Power, precision, and thrill. This is what defines the Dodge brand.
Since its first vehicle launch in 1914, Dodge has made its name in producing some of the most powerful all-American muscle cars, sports cars, and even trucks. In history, it contributed some of the toughest military-spec trucks and ambulances in World War II, having produced over 400,000 trucks toward the war effort. Since then, the Dodge line of full-sized passenger cars and SUVs have evolved to showcase a sense of contemporary style and personality that was suited for every era; from the flashy 1950s to the ‘70s race track, and all the way to performance-driven ‘90s and 2000s. One might even say that adaptability is a key element in how Dodge has remained and continued to be one of the icons in the automotive world.
Today, Dodge has become synonymous with high-performance driving, delivering the kind of strength and power that only American muscle cars are known for. The highlights are the Dodge Challenger, the brand’s big-body sports coupe with a 6.4-liter V8 engine under its hood and a SRT Hellcat variant; and the Dodge Charger four-door sedan with a class-exclusive V8 engine, SRT Hellcat variant, and the wide-body and front stance of what muscle cars are made to be. Both are reminiscent of the signature Dodge design from the heritage years, yet have adopted the sleek, sophisticated lines of modern styling. Likewise, it has maintained the same thrilling personality of sports racing with the supercharged SRT Hellcat engine.
Suffice to say that through the generations, the Dodge owner is a special kind of enthusiast — one who is drawn to a car that is no-nonsense, espouses strength and ingenuity, yet has an adrenaline-seeking personality. It is not about the stature for a Dodge owner. It is about the fun and adventure that has spanned more than a century and having a close-knit community to share it with.
With that in mind, Auto Nation Group (ANG), the local exclusive distributor for Dodge in the Philippines, proudly launched the very first DODGE DRIVE, a collaborative effort for Dodge Philippines that brought together the Dodge Muscle Car Club, the Manila GTR Owners Club, HP Club of the Philippines, and I&I Mods. This opened the opportunity for the community to officially get to know the Dodge brand and the vision behind it, experience the excitement of a Dodge vehicle firsthand, as well as to officially get to know the members of the Dodge Muscle Car Club.
Apart from the iconic vehicles that were in the spotlight for the day, Dodge organized a full day of activities that allowed Dodge owners, club members, and special guests to embark on an exciting drive out of town northbound. Because owning a Dodge is about appreciating unparalleled performance, the participants for the day were able to stretch the legs of their favorite Dodge cars, driving out from the Dodge showroom in Greenhills, San Juan towards Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort, where a sumptuous brunch was served. The adventure didn’t stop there, as the drive took them further toward the Sacobia Bridge in Mabalacat, Pampanga. As a touch of novelty and exclusivity, the group was one of the first to experience being on the Sacobia Bridge, considering that it is not even open yet to the public. The participants enjoyed an undisturbed scenic view and being the first group to hold a special photoshoot at the location.
Dodge Drive was an exclusive event that showcased the lifestyle of muscle car and sports car owners. However, more than having a fun time, it was founded on the idea of how being enthusiasts in this community also meant leading the way in promoting responsible car ownership and safe driving habits. That is why a significant part of the day was a collaboration with NLEX Corporation, where a special Highway Traffic Safety Course was held, in order to generate awareness for safe driving and the proper use of highways and expressways. This direction is aligned with how Dodge defines power and performance as a way to educate and grow a new generation of better owners and better drivers.
This year’s Dodge Drive is only the beginning for Dodge in the Philippines. The brand’s legacy and evolution has consistently highlighted on the strength and dependability. Moreover, with the challenges that the world is facing today, it touches on the responsibility that comes with privilege and how the enthusiasm for adventure can be made better when it is built with a sense of community.
Owning a Dodge is about taking ownership of what it means to have the ability to make a difference. The Dodge community, from its inception, has built its reputation as a brand that adapts to the changing times, era after era, and sharing the spirit of adventure and camaraderie the world over. This is what it means to be part of the Dodge family and that is how it will be for generations to come.