Dodge's latest all-electric Charger has stirred up controversy. The iconic Hemi V-8 engine has been replaced, and in its place, a simulated "Fratzonic" exhaust sound has been introduced, which hasn't won over the online community. This week, however, the company unveiled an updated version of the sound, hoping to sway some opinions. On Monday, Dodge shared a video on Instagram showcasing the newest iteration of the Fratzonic exhaust. The video features a Charger Daytona EV roaring through a tunnel, emitting a sound reminiscent of a traditional V-8 engine. This new sound is a significant improvement from the initial version introduced in 2022, which was widely criticized. In 2023, Dodge modified the sound to more closely resemble an actual engine, though it still failed to impress potential buyers. Despite the latest version sounding nearly identical to a genuine V-8, it hasn't convinced the internet. Comments like "Lol we want real V-8 noises... not a speaker," and "We still want HEMIs," reflect the public's dissatisfaction. Some even expressed a preference for no car over one with the new system. Dodge has openly discussed the challenges with the Fratzonic exhaust since its debut. CEO Tim Kuniskis admitted to reporters in March that the company had revised the sound numerous times. The system employs a speaker, or speakers, installed within a chamber designed to mimic an exhaust system, to replicate the sound of a real engine. The public's reaction to this artificial exhaust system suggests that people are indifferent to whether an electric car mimics the sound of a conventional car. Even if the Charger Daytona EV perfectly replicates the sound of a Hellcat, it won't convince enthusiasts who know it's not authentic. It's akin to placing an M badge on a non-M BMW; only those who value the badge will recognize it as a fake. Similarly, those who care about the exhaust sound from a Charger EV will know it's not genuine.
Text: Lara Palmer
06.08.2024
The all-electric Charger's 'Fratzonic' exhaust fails to convince critics despite updates.