Recent shifts within Stellantis, following changes in leadership, have sparked significant adjustments in the company’s strategies. These include revised pricing approaches and a re-evaluation of electrification plans. Amidst these changes, a surprising development has emerged: the beloved 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine might be granted a new lease on life, extending its availability in models like the Dodge Durango, according to inside sources. This news has ignited discussions among automotive enthusiasts, particularly those passionate about the roar and power of a classic V8, specifically the Dodge Hemi.
Whispers circulating online over the past month have suggested a potential comeback for the 5.7-liter HEMI in the Ram 1500. This is noteworthy as the engine was officially slated to be phased out for the 2025 model year, making way for the more modern and powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 engines. While such rumors have been present, concrete verification remained elusive until recently.
5.7-liter HEMI® V8 Production Revival at Dundee Engine Plant?
Credible sources have now indicated a development that could thrill Mopar aficionados and substantiate the speculation around the HEMI’s resurgence. Previously, the 5.7-liter HEMI engine was manufactured at Stellantis’ Saltillo Engine Plant in Mexico. However, production there ceased to accommodate the increasing demand for HURRICANE I6 engine production. While the Dodge Durango currently benefits from a stock of pre-manufactured 5.7-liter HEMI engines, the general expectation was that once these reserves were depleted, the HEMI era would conclude.
However, a recent tip from a trusted source suggests a significant shift in plans. Stellantis is reportedly gearing up to restart production of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. Interestingly, the new production site is rumored to be the Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan. This would mark a notable change, as it would be the first instance in many years that a Mopar V8 engine is produced within the United States. This development lends considerable weight to the theory that the HEMI engine will indeed return to the Ram 1500 lineup, offering enthusiasts continued access to this iconic powerplant.
Before exploring the broader implications for Stellantis and the Ram brand, it’s beneficial to understand the Dundee Engine Plant’s recent history and its evolving role within Stellantis’ powertrain strategy.
Dundee Engine Plant: From Pentastar V6 to Potential HEMI Production
The Dundee Engine Plant has been a key facility in Stellantis’ North American operations. In February 2019, under the then-Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), a substantial $119 million investment was announced to retool the Dundee plant for the production of the Pentastar V6 engine family. This initiative was a crucial part of a larger $4.5 billion investment aimed at modernizing five Michigan-based facilities. At the time, this modernization effort was projected to generate approximately 6,500 new jobs within the region. Dundee swiftly adapted to its new mandate, commencing Pentastar engine production in November 2019, playing a significant role in this wave of manufacturing transformation.
Preparing Dundee for Next-Gen Hybrid Engine and Now Possibly HEMI
The Dundee plant’s evolution continued into the hybrid and electric vehicle era. In August 2022, Stellantis unveiled further investment plans, allocating $99 million across three North American plants to facilitate the production of a cutting-edge 1.6-liter, I-4 turbocharged engine. A significant portion of this investment, nearly $83 million, was earmarked for transforming the Dundee Engine Complex into the final assembly location for this new powertrain. This next-generation engine, engineered with direct fuel injection and hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) compatibility, is based on an existing European engine design. It is intended to power two forthcoming North American HEV models, including the next generation Jeep® Cherokee. This marked Stellantis’ initial foray into HEV engine production within North America, with production scheduled to begin in early 2025.
As Dundee prepared for its hybrid future, it also marked the end of production for some legacy engines. The final 2.4-liter Tigershark I4 engine was produced on March 16, 2023, followed by the last 3.6-liter Pentastar Upgrade V6 engine on August 18, 2023, signaling Stellantis’ shift towards newer engine technologies and electrification.
Electrification and the Potential Coexistence with the Dodge HEMI
More recently, in September 2024, Stellantis announced an additional investment exceeding $73 million to further retool the Dundee facility. This latest funding is designated to equip the plant for assembling, welding, and testing battery trays for the innovative STLA Frame architecture. Furthermore, it will enable the machining of front and rear beams crucial for the upcoming STLA Large architecture. This development further solidified Dundee’s expanding role in the company’s overarching electrification strategy, supporting the platforms for future electric vehicles.
However, the rumor of 5.7-liter Dodge HEMI V8 engine production restarting in Dundee adds an intriguing layer to the plant’s future. If confirmed, it would suggest a dual focus for Dundee: supporting both the electric vehicle revolution and the continued demand for powerful V8 engines like the HEMI.
Return of V8 Engine Production to America and its Implications
If the latest information proves accurate, restarting Dodge HEMI V8 production at Dundee would signify the first time in nearly 16 years that Chrysler has manufactured a V8 engine in the United States. The Dundee Engine Plant’s location is strategically advantageous for 5.7-liter HEMI production, given its proximity to Sterling Heights Assembly (where the Ram 1500 is assembled) and Jefferson Assembly (home of the Dodge Durango). This geographical closeness would streamline logistics and potentially reduce transportation costs.
This potential development not only lends credibility to the rumors of the HEMI V8’s return to the Ram 1500 but also strengthens the likelihood of production shifting to Dundee. It suggests that while Stellantis is aggressively pursuing electrification, they are also acknowledging the enduring appeal and market demand for their iconic V8 engines, particularly the Dodge HEMI.
The Future Outlook for the 5.7-liter Dodge HEMI V8 Engine
While the prospect of continued Dodge HEMI V8 engine production is exciting news for many, it’s important to maintain a balanced perspective. It is unlikely that the 5.7-liter HEMI will reappear in models where it was not previously offered. The expectation is that it will continue to be available in the Dodge Durango and Ram 1500. There is also speculation, though less likely, about a possible return to the Grand Cherokee, especially as rumors suggest the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 might be replaced by the updated turbocharged 2.0-liter GME-T4 EVO I4 engine for the 2026 model year.
Sources indicate that the HEMI V8 could return to the 2026 Ram 1500 as a base engine option, positioned below the HURRICANE I6 engines in lower trim levels. Furthermore, the possibility of “HEMI Special Editions” being introduced should not be ruled out, catering to enthusiasts seeking the V8 experience. According to inside information, production is anticipated to commence in the third quarter of this year.
Despite calls from some enthusiasts for a V8 option in the new Dodge Charger, it’s not expected that the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 will find its way under its hood. The vehicle’s design and performance strategy likely prioritize the HURRICANE I6 engines, making the HEMI a less suitable fit in that particular model.
In conclusion, the potential restart of Dodge HEMI V8 engine production at the Dundee Engine Plant represents a fascinating intersection of Stellantis’ commitment to electrification and its recognition of the enduring legacy and appeal of the HEMI V8. For fans of American muscle and the distinctive rumble of a V8, particularly the Dodge HEMI, this news offers a glimmer of hope that this iconic engine will continue to power their favorite trucks and SUVs for years to come.
