It looks like Stellantis is in a perpetual state of turmoil that simply retains getting worse, however the French manufacturers within the conglomerate look like on a totally reverse trajectory. Citroën and Peugeot have launched a bunch super-efficient hybrids and EVs with modern and typically unusual designs, and now the DS Cars spin-off luxurious model is about to launch one thing wild referred to as the N°8. It’s not a fragrance however a brand new absolutely electrical sedan-crossover-thing, and this week DS put out the primary picture of its wild inside that Barbarella would love.
I may have gone with any variety of her sci-fi friends, like “Flash Gordon” or “The Jetsons” or perhaps “The Fifth Ingredient,” however I’m simply in a Barbarella temper right this moment. The boat-inspired upright gold band that runs throughout the dashboard and door panels is so pulpy mid-century sci-fi, particularly in the way it’s illuminated at evening, and the speaker grilles being built-in within the door items is admittedly slick. The dashboard itself may be very low and slim and furniture-like, which makes the floating screens really feel extra like a holistic a part of the design. That heart console is tremendous sci-fi too, the lights even seem like leaping into hyperspace.
What’s a bit freakier is the steering wheel. I’ve actually by no means seen something like this four-spoke wheel — perhaps a sorta comparable vibe on some ’50s American stuff — and it jogs my memory of some less-positive sci-fi issues. Like, the headcrabs from “Half-Life” and the facehugger from “Alien,” or perhaps a spider from “Arachnophobia.” The 4 outstretched spokes make it seem like a leaping creature. I do actually like it, although.
The N°8 received’t be absolutely revealed for one more few weeks, however DS has proven what it seems to be like with camouflage on. It’ll be the model’s flagship and largest mannequin, and it takes the type of a lifted crossover-y sedan, just like the Polestar 2 or Volvo S60 Cross Nation, with a low 0.24 drag coefficient. It has essentially the most excessive instance of DS’ star-like mild signature but, and a few actually cool design prospers just like the tailgate spoiler. We don’t know which platform the N°8 will trip on but, however it’ll have a variety of 466 miles on the European WLTP cycle.
As for that title… Right here’s what DS needed to say:
This method hyperlinks the names of the prevailing vary and people of the Model’s future fashions, whereas retaining numbers and adopting a bolder rationale with “N°” (quantity).This technique is mixed with an incrasingly assertive model presence, with a badge that is still conspicuous on the entrance and the DS Cars signature written out in full on the rear of the automobile. The introduction of the “N°” naming conference launches a brand new era of fashions for DS Cars, highlighting a big growth.
“N°” is a nod to the French language, because it represents the standard means of writing “quantity” in French, embodying an magnificence and timelessness that transcends languages. It signifies the daybreak of a brand new period. The “°” is designed like a diamond tip, symbolic of magnificence and experience. The long run DS Cars vary will comply with this new naming technique. The quantity will correspond to the scale and phase of the mannequin.
“8” is a brand new quantity for DS Cars. Its form, near the infinity signal, is related to steadiness and serenity, which mix to type a harmonious entire. To keep up the Model’s identification, the rear of the automobile will sport the “N°8” signature supplemented by “DS AUTOMOBILES”. This separated branding ensures a transparent division between the Model and the mannequin, whereas indicating a development in the direction of the electrical future.
You understand what? Go for it. We want extra enjoyable bizarre shit in vehicles, and the French are the most effective and enjoyable and bizarre. I don’t actually care if Stellantis survives, as a result of I can relaxation straightforward figuring out that the French will thrive it doesn’t matter what.
