Hemi Energy May Return as Stellantis Reportedly Plans V8 Engine Revival : Automotive Addicts

Automotive

In a stunning twist that’s positive to thrill muscle automobile fanatics and truck loyalists alike, a brand new report claims Stellantis is getting ready to carry again manufacturing of its iconic Hemi V-8 engines later this yr. Based on Mopar Insiders, unnamed sources throughout the automaker say that the 5.7-liter, 6.4-liter, and even the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8s will as soon as once more roll off the traces at Stellantis’ Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan.

Whereas the present Dodge Durango and Jeep Wrangler 392 nonetheless make use of Hemi V-8s, different flagship automobiles within the Stellantis portfolio—just like the redesigned Charger and Ram 1500—have notably dropped the throaty eight-cylinder in favor of downsized or electrified powertrains. However evidently may quickly change.

Mopar Insiders stories that the engines might be constructed utilizing the well-established Gen III Hemi structure, which dates again to 2003. Apparently, there are whispers of a potential larger-displacement variant additionally becoming a member of the lineup. Whereas that is still speculative for now, the general shift marks a major change in route for Stellantis, particularly within the wake of former CEO Carlos Tavares’ departure in December. Tavares was reportedly the driving power behind discontinuing the Hemi—a transfer that drew criticism from traditionalists and efficiency followers alike.

With Tavares out, and with some softening of political and regulatory strain on emissions and electrification below the Trump administration’s new steerage, Stellantis seems to be responding to market demand and inner want to maintain the Hemi title alive. The administration has pushed to roll again EV incentives, revise gasoline economic system targets, and loosen regulatory oversight, giving automakers a bit extra respiratory room in relation to powertrain methods.

Even so, electrification isn’t going away—neither is it being ignored by Stellantis. However a balanced technique appears to be forming, one that features each hybrid/electrical choices and enthusiast-grade inner combustion. Earlier this yr, Motor1 spoke with Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, who didn’t shut the door on a Hemi return. He defined that whereas the present Hemi V-8s aren’t suitable with the brand new Ram 1500’s electrical structure, that solely “means you possibly can’t do it immediately”—not that it’s off the desk utterly.

If the report holds true, manufacturing of the naturally aspirated 5.7-liter Hemi may begin as quickly as August on the Dundee plant. That might mark a notable shift for Stellantis and probably sign a renaissance of V-8 efficiency in automobiles that had seemingly turned the web page.

For now, the automotive world might be watching intently. Whether or not it’s about nostalgia, functionality, or the uncooked attraction of an enormous, burly V-8, the Hemi nonetheless holds a particular place in American automobile tradition—and its return may supply Stellantis a robust alternative to reconnect with its roots.

Sources: Motor1 through Mopar Insiders