{"id":1952,"date":"2026-04-13T16:52:56","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T16:52:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/netherlands\/1952\/"},"modified":"2026-04-13T16:52:56","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T16:52:56","slug":"stellantis-wanted-to-save-hemi-v8-but-tavares-shut-it-down","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/netherlands\/1952\/","title":{"rendered":"Stellantis Wanted To Save HEMI\u00ae V8\u2014But Tavares Shut It Down"},"content":{"rendered":"

The HEMI\u00ae V8 engine<\/a> has long been a cornerstone of Stellantis brands like Chrysler<\/a>, Dodge<\/a>, Jeep\u00ae<\/a>, and Ram<\/a>, beloved by enthusiasts for its raw power and iconic performance. However, according to multiple insider sources, the decision to phase out the HEMI was not unanimous\u2014it was driven by former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares<\/a> despite widespread resistance within the company.<\/p>\n

Internal Push to Save the HEMI \u2013\u00a0
\n\"\"2023 Dodge Charger SRT HELLCAT Redeye Jailbreak.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverybody wanted to keep the HEMI,\u201d said one source close to Stellantis\u2019 North American operations. \u201cEngineers, marketers, and even executives in the U.S. knew how important it was for our customers. But Tavares didn\u2019t want to hear it. He was fixated on cutting emissions and improving margins.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sources claim that a plan dating back to 2019 was a balanced evolution: gradually replacing the aging 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter naturally aspirated HEMI engines with the new twin-turbocharged Hurricane I6 engines while retaining the supercharged HEMI V8 for high-performance models. The HEMI V8, particularly in its supercharged HELLCAT and HELLCAT Redeye configurations, was central to the identity of vehicles like the Dodge Challenger, Charger, Durango, and Jeep\u00ae Grand Cherokee.<\/p>\n

Despite their popularity, Tavares reportedly saw the engines as a financial and regulatory burden, prioritizing electrification and more fuel-efficient powertrains, such as the twin-turbocharged Hurricane I6.<\/p>\n

The Cost of Green Ambitions \u2013\u00a0
\n\"\"2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 in B5 Blue.<\/p>\n

The shift away from the HEMI was part of a broader cost-cutting strategy under Tavares\u2019 Dare Forward 2030 plan<\/a>. This plan aimed to achieve double-digit profit margins while aggressively transitioning Stellantis toward electric vehicles (EVs) to comply with stricter global emissions standards.<\/p>\n

One insider elaborated, \u201cTavares didn\u2019t want to keep buying emissions credits from Tesla, and he saw the HEMI as an unnecessary liability. But removing it without fully prepared replacements alienated a lot of loyal customers.\u201d<\/p>\n

This decision proved controversial, particularly in the U.S., Stellantis\u2019 largest and most profitable market. \u201cIf you\u2019re selling performance vehicles in America, you need a V8,\u201d another source noted.<\/p>\n

Backlash from Dealers and Fans \u2013\u00a0
\n\"\"2024 Dodge Durango SRT392 AlcHEMI\u00ae.<\/p>\n

The decision to phase out the HEMI also strained relationships with dealers and fans. Many dealers felt the loss of the HEMI hurt their ability to sell key models. One Dodge dealer remarked, \u201cThe HEMI was a selling point\u2014it brought people into showrooms. Customers didn\u2019t want a turbocharged six-cylinder as a replacement for a roaring V8.\u201d<\/p>\n

Fans also voiced their disappointment, with one enthusiast posting on social media, \u201cThe HEMI isn\u2019t just an engine; it\u2019s a legacy. Stellantis is throwing away what makes their cars special.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Fallout \u2013\u00a0
\n\"\"2023 Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition.\u00a0<\/p>\n

By 2024, Stellantis faced declining sales in North America, with global sales down 17% in the first nine months of the year. The absence of HEMI-powered vehicles, rising prices, and limited EV adoption played a significant role in the downturn.<\/p>\n

The situation ultimately contributed to Tavares\u2019 resignation on December 1, 2024<\/a>. While Stellantis has not publicly commented on the specifics of the decision, insiders suggest the board\u2019s dissatisfaction with Tavares\u2019 handling of U.S. operations was a major factor.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s Next for Stellantis? \u2013\u00a0
\n\"20212023 Jeep\u00ae Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392.<\/p>\n

With Tavares out, there is growing speculation about whether Stellantis will revisit its powertrain strategy. Tim Kuniskis<\/a>, a veteran leader known for championing HEMI-powered vehicles like the Dodge HELLCAT, has been rehired to oversee the Ram brand, raising hopes among enthusiasts.<\/p>\n

\u201cBringing back Kuniskis is a signal,\u201d said one source. \u201cIt shows Stellantis understands the importance of performance in their lineup. But whether it\u2019s too late to bring back the HEMI is anyone\u2019s guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

For now, the legacy of the HEMI V8 remains alive in fans\u2019 hearts and in the dwindling inventory of Stellantis dealerships.<\/p>\n

Source: CNBC<\/a><\/p>\n

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