The automobile brand Dodge is reputed in the market for rolling-off durable vehicles equipped with technologically advanced and innovative features. The brand is credited for its sports and muscle car series like Charger and Challenger. Apart from its lineup, there are other interesting events in the history of this century old brand.
Let’s discuss some interesting facts about Dodge that every car enthusiast must know.
History of Dodge
The automobile brand Dodge was founded in 1913 by two brothers John Francis Dodge and Horace Elgin Dodge. Their career started from manufacturing ball-bearings for the bicycle, which was later converted into a bicycle manufacturing company.
After a successful cycle manufacturing company, the Dodge brothers sold the company and started their machine shop in Detroit. Here, they sold and manufactured automobile parts for some of the most successful automobile brands of that time. The journey of the Dodge automobile brand was also initiated at that time.
13 Dodge Facts that You Must Know
Dodge has covered a long journey since its initiation in Detroit, USA. It is currently counted among one of the most popular used American car brands in the UAE. Other than the obvious, here are the complete details of Dodge facts and history.
The Partnership of Dodge and Ford
As mentioned above, in the early days, the Dodge brothers used to manufacture auto parts for famous automobile brands including Ford. At that time, they were known for manufacturing engines and transmissions for Ford.
Henry Ford wasn’t able to pay the Dodge brothers all the amount in cash: hence, he offered them shares of Ford Motor Company as a payment. Later in 1919, the Dodge brothers sold these shares back to Henry worth $25million. Unfortunately, the Dodge brothers died in 1920, only a few years after launching their own brand.
The First Dodge Model 30 was Built on Steel Frame
The first vehicle of the Dodge Model 30 was launched in 1914. It was a four-cylinder touring car with a sliding gear transmission and was completely manufactured from steel. The body was unique at that time, as the majority of vehicles were manufactured on wood frames.
Along with a steel body, the car featured a hexagonal window which was also rare in vehicles at that time.
Dodge’s Create War Vehicles in WWII
Dodge actively participated in WWII by manufacturing military vehicles for the US Army. The brand also manufactures engines and other supplies for Boeing’s heavy bomber.
The most interesting Dodge history fact is that it was part of the first mechanical cavalry in history. Lt. George Patton Jr marched over the Pancho Villa with three Dodge touring cars and 15 soldiers.
Dodge Manufacture Winter Vehicles
Dodge is counted among a few pioneer companies that forwarded the concept of winterised vehicles. Dodged rolled-off winter vehicle with a removable hardtop and snap-on side glasses. The continuous innovation in the design and car body types, supports Dodge in gaining a separate identity in the market.
Dodge Made a Women’s Car
The automobile brand Dodge designed a car, especially for women in 1955. The exterior of the car was two-toned and generally painted pink and white. Whereas, the interior was decorated with printed upholstery. The car also came in with a purse attached to the seat.
Dodge Motorsports
Dodge has actively participated in NASCAR since 1966. The brand has participated in a number of races, with its sports car model series. Dodge also made modifications in their vehicle to cater to the requirements of the event. However, after 2012, Dodge pull-off from all the NASCAR events.
Dodge’s Launched its Adult Toy Range
During the 1970s Dodge launched a series of vehicles named the Adult Toy Range. The range included mini-trucks that featured a muscle car exterior and an efficient engine. The purpose of this range was to introduce a hybrid or muscle cars and mini-trucks.
The exterior of these trucks resembles that of muscle cars like Charger, but the car frame was of a mini-truck.
Dodge’s Lineup of Sport Cars
Dodge is reputed all across the globe for its sports car lineup. The brand has launched a number of model series that are specifically known for their speed and sporty exterior.
The first model series in this category was the Dodge Charger which was introduced in 1964. This two-door muscle car series is known for its efficient V8 engine that can generate a total of 470hp. The popularity of this model series can be gauged from the fact that to date 11 generations of Dodge Charger are released on the market.
The next ones in line is the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Viper, both of these model series are known for higher speed, muscled exterior and comfortable interior. These sports car model series are credited for introducing and representing Dodge in many countries.
The Ultimate Dodge Challenger
Challenger is considered one of the most iconic model series launched by Dodge. The car debuted in the 1970s with a high-performance V8 engine. Moreover, a number of optional features like: a shaker hood scoop, selected paint colours, and dual exhausts.
The car was and is in fact one of the most popular used American car models in the UAE. The core reason for its popularity is that Challenger has maintained the exterior of its car and every generation somewhat resembles the previous one.
Dodge Featured Challenger Hellcat with Two Keys
The most amazing Dodge Challenger fact is that it featured two keys, a red and a black key. The red key was used when driving a vehicle at a higher speed. It automatically adjusted the traction, transmission and steering as per the speed of the vehicle.
Whereas, the black key was used when minimum power was required. The black key limits the engine power and RPM is kept below 4,000. Moreover, the first gear was kept out of the transmission to limit the speed.
The Ultimate Dodge RAM Pick-Up Trucks
Dodge is not only known for its sports cars lineup, it is also popular for manufacturing some of the most heavy-duty pick-up trucks. The Dodge RAM 3500 is an ultimate example, it has a towing capacity of around 30,000 pounds, three times more than its own weight.
Dodge Cars are Featured in a Number of Popular Movies
From the aforementioned facts, it is clear that Dodge has secured a significant position in the automobile brand. The iconic model series of Dodge has been featured in many popular movies including Wanted (2008) and Blues Brothers. A number of Dodge cars are also counted among popular cars featured in Fast and Furious.
Dodge is a Celebrity Favourite
The Dodge cars are not only featured in Hollywood movies, in fact, a number of international celebrities are also proud owners of Dodge. Celebrities like: JB Smoove, Amber Marshall, Kenny Wayne, John Teller, Jim Jefferies and Vin Diesel own a Dodge car.
These were all the amazing facts about Dodge. Dodge has covered a long journey since its initiation in the 1900s. The brand has established its reputation by rolling-off performance-oriented vehicles. If you are inspired by the aforementioned facts, browse through these used Dodge cars for sale in the UAE, and drive our own Dodge.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more Dodge fun facts.
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