Holy Hellcat! FCA Revs Up Production of High-Output Engine

To keep pace with demand, Fiat Chrysler Automobile NV plans to more than double production of the 707-hp Hellcat versions of its Dodge Challenger and Charger cars for the 2016 model year.

During the first half of 2015, FCA built about 4,000 SRT Hellcat Challengers and Chargers. But some dealerships accepted far more orders from potential buyers, which created a large backlog for the high-performance models.

As a result, about 900 unfilled orders are being canceled by the factory. Those buyers will be offered the option of purchasing a 2016 Hellcat muscle car at the same price as an equivalent 2015 model.

Dodge will start taking 2016 orders the week of Aug. 10. Pricing hasn't been announced.

The carmaker added the 6.2-liter V-8 Hellcat engine as an option for 2015-model Challenger and Charger muscle cars. It also is planning a Hellcat version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV.