Electric Cars

The automotive landscape is constantly evolving, and sometimes, even the most promising projects face an unexpected halt. Such is the case for the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee, a vehicle once envisioned as the thrilling electric successor to the iconic Hellcat. This highly anticipated model, designed to carry the torch of muscle car performance into the electric age with an 800-volt platform, has reportedly been shelved, leaving many enthusiasts to wonder about the future direction of Dodge's high-performance lineup.

This reported cancellation is not an isolated incident but rather part of a larger strategic shift by Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge. Facing a market with less enthusiasm for battery-powered performance cars than anticipated and experiencing modest sales of its standard 400-volt Charger Daytona EV, Stellantis appears to be recalibrating its electrification plans across its American brands. This pivot has already seen the cessation of the Ram 1500 REV's development, initially intended to compete with Ford's electric Lightning, and the discontinuation of Jeep's Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid program. Concurrently, Stellantis has signaled a renewed commitment to internal combustion engines, reintroducing the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 in the 2026 Ram 1500 and confirming continued V8 power for the Dodge Durango, alongside hints at a Gladiator variant of the Wrangler Rubicon 392.

The reported demise of the Banshee suggests a strategic reorientation, emphasizing combustion engines for performance over a fully electric future. While Dodge is proceeding with its new Charger, featuring Hurricane six-cylinder engines under the SIXPACK branding, speculation remains regarding the potential reintroduction of a V8 option. This leaves an open question about whether a successor to the SRT Hellcat, powered by updated internal combustion technology, could emerge. The ongoing situation underscores the dynamic nature of the automotive industry's transition, as manufacturers adapt to market demands and technological challenges. The path forward for high-performance vehicles at Dodge seems increasingly rooted in its rich heritage of powerful engines, even as the industry explores new frontiers.

Experience Effortless Car Ownership: Hertz Drives Innovation in Used Vehicle Sales

Hertz Revolutionizes Used Car Acquisition with New Online Portal

On September 30, Hertz officially unveiled its proprietary online platform, a significant stride in simplifying the acquisition of pre-owned vehicles. This digital marketplace is designed to evolve beyond a mere inventory display, offering a comprehensive solution for customers across the United States. The company's goal is to demystify the used car purchasing process, empowering buyers to complete transactions, including trade-in assessments, monthly payment calculations, financing pre-qualifications, and optional protection plan selections, without ever leaving their residences.

Strategic Shift: Hertz Prioritizes Direct Retail Channels for Fleet Disposition

Gil West, CEO of Hertz, emphasized the pivotal role of this online launch in advancing the company's retail car sales business. This platform will serve as the primary conduit for divesting its retired rental fleet. Historically, vehicles from rental giants like Hertz and Enterprise were often channeled through auto auctions if not sold directly through their existing retail operations. This new direction signals a clear preference for direct customer engagement.

Reassurance for Buyers: Rigorous Inspections and Comprehensive Warranties from Hertz

Despite the common perception that former rental vehicles may have endured extensive use, Hertz is committed to ensuring buyer confidence. The company highlights that its certified vehicles are competitively priced, frequently below their Kelley Blue Book Suggested Retail Values. Each vehicle undergoes a meticulous 115-point inspection, complementing the post-rental checks already in place. Furthermore, these cars come with a 12-month/12,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, in addition to any residual factory warranty coverage.

Transparent Transactions: Detailed Reports and Customer-Centric Guarantees

To further enhance trust and transparency, Hertz provides comprehensive vehicle history and condition reports for every car on its platform. Buyers also benefit from 24-hour roadside assistance and a 7-day/250-mile buy-back guarantee. The company's website indicates that purchased vehicles can be collected at any Hertz Car Sales outlet or arranged for home delivery, offering unparalleled flexibility.

Expanding Reach: Synergy with Amazon Autos and National Availability

This latest announcement builds upon an earlier agreement established in August, enabling Hertz to sell vehicles through Amazon Autos. Initially, customers in key cities like Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Seattle could purchase cars via Amazon and pick them up locally. Hertz has now extended this program, making it accessible across all 45 Hertz Car Sales locations nationwide, significantly broadening its market presence.

Hertz's Bold Growth Strategy: Dominating the Direct Retail Landscape

The heightened focus on direct retail vehicle sales is integral to Hertz's aggressive new growth strategy, designed to optimize its operations and expand its footprint. The company's Q2 2025 earnings report revealed its highest retail vehicle sales volume in five years for that quarter, underscoring robust consumer demand and the efficacy of this new approach.

Market Impact and Promotional Endeavors: Hertz Challenges Competitors

Hertz's expansion into direct sales is poised to intensify competition within the used car market, potentially impacting rivals such as Carvana, whose shares reportedly saw a 3.4% decline following Hertz's announcement. To champion this new service, Hertz continues its collaboration with NFL icon Tom Brady, who will feature in a new advertising campaign broadcast during NFL games, further solidifying the brand's visibility and consumer appeal.