DS Automobiles is setting the stage for a revolutionary remake of a classic, blending the legacy of the original Citroen DS with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. The French automaker, under the guidance of CEO Olivier Francois, is preparing to launch a fully electric flagship model, marking a nostalgic yet innovative leap into the EV market.
In a recent disclosure, Francois shared his vision for the new flagship, which he described as 'large, expensive, and amazing.' This modern reincarnation aims to capture the essence of the original Citroen DS, a vehicle renowned for its aerodynamic design and advanced engineering. 'The pure DS should be large, expensive, and amazing,' Francois emphasized, promising a model that will blend sensual styling with state-of-the-art e-mobility.
A Nod to Heritage
Since breaking away from Citroen, DS Automobiles has been on a mission to carve out its own design identity. Leveraging the iconic design cues of the Citroen DS, the automaker aims to introduce a new EV that not only epitomizes modern luxury but also exudes the brand's rich heritage. 'Few cars in automotive history have achieved the iconic status of the DS models from the sixties and seventies,' Francois noted, highlighting the car's aerodynamic excellence.
The CEO's ambition is to create a vehicle that will standout in today’s crowded EV market by marrying aesthetic appeal with historical significance. 'If we can tie back to this design DNA, we can have the best-looking and most meaningful aero-designed electric car,' Francois stated, asserting the new model's potential to redefine the genre.
Innovative Engineering
The new EV flagship by DS Automobiles will utilize Stellantis' advanced platforms, possibly incorporating a superior suspension setup reminiscent of the hydraulic systems found in vintage Citroen DS models. Francois hinted at introducing a height-adjustable suspension that could optimize both comfort and aerodynamics. 'I still love the idea of hydraulic suspension - it can go down when you drive and go up to facilitate ingress,' he mentioned.
This innovative engineering will be combined with high-performance battery technology from Stellantis. The flagship model will boast a new battery pack expected to deliver over 700 km (435 miles) of range, aligning with the tech recently introduced by the Peugeot E-3008. Such advancements illustrate DS Automobiles' commitment to pioneering next-generation e-vehicles.
Design Language for the Future
The unveiling of this EV model stands as a cornerstone in DS Automobiles' larger vision to extend the retro-inspired design language across its entire product line. 'We realized that we can expand this design, this new language, to smaller cars,' Francois said, implying a seamless transmission of the DS DNA across different segments. This strategic move could ultimately elevate the brand's aesthetic coherence.
DS Automobiles has given a glimpse of this vision through an artist sketch showcasing a futuristic take on the Citroen DS, ostensibly blending imaginary elements with pragmatic design cues. Originally believed to be a one-off for an exhibition featuring iconic cars from Louis de Funès films, recent revelations suggest this might be an actual preview of their upcoming flagship.
Looking Ahead
Though Francois kept certain specifics under wraps, the expectation is that the next major release, potentially the DS8, will embody a crossover fastback silhouette adorned with aggressive LEDs. All signs suggest that the