For decades, Dodge has been a cornerstone of American motorsports, carving its name into the history books of NASCAR with iconic cars like the Charger and Challenger. Fans have long fondly remembered the moments when legendary drivers like Richard Petty and Brad Keselowski roared to victory under the Dodge banner. But in 2012, Dodge officially withdrew from NASCAR, leaving many fans wondering, “Is Dodge returning to NASCAR?” This article explores the brand’s storied racing history, the reasons behind its exit, and the growing anticipation surrounding a potential return.
The Legacy of Dodge in NASCAR
Early Years and Rise to Prominence
Dodge’s association with NASCAR began in the early 1950s, with its powerful engines and innovative designs quickly gaining attention on the track. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, Dodge vehicles were dominating the sport, especially with the introduction of the Dodge Charger Daytona and Plymouth Superbird—cars engineered specifically for aerodynamic superiority. These vehicles were so successful that NASCAR eventually changed its rules, signaling a significant impact from Dodge on the racing landscape.
Modern Era Success with Team Penske
In the 2000s, Dodge made a strong comeback through its partnership with Team Penske. Drivers like Kurt Busch and Brad Keselowski piloted Dodge Chargers to numerous wins, including Keselowski’s 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship. That season, Dodge claimed the manufacturer’s title as well, making its departure from the sport at the end of that year even more surprising to fans.
Why Did Dodge Leave NASCAR?
Dodge’s exit from NASCAR in 2012 was not due to a lack of success, but rather a strategic business decision. The brand was undergoing a restructuring within Chrysler (now Stellantis), and its leadership decided to focus on fewer vehicle models and marketing strategies. Additionally, Dodge shifted its focus to international racing series and its performance division, SRT, which prioritized road courses and drag racing. This left room for other manufacturers like Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota to dominate the sport unchallenged.
What Has Happened Since 2012?
Avoiding Official Competition, But Remaining in the Spotlight
Despite leaving as an official manufacturer in NASCAR, Dodge has maintained a presence in the motorsport community through sponsorships and collaborations. For example, Dodge has partnered with Richard Petty Motorsports, supplying engines and branding the No. 43 car as the “Dodge//SRT Hellcat.”
This special branding campaign has been wildly popular among fans, and during these collaborations, the car has run competitively, often finishing in the top-10 and occasionally challenging for wins. However, Stellantis (Dodge’s parent company) has not officially funded or supported a full-time manufacturer program since 2012.
Dodge’s Continued Commitment to Performance Vehicles
While no longer in NASCAR, Dodge has doubled down on performance outside the stock car arena. The Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger have become legends in their own right, especially with the introduction of the Hellcat and Demon engines. These cars dominated quarter-mile drag racing and generated enormous buzz, further cementing Dodge’s place in American automotive culture.
In 2023, Dodge rebranded its performance division as “Dodge//SRT,” signaling a desire to maintain its performance legacy even with the electrification of the automotive industry looming.
Is Dodge Returning to NASCAR? The Rumors and Hints
Executive Statements and Strategic Moves
Over the years, various executives from Stellantis have hinted at a potential return of Dodge to NASCAR. In 2021, Mike Manley, then CEO of Stellantis, stated that while there were no immediate plans, the return of Dodge was not “off the table.” In 2023, Dodge brand head Tim Kuniskis also mentioned that the brand would consider returning “if the opportunity was right.”
These remarks, though non-committal, have fueled speculation among both fans and racing analysts.
Partnership Possibilities
If Dodge were to return, the most likely partner would be Penske Racing or Richard Petty Motorsports, both of which have worked with the brand in the past. Penske, in particular, was instrumental in Dodge’s success in the 2000s. A return with Penske could potentially bring factory support and competitive cars quickly to the track.
Electrification and Future of NASCAR
Another factor that might influence Dodge’s decision is the direction NASCAR is taking with its race vehicles. With growing interest in electrification and hybrid technology, some automakers are exploring the possibility of electric NASCAR vehicles. However, Dodge has remained committed to the combustion engine, at least for now. In a 2023 interview, Kuniskis stated, “We won’t electrify the Charger until it’s ready to be electrified without compromise.”
