What's Happening?
Dodge has announced that its 2026 Durango R/T and Hellcat models will not be available for sale in 17 states due to emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). These states, which include California, New York, and Washington, follow CARB's stricter emissions regulations. The decision comes after the Trump Administration's rollback of federal fuel-economy regulations, which allowed Dodge to focus on V-8 engines for its Durango lineup. Despite this, CARB's standards remain in place, preventing the sale of the 6.4-liter 392 Hemi and 6.2-liter Hellcat engines in these states. Dodge is working with CARB to explore options for selling these models in all states.
Why It's Important?
The restriction on selling the Durango R/T and Hellcat models in CARB states highlights the ongoing tension between federal and state emissions regulations. While the Trump Administration's policies have eased federal standards, states like California continue to enforce stricter rules, impacting automakers' ability to sell certain models. This situation underscores the challenges faced by the automotive industry in balancing regulatory compliance with consumer demand for high-performance vehicles. The outcome of Dodge's negotiations with CARB could set a precedent for how automakers navigate emissions standards across different states.
What's Next?
Dodge plans to continue discussions with CARB to find a way to sell the Durango R/T and Hellcat models in all states. The company is also preparing to begin production of the Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak and open orders for the Durango R/T 392 by the end of the year. The automotive industry will be closely watching these developments, as they could influence future regulatory strategies and vehicle offerings.
