Who makes a Nitro vehicle?
In automotive terms, the Nitro vehicle most people refer to is the Dodge Nitro, a mid-size SUV previously produced by Dodge (Chrysler). In the world of remote‑control hobby cars, “nitro” describes fuel-powered models made by a range of brands. Here’s a clear look at both interpretations and who makes them today.
Automotive Nitro: The Dodge Nitro
The short answer is that the Dodge Nitro was built by Dodge, the brand of Chrysler Group. The model was positioned as a compact-to-mid-size SUV and launched for the 2007 model year. Production continued through the early 2010s before the model was discontinued as Dodge restructured its lineup.
The Dodge Nitro emerged as part of Chrysler’s lineup during a period of sizeable product development and corporate changes. It was developed to offer a rugged, utilitarian SUV option with available four-wheel drive, a range of interior configurations, and a straightforward, boxy design language that appealed to buyers seeking practicality over premium styling.
Key facts about the Dodge Nitro are summarized below.
- Manufacturer: Dodge (a brand of Chrysler Group LLC at launch; later part of FCA US LLC, and subsequently Stellantis).
- Production years: 2007–2012 model years (with production ending in 2011 for most markets).
- Assembly plant: Belvidere Assembly Plant, Belvidere, Illinois, United States.
- Engine options: 2.4-liter inline-4 engine or 3.7-liter V6 engine; both paired typically with a 4-speed automatic transmission; available in rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations.
- Market status: Discontinued; Dodge shifted its SUV lineup after the Nitro’s departure, and the model is no longer in production.
Today, the Dodge Nitro is remembered as a practical, no-frills mid-size SUV from the late 2000s. The Dodge brand is now part of Stellantis, the global automaker formed through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, and it focuses its current SUV lineup on other models.
Nitro in the Remote-Control Hobby: Nitro-Powered RC Vehicles
Beyond cars on roads, the term “nitro” is also widely used in the radio-controlled car scene to describe gas-powered models that run on nitro fuel blends. These engines typically require glow plugs and special fueling, and they’ve been produced by several hobby brands over the years.
The following brands have historically offered nitro-powered RC vehicles and/or engines for hobbyists. This list is indicative of the broader market and may change as brands update their product lines.
- HPI Racing — long-standing presence in nitro-powered RC cars and trucks (influential in the nitro RC community).
- Kyosho — a major player in RC, offering nitro-powered models in several scale classes over the years.
- Tamiya — known for a wide range of RC products, including some nitro-powered options in various eras.
- Redcat Racing — has offered nitro-powered models alongside electric options in its catalog.
Enthusiasts looking for nitro RC vehicles should check current catalogs from hobby retailers and manufacturers in their region, as availability and brand focus can shift with licensing, ownership changes, and market demand.
What is a nitro engine?
Nitro engines used in RC cars are small internal combustion engines that run on methanol-based fuels containing nitromethane. They require glow plugs to ignite the fuel and typically require regular maintenance, tuning, and fuel handling. These engines provide a different driving experience compared with electric models, often offering longer run times between recharges and a distinctive exhaust note.
Summary
Two distinct meanings sit behind the question of who makes a nitro vehicle. For road-going automobiles, the Dodge Nitro was built by Dodge, a brand under Chrysler Group (now part of Stellantis), produced from 2007 to 2012 and assembled in Belvidere, Illinois. For hobbyists, nitro refers to gas-powered RC cars produced by several brands over the years, including HPI Racing, Kyosho, Tamiya, and Redcat Racing, among others. Whether you’re seeking a discontinued SUV or a nitro-powered RC model, the landscape spans mainstream automakers and passionate hobby brands alike.
