DS has used the 2018 Paris ePrix to announce the brand is fully embracing electrification.
Starting in 2025, all new models will be offered exclusively with a hybrid or electric powertrain. That’s still several years away but the announcement builds on the company’s plan to offer electrified versions of its upcoming vehicles.
In a statement, DS CEO Yves Bonnefont said “Our ambition is very clear: for DS to be among the global leaders in electrified cars on its market.” He went on to say the company’s transition is already underway thanks to models such as the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4×4. The crossover has a plug-hybrid powertrain which consists of a petrol engine, two electric motors and a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This enables the model to have a combined output of 300 hp (223 kW / 304 PS) and an electric-only range of 31 miles (50 km).
Besides revealing plans to exclusively offer electrified vehicles, Bonnefont said the company’s first electric vehicle will be presented “in a few weeks.” The company declined to elaborate but Bonnefont hinted the model will eventually be shown at the Paris Motor Show which kicks off in October.
While nothing is official, Bonnefont is likely talking about the electric version of the DS3 Crossback. The model is expected to have a 50 kWh battery pack that powers an electric motor producing around 113 hp (84 kW / 115 PS). This setup could enable the model to travel up to 279 miles (450 km) on a single charge. Previous reports have also suggested the car will have a fast charging system that can deliver up to 7.4 miles (12 km) of range for every minute of charging.