This stance suggests that Dodge is waiting for the right moment—both technologically and strategically—to make a full-scale return to competitive motorsports.
Why Would Dodge Return to NASCAR Now?
To Reconnect with a Large and Loyal Fan Base
NASCAR remains the most-watched motorsport in the U.S., and Dodge has a massive base of fans that followed them during their 2000s success. Fans crave excitement, heritage, and brand identity, which Dodge has in spades. A return to NASCAR would not only excite those loyalists but also introduce younger fans to the brand, potentially boosting sales and brand relevance.
To Showcase New Performance Models Like the Charger Daytona SRT
Dodge has announced its first electric performance vehicle—the Charger Daytona SRT—set to debut in 2024. Despite being electric, the Charger Daytona is being pitched as a performance beast, and Dodge has made it clear it plans to use racing as a proving ground, much like in the 1970s.
This makes a potential NASCAR return strategically relevant, especially if the car can be adapted to fit within evolving NASCAR regulations.
Speculation Around Electric Stock Car Racing
While traditional NASCAR remains gasoline-powered, the series is exploring hybrid and electric alternatives. Although NASCAR competition rules currently favor internal combustion engines (ICE), the inclusion of electric vehicles in the future is inevitable. Dodge’s decision to build an electric muscle car might be tied to its desire to race it, even if that racing series is still in development.
What Would Dodge Need to Return to NASCAR?
Strategic Investment Plans and Budget Allocation
NASCAR racing, even at a manufacturer level, requires a significant investment. According to industry estimates, a full return with factory support would require hundreds of millions of dollars in development, testing, and team partnerships. However, given Dodge’s high-performance halo status, the brand might be able to attract sponsorships and partnerships to offset the costs.
Regulatory and Series Framework Changes
NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car in 2022 with the goal of modernizing the sport and reducing costs for teams. The rules now allow more flexibility in engine development and future electrification. This shift may be favorable for a brand like Dodge, which wants to bring cutting-edge tech to the track.
Partnership with an Experienced Team
To be competitive right away, Dodge would need to partner with an established team. Possibilities could include:
- Team Penske
- Joe Gibbs Racing
- Richard Childress Racing
- Richard Petty Motorsports
Richard Petty, a longtime brand ambassador for Dodge, has publicly stated that he’d welcome their return with open arms and is confident that Dodge could be competitive immediately.
What Are the Obstacles for a Dodge Return?
Financial Viability and Budget Constraints
While Dodge has the brand recognition to return, it also faces competition from automakers like Chevrolet and Ford, who have invested heavily in the sport over the years. A return would require not just short-term investment, but long-term commitment to be taken seriously as a manufacturer in the series.
Manufacturing and Development Timelines
Dodge is currently focused on the launch of its all-electric Charger Daytona. While this car has the potential to be adapted for racing, it’s unclear when that might happen. NASCAR’s current technical regulations are ICE-focused, meaning that any electric racing return would likely be years away.
Market Strategy and Brand Focus
Dodge’s parent company, Stellantis, owns several other brands including Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, and Ram. Each brand has its own market and motorsport focus. Jeep, for example, is expanding in off-road racing, and Ram has taken over full-time from Dodge in NASCAR since 2012. Stellantis may not want to create internal competition unless it provides clear strategic benefits.
A Comparative Look at Other Brands Returning or Entering NASCAR
| Brand | Previous NASCAR Role | Years Out of NASCAR | Return Date | Key Drivers | Current Success |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | Factory Team | Never left | N/A | William Byron, Kyle Larson | Maintains top-tier competitiveness |
| Ford | Factory Support | Never left | N/A | Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano | Frequent winner and cup contender |
| Toyota | New Entry | 2007 | 2007 | Kyle Busch, Martin Truex Jr. | Multiple Cup Championships |
| Ram | Never factory-backed | Never competed | 2013–2023 (Trucks Series) | Various Truck Drivers | Won multiple Truck races |
Ford and Chevrolet have maintained their factory presence consistently, while Toyota became a key new entrant around 2007 and is now a dominant force. This shows that even latecomers can build sustainable success, which adds optimism to the idea of Dodge’s potential comeback.
