt to mimic a sound that isn't authentic to its nature. Abarth gave it a shot with their 500e model by incorporating an external speaker designed to emulate the sound of their combustion-engine 595. Unfortunately, the outcome is more cringe-worthy than convincing, reminiscent of a gas engine stuck in second gear. The artificial noise quickly becomes irritating, leading drivers to turn it off almost immediately.

Dodge appears to have encountered similar challenges. The company has acknowledged its struggles with the Fratzonic exhaust ever since the vehicle was first unveiled to the public. "We've made 100 changes," CEO Tim Kuniskis told journalists in March. The setup employs speakers situated in a chamber resembling an exhaust to mimic the sound of an actual exhaust system.

Photo Gallery: 2025 Dodge Charger

Based on the public's response to the artificial engine noise produced by speakers, it's evident that most people are indifferent to whether an electric car mimics the sound of a traditional gasoline vehicle or not. Even if the Charger Daytona EV managed to replicate the sound of a Hellcat perfectly, the majority would remain unimpressed, aware that it's merely a simulation.

Almost akin to having an M-badge on a BMW 320i. Those who pay attention understand that there's been some deception involved. We're quite eager to see how this issue unfolds.

Further Details on the Upcoming Charger

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