- The DS8 is an electric crossover merging sedan style with some SUV practicality
- Powertrain details are under wraps, but the DS8’s platform supports up to 382 hp.
- Expected by late 2024 or early 2025, the DS8 will be DS Automobiles’ flagship EV.
Although DS Automobiles does not have the same global reach as many other brands under the Stellantis umbrella, it is just as serious about electrification as some of its sister brands. One of its most important new electric models will be a low-slung crossover known as the DS8, and our spy photographers recently snapped this car testing up close.
The shape of the DS8 may be the first thing that captures your attention. The age of electric vehicles has introduced vehicles with intriguing shapes, and much like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Peugeot 408, and Polestar 2, the DS8 is a cross between a traditional sedan and a crossover. In theory, that should mean it has similarly sleek looks to a sedan but with some of the added practicalities of a crossover.
Read: 2025 DS8 Electric Crossover Shows Off High-Tech Cabin In Latest Spy Shots
While thick camouflage covers the test car’s entire body, the DS8’s front end lets the slim headlights visible, reminding us of those from the ill-fated NEVS Emily GT. A small lower grille is also visible and while there’s little else of interest visible on the fascia, the finished product should have some more intricate design details.
The shape of the rear side windows also caught our eye. It appears the rear doors will lack traditional handles, having them incorporated into the thick C-pillar. The handles up front will sit flush with the bodywork and present themselves when the car is unlocked.
CarScoops understands the new DS8 will be based on Stellantis’ STLA Medium architecture as opposed to the EMP2 underpinnings of the Peugeot 408 and Citroen C5 X. Powertrain details remain a mystery, but we know the STLA Medium platform can support single and dual electric motor set-ups with between 215 hp and 382 hp.
By 2025, DS Automobiles will only sell battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The French marque made this commitment in late 2020, and the DS8 is an important step towards achieving this goal.