The Fan Sentiment and Community Hype Surrounding Dodge in NASCAR
Perhaps the most compelling indicator of a potential Dodge return is the excitement from fans. In recent years, social media has exploded with petition drives, fan-made renderings, and hopeful commentary about Dodge racing again.
The “Let’s Go Racing” campaign with Richard Petty Motorsports in 2021 and 2022 created incredible momentum. Fans responded overwhelmingly positively to the idea of seeing Dodge on the track again, even if it was through a partial sponsorship model. Merchandise sales for these special edition races soared, and the 43-car became one of the most popular in the garage for fan appearances.
Dodge also used the “Blue Oval Battle” marketing to pitch Ford vs. Dodge matchups, reigniting interest in the rivalry between the two brands that had dominated the late 2000s and early 2010s.
This grassroots enthusiasm is significant. In motorsport, fan engagement drives sponsorships, partnerships, and marketing opportunities—potentially influencing Stellantis executives to re-enter the series.
Conclusion: Is Dodge Officially Returning to NASCAR?
As of early 2025, Dodge has not officially announced its return to NASCAR in the Cup Series as a manufacturer. However, the groundwork—both technical and strategic—is being laid. The Charger Daytona SRT is the key puzzle piece and will likely debut in performance events and possibly in road racing or drag racing series before taking aim at NASCAR.
Ultimately, the decision rests on several key factors:
- Does NASCAR adopt electric or hybrid racing in the near term?
- Will the Charger Daytona SRT perform strongly enough during testing?
- Are fans and sponsors supportive of a full-time Dodge return?
- Can Dodge align its performance and marketing goals with motorsport investment?
Whether it’s two years or five years down the road, the automotive world eagerly awaits a potential return of the Dodge nameplate to the high-speed thrills of NASCAR. If the opportunity aligns, there’s little doubt that Dodge could once again become one of the sport’s most dominant and exciting brands.
For now, the question isn’t “if” Dodge will return to NASCAR, but “when.” And when they do—fans and racers alike better be ready for 400 horsepower, aggressive styling, and the iconic sound of a HEMI engine echoing through oval tracks across the nation.
Stay Updated: Follow Dodge and NASCAR for Future Developments
To stay ahead of the latest developments, fans should:
- Follow Dodge’s official website and Social Media channels.
- Track Team Penske and Richard Petty Motorsports for possible new partnerships.
- Subscribe to NASCAR press releases and technical updates for Next Gen and future series rule packages.
With electrification, evolving regulations, and rising fan enthusiasm, NASCAR may be standing at the edge of a new era—and Dodge might be just around the corner.
Is Dodge currently participating in NASCAR?
As of the most recent NASCAR Cup Series seasons, Dodge is not actively competing as a manufacturer in the premier division of NASCAR. The brand withdrew from the series at the conclusion of the 2012 season, opting to focus on other motorsport ventures and product development. While Dodge vehicles have occasionally appeared in lower-tier series or in collector displays, the manufacturer has not maintained an official, full-time presence on the track since its departure nearly a decade ago.
However, the possibility of a return has sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike. NASCAR has seen shifting manufacturer dynamics in recent years, with brands like Toyota and soon, Andretti Autosport (in partnership with General Motors), entering or planning entries into the sport. This evolving landscape has prompted speculation about Dodge potentially rejoining the fray, particularly given its storied history and passionate fanbase. Still, no official announcements have been made regarding Dodge’s re-entry into the Cup Series.
Why did Dodge leave NASCAR in 2012?
Dodge’s decision to leave NASCAR in 2012 was primarily driven by business and strategic considerations rather than a lack of competitiveness. The company, under the umbrella of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) at the time, chose to shift its focus and investment toward other racing platforms and automotive markets. Additionally, Dodge was facing declining sales in the passenger car segment, which prompted a reallocation of resources toward more profitable areas, such as trucks and SUVs.
Another key factor was the high costs associated with maintaining a competitive presence in NASCAR, especially in the absence of a flagship team or consistent success at the highest level. While Dodge had enjoyed victories—most notably with teams like Penske Racing and drivers like Brad Keselowski—the brand struggled to maintain consistent dominance. FCA sought to preserve its financial resources for other priorities, including the development of its next-generation vehicles and the emerging global markets.
