It looks as if Stellantis is in a perpetual state of turmoil that simply retains getting worse, however the French manufacturers within the conglomerate seem like on a totally reverse trajectory. Citroën and Peugeot have launched a bunch super-efficient hybrids and EVs with revolutionary and generally unusual designs, and now the DS Vehicles spin-off luxurious model is about to launch one thing wild known 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 might have gone with any variety of her sci-fi friends, like “Flash Gordon” or “The Jetsons” or possibly “The Fifth Component,” however I’m simply in a Barbarella temper at present. 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 night time, and the speaker grilles being built-in within the door items is admittedly slick. The dashboard itself could 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 appear to be leaping into hyperspace.
What’s just a little freakier is the steering wheel. I’ve truthfully by no means seen something like this four-spoke wheel — possibly a sorta related 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 possibly a spider from “Arachnophobia.” The 4 outstretched spokes make it appear to be a leaping creature. I do actually find it irresistible, although.
The N°8 received’t be absolutely revealed for an additional few weeks, however DS has proven what it appears 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 probably the most excessive instance of DS’ star-like mild signature but, and a few actually cool design thrives just like the tailgate spoiler. We don’t know which platform the N°8 will trip on but, nevertheless it’ll have a spread of 466 miles on the European WLTP cycle.
As for that identify… 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 Vehicles signature written out in full on the rear of the automotive. The introduction of the “N°” naming conference launches a brand new era of fashions for DS Vehicles, highlighting a big improvement.
“N°” is a nod to the French language, because it represents the same old manner of writing “quantity” in French, embodying an class and timelessness that transcends languages. It signifies the daybreak of a brand new period. The “°” is designed like a diamond tip, symbolic of class and experience. The long run DS Vehicles vary will comply with this new naming technique. The quantity will correspond to the dimensions and phase of the mannequin.
“8” is a brand new quantity for DS Vehicles. Its form, near the infinity signal, is related to stability and serenity, which mix to type a harmonious complete. To take care of the Model’s identification, the rear of the automotive 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 direction of the electrical future.
You realize what? Go for it. We’d like extra enjoyable bizarre shit in automobiles, and the French are one of the best 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.
