DS Automobiles presented for the first time in Portugal the DS E-Tense Performance prototype, developed by the brand’s sports division after winning the team and driver titles in two consecutive seasons of Formula E.
Since its launch in 2014, DS Automobiles has placed electrification at the center of its strategy. As the first premium manufacturer to participate in Formula E, the brand leveraged the successes achieved in this 100% electric championship to support its research and development work for a more sustainable mobility.
It is within this strategy that the 100% electric concept emerges, a true performance laboratory for the brand, with no possibility of reaching production, and with the mission to accelerate the development of technologies for future DS models.
The DS E-Tense Performance is based on a carbon monocoque structure weighing 1200 kg, and is equipped with two electric motors, one with 340 hp at the front and another with 475 hp at the rear axle, allowing for a combined power of 815 hp and a torque of 8000 Nm transmitted to all four wheels. These figures contribute to the concept being able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 230 km/h.
The two electric motors are powered by an innovative 25 kWh battery housed in a structure made of aluminum and carbon composite material, designed by DS Performance, and placed in a central rear position.
Developed in collaboration with TotalEnergies and its subsidiary Saft, it conceals an innovative chemistry and an immersive cooling system for the cells, breaking away from current technologies.
The prototype now revealed in Lisbon hints at the path to be explored by the DS Design Studio for future models of the brand, as it presents a front section that unveils a new surface, replacing the grille. Already suggested by the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept, this treatment combines the DS Automobiles logo with a three-dimensional effect, in an authentic showcase, with a special welcome sequence.On both sides, new daytime running lights combine technology and style. Together, they are composed of 800 LEDs. Two cameras positioned, in place of headlights, complete the visual identity of the DS E-Tense Performance, allowing, at the same time, the collection of useful data by this driving laboratory.
To complement the aerodynamic line, the body introduces an interference color with a beetle effect. Depending on the external conditions and the angle from which it is viewed, the perception of the color changes and gives an impressive contrast effect with the glossy black surfaces that extend to the hood. The 21-inch wheels debut an aerodynamic profile with unique inserts.
The interior highlights bucket seats and a Formula E steering wheel that recreate an environment inherent to high performance. Additionally, comfort and attention to detail also come together with special black leather inserts, complemented by a Focal sound system featuring exclusive Scala Utopia Evo speakers in the colors of the prototype.
The presence of the DS E-Tense Performance in Lisbon served to reinforce the brand’s electrification strategy in a market where the French brand has already sold over 250,000 units of the DS 3, the brand’s first 100% electric vehicle, DS 4, DS 7, and DS9, with both thermal and electrified plug-in hybrid powertrains.
“In Portugal, electrified powertrains represent 68% of DS Automobiles sales,” revealed David Correia, head of DS Automobiles Portugal, who also mentioned that the French brand “from this year onwards, all new models launched by DS Automobiles will be exclusively 100% electric, and by 2026 the entire range will be electric.”
