DS Automobiles has unveiled the No7 SUV, the successor to its best-selling DS 7 model. This marks the French brand’s first completely original vehicle design, and it aims to significantly boost the company’s market share, particularly in electric vehicle (EV) sales. The No7 will offer both hybrid and all-electric powertrain options when it launches later this year, directly competing with established premium SUVs like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.
Key Features and Design
The No7 represents a significant departure from its predecessor in terms of both exterior and interior design. Measuring 4.66 meters in length, it’s slightly larger with a longer wheelbase (by 5cm) to maximize interior space. The styling incorporates signature DS elements, including the distinctive V-shaped front lighting, illuminated grille, and available two-tone paint schemes with up to 21-inch wheels.
The design is more conventional SUV-shaped than the DS No8, but still retains key brand identifiers.
Electric Range and Performance
The electric variant of the No7 boasts a substantial range, utilizing the same 97.2 kWh battery as the DS No8, which delivers up to 460 miles (single-motor Long Range). This places it among the leaders in range for its segment, achieved through carefully optimized aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of just 0.26. This allows for over 280 miles of real-world range even at high speeds.
A four-wheel-drive version is also available, adding a rear motor to increase power to 370 bhp while maintaining a range of 422 miles. A more affordable option with a 73.7 kWh battery and 228 bhp front motor provides a range of 337 miles.
Strategic Importance for DS Automobiles
DS CEO Xavier Peugeot emphasized the importance of the No7, stating that the previous DS 7 accounted for up to 50% of the brand’s sales. The launch of the new model is crucial, especially as the market shifts towards electric vehicles. This move will be pivotal in growing the brand’s presence and EV sales mix.
The No7 is a blockbuster for which we are preparing the launch of a successor – in a quite different context, with more weight of electric sales.
The new DS No7 is poised to become a key player in the competitive mid-sized SUV market, offering a compelling combination of range, performance, and distinctive design.
