Fun Facts: Dodge

Dodge was established in the year 1900 as an auto parts company and then in the year 1915 as an automobiles corporation.

It was founded by John Francis Dodge and Horace Elgin Dodge and it as its headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

The Dodge Caravan is one of the first modern minivans and has been Dodge’s bestselling automobiles.

The current Chief Executive Officer for the company is Reid Bigland, who is responsible for all global Dodge operations.

The company was one of the biggest producers of war material during the Second World War, creating ambulances like the WC54 and other much needed vehicles at that time.

The pickup trucks as well as the medium and heavy trucks manufactured by Dodge are known to be very popular among the masses and the make is very recognizable.

Dodge’s range of ‘Adult Toys’ is a popular car line from the 1970s and included the models like the Lil’ Red Express pickup, which was eventually renamed as the Warlock.

Dodge has been known to manufacture pickup trucks for the United States of America Military in the 1970s and 1980s.

The key international markets where Dodge serves are Argentina, Asia, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Europe and Mexico.

Dodge’s famous slogans include ‘Never Neutral’, ‘Dodge. Different.’ & ‘Grab Life By The Horns’.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dodge:

Why is Dodge discontinuing the Charger and Challenger?

• Shift Towards Electrification:
  • The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Dodge’s parent company, Stellantis, is heavily investing in EV technology.   
  • Stricter emissions regulations worldwide are pushing automakers to produce more environmentally friendly vehicles.
  • Dodge is adapting to these changes by developing its own line of electric muscle cars, aiming to maintain the brand’s performance legacy.   
• Changing Consumer Preferences:
  • Consumer demand is shifting towards fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles, including EVs and SUVs.   
  • While muscle cars have a dedicated fan base, the broader market is prioritizing practicality, technology, and efficiency.
• Emissions Regulations:
  • Increasingly strict emissions standards make it challenging to continue producing high-performance, gasoline-powered vehicles like the Charger and Challenger.
  • These vehicles, especially the high-powered variants, have faced criticism for their environmental impact.

What is Dodge slang for?

• “Dodge” itself isn’t widely known as slang. However, within car enthusiast circles, especially those who enjoy muscle cars, “Dodge” represents a brand that is synonymous with high powered, American muscle cars. And within certain circles, the act of “dodging” can relate to avoiding something, or getting away quickly, which can relate to the high-performance nature of dodge vehicles.

What is the meaning of the word Dodge?

• The word “dodge” means to avoid something by moving quickly or suddenly. 
• It can also mean to evade or circumvent something, such as a responsibility or a question.

Why did Ram drop Dodge’s name?

• In 2009, Ram became a standalone brand, separating from Dodge. This strategic move was made by Chrysler (now Stellantis) to:
  • Focus Brand Identity:
    • To create a distinct identity for Ram trucks, emphasizing their ruggedness and utility.
    • To allow Dodge to focus on its performance-oriented cars.
  • Increase Brand recognition:
    • By making Ram a separate brand, it allowed for increased marketing, and public recognition of the Ram truck line.

   

In essence, the separation allowed each brand to specialize and cater to its specific target audience.