What was Dodge’s legacy in NASCAR?
Dodge has a rich and storied legacy in NASCAR, dating back to the early days of stock car racing. The brand played a pivotal role in shaping the sport’s competitive dynamics, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, with iconic models like the Dodge Charger and Dodge Daytona pushing the boundaries of aerodynamic design. These cars became synonymous with speed and innovation, often dominating races and sparking rivalries that helped define the golden age of NASCAR.
In the modern era, Dodge returned to NASCAR in 2001, forming strategic partnerships with teams like Penske Racing, Evernham Motorsports, and later Richard Petty Motorsports. Notable victories include Brad Keselowski’s 2009 Nationwide Series title and his breakthrough wins. Despite never securing a Cup Series championship, Dodge consistently contributed to memorable moments on the track, earning respect from fans and competitors alike for its performance-focused engineering and racing heritage.
Has Dodge made any recent moves that suggest a potential NASCAR return?
Dodge has not made any explicit moves toward returning to NASCAR, but there have been signs of renewed interest in motorsport activities and performance branding. The company recently repositioned itself as a hybrid brand under Stellantis, focusing on performance vehicles under the Dodge//SRT banner. The launch of high-performance models like the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Concept—a modern electric tribute to the classic aero cars—has generated buzz and led to questions about Dodge’s racing ambitions.
Additionally, Stellantis as a company has not ruled out participation in NASCAR, especially as it continues to evolve its motorsport strategies. NASCAR’s shift toward modernizing its image, including embracing sustainability and attracting new manufacturers, could make a return more appealing. However, until there is an official statement or entry agreement, any return remains speculative.
What would it take for Dodge to return to NASCAR successfully?
For Dodge to return to NASCAR successfully, several strategic elements would need to align. Primarily, the brand would need to establish a strong partnership with a competitive team that has the infrastructure and expertise to develop and support a manufacturer program effectively. Success in NASCAR often hinges on long-term commitment and significant investment, so Dodge would also need to allocate substantial financial resources toward research, development, engineering, and on-track support.
Additionally, a return would require a clear branding and marketing strategy that leverages Dodge’s iconic legacy while positioning the brand forward in an evolving motorsport landscape. Developing a new generation of race cars under NASCAR’s Next Gen platform and possibly aligning with the sport’s sustainability initiatives could help Dodge appeal to both traditional and new fans. Moreover, securing driver talent and fostering youth development pipelines, such as through the ARCA Menards Series or other developmental circuits, would be essential.
How do fans feel about Dodge returning to NASCAR?
Dodge fans have largely welcomed speculation about a potential NASCAR return with enthusiasm and nostalgia. Many fans of the brand remember the Charger’s aero dominance in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as its modern-era contributions through teams like Penske and RPM. For these enthusiasts, having Dodge back in the Cup Series would represent not just a return of a competitive manufacturer, but also a continuation of the brand’s deep-rooted racing tradition.
In online forums, social media, and fan communities, there are frequent calls for Dodge to re-enter, often accompanied by discussions about how the brand could impact the competition and increase diversity among manufacturers. Events like throwback weekends featuring classic Dodge race cars have also been met with excitement, suggesting that fans are eager to see the brand’s name back on the track in a full-time capacity.
What are the potential challenges for Dodge returning to NASCAR?
There are several challenges Dodge could face if it were to consider a full return to NASCAR. One of the primary obstacles is the current lack of dedicated factory support teams that could sustain a manufacturer program. NASCAR teams are complex operations that require significant investment and access to skilled engineering and technical resources—areas that Dodge would need to develop or partner in.
Another challenge is the rapidly evolving nature of both the sport and automotive technology. NASCAR’s Next Gen car represents a significant shift in racing dynamics, and future regulations may include more emphasis on alternative fuels, hybrid or electric powertrains, and cost controls. Dodge would have to navigate these changes carefully to remain relevant and compliant. Additionally, competing against established manufacturers like Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota—each with deep-rooted partnerships and histories—presents a steep competitive hurdle.