Maiden Voyage in the French High-end Soaring Craft

Zipping Through French Style: DS N°8 - First-Hand Experience with the French Luxury Cruiser

French luxury glider journey embarks for the initial ride (DS No 8)

By Patrick Broich, Geneva

While DS Automobiles might not be familiar to many in Germany, its lack of notoriety isn't a reflection of its quality. Perhaps it's due to inadequate recognition or a restricted dealer network, or maybe its target audience's identity is a bit hard to pin down. The new DS sedan N°8, despite being officially classified as an SUV-coupe, could very well be aimed at those who find a Volkswagen ID.7 just too dull.

The electrified powertrain shares the same 400V system with the ID.7, but the DS N°8 comes with a significantly bigger 97.2 kWh net battery, offering an impressive WLTP range of 750 kilometers with a full charge. Naturally, real-world ranges can sometimes be less rosy, but the DS team cleverly conducts test drives in hilly, winding regions like the French-Swiss border area of Jura, maximizing regenerative braking opportunities.

DS N°8: Electric Range for Days!

Though the charging performance might not be cutting-edge in today's landscape, the electric sedan still has plenty going for it. Many automakers, even in the premium segment, continue to rely on slower charging speeds, and the DS N°8's ultra-fast charging more than makes up for this. The interior design, where the emphasis is placed on elegance and intuitiveness, is especially impressive. A brushed aluminum dashboard, Nappa leather-upholstered armchairs with optional neck warmers, and an intricate X-shaped four-spoke steering wheel contribute to the opulence.

One might argue that the DS N°8 doesn't quite reach the highest premium level upon closer inspection. Some details hint at its more modest origins. The simple construction of the storage compartment covers in the center console and the console itself could be more upscale. But charming details like the extended part of the dashboard serving as a solid aluminum handle to assist in closing the doors from the inside, the ambient lighting that sets the mood, and the large, floating touchscreen add a touch of modern sophistication.

Rear Seat Opulence

Jumping into the back seat, I eagerly check the headroom and legroom. True to form, it's spacious with 1.58 meters of headroom and a 2.90-meter wheelbase. Passengers in the rear won't be wanting for space. However, the optimal seat remains in front on the left, as the 245-horsepower electric vehicle offers a futuristic cruise with its 345 Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque when initiating movement smoothly.

Switching from FWD Long Range to AWD with two engines, the power increases to 350 hp, and the propulsion becomes stronger. The double-engine car accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, an impressive figure even for a sports car. Though no details have been provided on pricing, the DS N°8 is expected to start around 57,700 euros, and the top-tier version is expected to start at 75,000 euros.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in September, though it remains to be seen if the DS N°8 will gain the visibility it deserves on our roads. With its sleek design, impressive performance options, and premium feel, it certainly presents an enticing proposition for those intrigued by the fusion of luxury, technology, and electric power.

Source: ntv.de

Key Concepts: Electrified Luxury, French Automakers, Electromobility

Enrichment Data:* The DS N°8 electric SUV-coupe offers a blend of luxury, advanced technology, and impressive performance in the electric SUV-coupe segment.* Powertrain options include a front-wheel-drive (FWD) Long Range model with 245 hp and a 97.2 kWh battery, along with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) Long Range model with 345–350 hp (257 kW) and the same battery capacity.* Performance metrics include a 0–100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds for the AWD Long Range model, top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph), and up to 688 km (428 miles) of WLTP range (depending on specific market/standard).* Notable interior features include a 16-inch central touchscreen, DS IRIS SYSTEM 2.0, premium materials, and spacious seating.* The DS N°8 represents a leap forward for French electric luxury, offering a combination of style, comfort, and technology.

The DS N°8's community policy could prioritize fostering a connection with its target audience, given its focus on catering to individuals who prefer a more luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience over conventional vehicles.
As part of its industry initiatives, DS Automobiles might invest in vocational training programs to provide skilled workforce for manufacturing advanced electric vehicles like the N°8, ensuring high-quality production and innovation.
Financing options for the DS N°8 may be available through partnerships with banks or financial institutions, providing customers with easier access to the luxury, electric-powered cruiser.
In the realm of lifestyle, the DS N°8 caters to individuals who appreciate automotive and technology gadgets, integrating modern technology in its design to enhance drivability and improve user experience.
Transportation sector analysts may also take an interest in the introduction of DS N°8, as the electric vehicle represents a significant step forward in the French automotive industry's commitment to electric-vehicles and sustainable transportation.