In a significant boost for Canada's automotive industry, Stellantis has officially begun production of the new gasoline-powered Dodge Charger muscle car at its Windsor Assembly Plant. The automaker announced the start of production on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the local manufacturing hub.
A Milestone for Windsor and Stellantis
The first 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack models, featuring powerful two-door designs, are scheduled to arrive at dealerships before the end of the month. This launch represents the expansion of the multi-energy Charger family, which initially debuted with battery-electric versions earlier in the year.
"Today marks a proud milestone for Stellantis, the Dodge brand and our Canadian team," stated Trevor Longley, President and CEO of Stellantis Canada. He emphasized that the Windsor-assembled Charger offers customers the "freedom to choose" between internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery-electric vehicle (BEV) powertrains.
Power, Performance, and Major Job Creation
The new gas-powered lineup introduces two high-performance SIXPACK engines, rated at 420 and 550 horsepower, available in both two-door and four-door body styles. This move signals Stellantis's continued strategy to offer traditional performance vehicles alongside their electrified counterparts.
To meet the anticipated demand for the Charger models and the Chrysler minivan family, which includes the Pacifica, Stellantis plans to hire up to 1,500 new workers. This hiring surge will support the return of a third production shift at the Windsor plant, expected to commence in early 2026.
The hiring process began internally in late September, offering first rights to Stellantis workers currently on layoff in Brampton, as per the collective agreement with Unifor. Once those internal transfers are complete, the remaining positions will be opened to the public.
Recognition for Award-Winning Manufacturing
Dodge CEO Matt McAlear praised the work of the Unifor-represented employees in Windsor, noting that the new Charger lineup has already garnered several prestigious awards. These include spots on the Ward's 10 Best Interiors and 10 Best Propulsion Systems lists, as well as a MotorWeek Drivers' Choice award.
This production launch and associated job growth come as welcome news for the Canadian auto sector, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. The investment and expansion in Windsor underscore a tangible commitment to manufacturing within the region, blending iconic muscle car heritage with modern automotive innovation.
