The pursuit of range is also evident in the cabin. DS has fitted the seats with a neck-warmer system of the kind typically reserved for cabriolets because it is claimed to be a more efficient way of warming the body than a conventional heater while using 5-10% less energy. Moreover, heated seats will be included as standard because they are also more efficient than heating the entire interior.
As with its radical exterior, the rest of the No 8’s interior represents a dramatic departure from the brand’s existing models. Most notably, it uses a novel four-spoke steering wheel, while the cabin is clad in monolithic, geometric panels.
In the pursuit of a more minimalist look, designers have also removed traditional buttons from the dashboard and placed most of the car’s controls within the centrally mounted 16in infotainment screen.
The No 8 will be offered with a choice of three powertrains and two batteries. The entry-level car gets a single front-mounted motor that puts out up to 256bhp and 254lb ft. It’s paired with a 74kWh battery, giving a range of 355 miles and a 0-62mph time of 7.7sec.
The middle-rung High Range car also has a single motor, which delivers up to 276bhp, but gains the 97.2kWh battery. Supplied by France-based Automotive Cells Company, it’s composed of 12 modules that each weigh 34.45kg and gives the headline range figure of 466 miles. The extra mass slows the 0-62mph to 7.8sec, though.
The range-topper uses the same battery but adds a second motor on the rear axle, boosting combined power to 370bhp. This cuts its 0-62mph sprint to 5.4sec but also compromises efficiency, reducing its range to 426 miles.
Given DS’s push for efficiency, all three powertrains have been programmed to reduce power outputs when charge levels are low. The entry-level car drops to 227bhp, High Range to 242bhp and the top-rung car to 345bhp.
Prices for the No 8 in mainland Europe will range from €60,000 to €75,000 (£50,000 to £62,000). However, Autocar understands the model is likely to be priced lower in the UK to compete with rivals – such as the £51,270 BMW i4 – and to rebuild DS’s presence in the market after selling just over 1000 cars here in 2024, a far cry from its UK peak of 15,000 sales in 2016.
UK deliveries are expected to start by the end of next year.
