The Promise of a New DS

Rumours have been swirling for a few years about the introduction of a modernized DS.

What we will be getting, according to a November 21 press release from DS Automobiles, (the Stellantis brand void of Citroën branding), will be a new model DS in name, but classic Citroën DS enthusiasts will most likely be disappointed if they expect the style and suspension of the original.

While full details of a new DS model are to be made public by year end, more than fifty camouflage-wrapped pre-production models are currently being tested on French roads.

What has been disclosed is that it is a 100% electric creation with a range of 750 km in the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) mixed cycle — an exceptional result obtained thanks to the in-depth work carried out on the aerodynamics of the car, and the advanced technology of DS Automobiles.

It achieves a remarkable Cx of 0.24. All body sections were wind tunnel tested. In particular, piloted air intakes have been installed in the lower part of the front bumper, with the aim of facilitating cooling. The front section has DS Automobiles’ distinctive light signature that is enhanced by vertical daytime running lights which frame the DS PIXELVISION headlights. These, in turn, frame the DS badge.

Also affecting the pursuit of efficiency, the rear wings are sculpted, while the three-dimensional lights have a vertical signature, facilitating the transition of aerodynamic flows.

DS Automobiles says that the aerodynamic achievements are for exterior styling that takes up the dynamism of the most elegant SUVs, meeting the expectations of its customers by evolving the silhouette of vehicles in the SUV category. It appears to be close in size to what BMW offers in the X6 though with a lower height front end for better efficiency.

The DS Automobiles press release lauds the charismatic style, aerodynamic lines, avant-garde technology and first-class comfort, claiming that they are the pillars that led to the creation of this new DS model. It goes on the state;

^{Through its new creation, the Brand has created lines of a new kind while retaining the fundamental attributes that have forged the success of SUV Coupés}

We’ll reserve commenting in the design and innovation until the wraps are off, but for now, here’s what DS Automobiles is showing so far;

^{Playing on the contrast of a deep black, punctuated by aerodynamic lines in a golden hue, this new camouflage lifts the veil on the general line of the future model. It takes up the colors of the DS E-TENSE FE25 entered in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.}