PARIS: DS Automobiles is said to be planning a new all-electric luxury model inspired by the classic Citroën DS from the 1960s, according to a report from British car magazine Auto Express.
The model is expected to be shown as a study this year and later as a production model, before being launched on the market in 2025 to mark the 70th anniversary of the original DS, still regarded by design enthusiasts as one of the world's most iconic cars.
DS Automobiles chief executive Olivier François said the new flagship would be big, expensive and impressive.
"Everyone will be thrilled. We can make the sensual, curvy, extremely inspiring cars that are very aerodynamic and very French," he said.
DS was spun off from the French automotive giant as its own brand in 2014, with a stated ambition to "revive the tradition of premium vehicles in the French automotive industry."
It's been trying to do so ever since, stressing its links to Paris as the centre of high fashion.
The DS boss hinted that swish aerodynamic styling would be key to the appeal of the new car with lots of smoothed edges and a low roofline that tapers towards the rear.
"I think that it is a good time for DS because we are the only new brand with a legacy. Not a legacy with a DNA, but with a pedigree," François was quoted as saying.
The first DS was famous for its shark-like looks and innovative hydraulic suspension, both of which will be hard to emulate in a modern EV.
The DS chief said the company was aiming for a similar swept-back style to its predecessor but one that was also modernised for the electric age.
DS can draw on technology available within the Stellantis stable, including batteries capable of more than 640km of range.
