HEMI Is Back in a Big Way: Stellantis Targets 100,000+ V8 Engines for 2026

Unprecedented Demand

Stellantis is moving to significantly expand HEMI V8 production after demand for the engine outpaced supply in 2025, according to Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis. In an interview with Mopar Insiders at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show, Kuniskis confirmed the automaker is increasing output following last year’s shortfall, when Stellantis was unable to build enough HEMI-powered trucks to meet customer demand.

In 2025, Stellantis received roughly 50,000 HEMI orders but produced only about 30,000 engines, limiting retail availability and muting sales gains. Kuniskis said the gap was the result of capacity constraints, not lack of interest, as the company reintroduced the V8 while also ramping production of its twin-turbo Hurriance I6.

One Engine Plant, Two High-Demand Powertrains

Both the HEMI V8 and Hurricane I6 are currently built at Stellantis’ Saltillo Engine Plant in Mexico, a setup that has created production bottlenecks as multiple vehicle lines compete for the same capacity. Saltillo produces the 5.7-liter, 6.4-liter, and supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI variants, as well as both versions of the 3.0-liter Hurricane.

Those constraints became visible last spring when Hurricane shortages temporarily disrupted Jeep Grand Wagoneer production so engines could be redirected to Ram 1500 assembly. With Ram sales increasing after the V8’s return and Dodgepreparing to launch internal-combustion versions of the eighth-generation Charger, including high-performance models, pressure on Saltillo has only intensified.

HEMI Output to Jump in 2026

Kunikiskis added that Stellantis plans to build more than 100,000 HEMI engines in 2026, more than tripling last year’s output. The increase is expected to better reflect actual consumer demand and clarify the long-term mix between HEMI V8 and Hurricane I6 powertrains. Kuniskis estimates the HEMI could account for roughly 35 percent of take rates once supply stabilizes.

Importantly, Stellantis is no longer limiting expansion plans to Saltillo. Kuniskis confirmed the company is actively working to increase HEMI production “regardless of the location,” signaling that additional manufacturing capacity is under consideration. More details are expected later in 2026, potentially during Stellantis’ Capital Markets Day, as the automaker outlines its broader powertrain and manufacturing strategy.