DS N°8 – A New Luxury Electric Coupé SUV
DS Automobiles takes a confident step into the era of electrification with its new model, the DS N°8. The manufacturer refers to it as a coupé SUV, though its design resembles more of a fastback with 155 mm ground clearance, complemented by protective plastic body cladding.
The DS N°8 belongs to the mid-size vehicle segment, measuring 4.82 meters in length and with a wheelbase of 2.9 meters, dimensions comparable to the Tesla Model Y. Built on Stellantis's STLA Medium platform, which also underpins the Peugeot e-3008, e-5008, and the upcoming Lancia Gamma, the name N°8 indicates its position in the DS lineup—between the DS7 SUV and the DS9 sedan.
The DS N°8 boasts an aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.24, impressive though not class-leading. Its front end features a dynamic lighting panel and the DS emblem positioned above the traditional grille area. The lighting design and vertical optical elements stretch to the edges of the front bumper, emphasizing the car’s futuristic style.
The interior draws inspiration from luxury yachts, delivering a unique yet refined design. Highlights include a four-spoke steering wheel and a Focal Electra 3D Hi-Fi sound system with 14 speakers, including integrated side panels. Standard features include a 16-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and neck warmers for the driver. The cargo space offers a generous 620 liters, and customers can choose from five exterior colors and three interior trims, including premium Nappa leather and recycled plastics.
DS N°8 is available in three powertrain options:
1. Standard Model:
230 hp electric motor driving the front axle.
74 kWh battery offering up to 572 km range.
0–100 km/h acceleration in 7.7 seconds.
2. Long Range Version:
245 hp motor and a 97.2 kWh battery.
Range of up to 750 km.
0–100 km/h acceleration in 7.8 seconds.
3. Top Model:
Dual motors delivering 350 hp with the same 97.2 kWh battery.
Range of up to 686 km, with 0–100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
Maximum speed of 190 km/h.
Production of the DS N°8 will commence in early 2025 at Stellantis's Melfi plant in Italy. The batteries and electric motors will be sourced from France, manufactured by Emotors and ACC. The first cars are expected to arrive at European dealerships in summer 2025, with starting prices likely around €65,000.
Although the DS N°8 debuts as an electric model, the manufacturer is considering hybrid versions, which could hit the market as early as 2026.
