After conceiving the DS 7 Élysée for the French Presidency, DS Automobiles has now presented the DS 7 Vauban, a limited edition armored plug-in hybrid model based on the DS 7 E-Tense 4×4 300, featuring armored protection, an elongated chassis by about twenty centimeters behind the central pillar, and special equipment.
Designed as a special protection vehicle by the Welp Group, this model is equipped with aramid fibers – a class of lightweight materials particularly resistant to shocks and heat – combined with armored steel and safety glass that reinforce the vehicle to a VPAM 4 protection level.
Designed for maximum efficiency in terms of both security and first-class comfort, DS states that this transformation has a very minimal impact on maneuverability, with only 164 kg of additional weight compared to the base model.
Furthermore, the French brand revealed that the braking distances of the DS 7 Vauban are equivalent to those of the DS 7 E-Tense 4×4 300 and the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is only 0.2 seconds slower, going from 5.9 to 6.1 seconds.
The driving behavior benefits from the camera-controlled DS Active Scan Suspension damping, while the turning diameter of 10.45 m remains unchanged.The interior transformation was supervised by upholsterers, ensuring the maintenance of a high level of refinement.
DS has stated that in addition to the additional equipment available in the catalog, there are option groups, both for protection, such as automatic extinguishers, closed circuit ventilation, sirens, and intercoms, etc., and for passenger comfort, such as additional USB outlets, reading lights, among other vehicle customization options.
The French brand states that the technical decisions adopted for the DS 7 Vauban make it a unique offer. In addition to a behavior comparable to a standard DS 7, the driver only needs a category B driver’s license, unlike most competing models that require a heavy goods driver’s license and specific training.
The DS also revealed that the DS 7 Vauban, named after the fortifications built in the late 17th century, which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and that this four-wheeled fortification is available in the French market for a starting price of €165,000.
“The DS 7 Vauban was designed for demanding customers seeking the refinement and comfort of DS Automobiles, while also benefiting from proven solutions against potential attacks. We are proud to offer a product like this in our range”, stated Olivier François, CEO of DS Automobiles
