DS N°4 Goes Electrified: A Closer Look at the New All-Electric Model
Electric Powered DS Model 4 Now Available
The DS N°4 is now DS Automobiles' N°4, and it's not just the name that's gotten a makeover. This compact car sports a fresh electric variant that's turning heads. Let's dip under the hood and check out the juicy details!
Haute couture for cars—that's what DS Automobiles aims to be. The company's vehicles exude French elegance and a sophisticated vibe, despite not reaching the heights of luxury titans like Bugatti. But DS is anything but mainstream, often spicing things up with unique trims and lavish materials like Nappa leather. When it comes to stylish interiors, they manage to keep it chic, even within budget confines under the Stellantis umbrella.
So, what's new with the revamped "four"? The front grille sports an illuminated DS logo and a more striking design, adding a hint of coolness to the vehicle's aesthetic. The inside is just as comfortable as before, but the real action is hidden under the hood.
Electrifying Upgrades
It's official—the diesel model is out, and the base model now starts with a hybrid system that produces 145 PS. This configuration combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with a 21 kW electric motor, a setup well-known within the Stellantis family.
But there are more interesting updates for the plug-in hybrid, which remains an option. Its 180 PS system output and 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine remain unchanged. However, the electric motor has been boosted from 110 PS to 125 PS, promising a noticeable improvement in electric driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission has been swapped out for a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the battery capacity has increased from 10 kWh to 14.6 kWh, allowing the 1.7-tonner to travel up to 77 km under the average WLTP cycle without visiting a gas station.
Stepping into the Electric Future
The most exciting news is the introduction of the electric-only variant. Although DS hasn't entirely sworn off internal combustion engines, this model marks the first time the lineup goes fully electric. This version's battery capacity increases to 58.3 kWh, a new milestone for EMP2 candidates, and it boasts a charging power of 120 kW. While details on charging time are scarce, expect charging speeds comparable to current models.
The electric DS N°4 costs €45,900 and, along with the plug-in hybrid, benefits from favorable tax legislation, especially for company car drivers. The trunk continues to offer ample space for luggage, with 390 liters for the electric model, making it an ideal companion for family road trips.
Source: ntv.de, Patrick Broich/sp-x
- Stellantis
- French automakers
Enrichment Data:
Electrifying Upgrades—Breakdown:
- Battery Capacity (N°4 E-TENSE): 58.3 kWh, using NMC-type nickel-enriched chemistry for optimal energy efficiency and compactness[1][2].
- Range (WLTP Cycle): Up to 450 km[1].
- Performance: 213 hp and 343 Nm of torque[1].
- Charging Power: Supports rapid charging, with a 100 km range in 11 minutes or 20% to 80% charging time in about 31 minutes at a rapid charging point[2].
- Regenerative Braking: Adjustable via paddles behind the steering wheel with three levels: D, B, and B+[1][2].
Additional Features:
- Aerodynamics: Lowered ground clearance by 10 mm and fine-tuned aerodynamic elements within the grille for increased efficiency and reduced drag[1].
- Thermal Management: Improved efficiency and thermal comfort thanks to a new heat pump architecture and larger cooling and heating components[1][5].
- The DS N°4, now electric, is a testament to DS Automobiles' commitment to the electrification of their vehicles, signifying a significant shift in the automotive industry's movement towards sustainable transportation.
- The all-electric model, part of the DS N°4 line, showcases a higher battery capacity of 58.3 kWh, using NMC-type nickel-enriched chemistry for optimal energy efficiency and compactness.
- Boasting a range of up to 450 km under the WLTP cycle, the DS N°4 E-TENSE delivers performance of 213 hp and 343 Nm of torque, making it a compelling choice in the electric-vehicles segment.
- The DS N°4 E-TENSE is priced at €45,900, and with favorable tax legislation, particularly for company car drivers, it presents an appealing option for those looking to integrate electric vehicles into their lifestyle.