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May 29, 2026
DS Automobiles' flagship BEV, the DS AUTOMOBILES N°8, makes its Japanese debut.
DS Automobiles N°8
Stellantis Japan has launched the "N°8," an electric vehicle (BEV) and the new flagship model from DS Automobiles.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Embodying French Luxury with Elegant Style and Serenity
A new flagship from DS Automobiles, embodying French automotive luxury, has arrived in Japan.
The N°8 is the first model under DS Automobiles' new naming convention, "N°." In French, "N°" means "number," and it is said to symbolize the brand's elegance and timeless appeal, expressing essential beauty, order, and dignity in a refined manner.
Furthermore, "8" is the largest number among DS Automobiles' models to date, evoking infinity (∞) with its form. It is said to express excellent balance, quietness, and a commitment to sustainability.
The "N°8" body measures 4,845mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,580mm in height, befitting a flagship. Its flowing proportions fuse the robustness of an SUV with the elegance of a coupe.
The front features DS Automobiles' signature lighting design, with three light units and eight diamond-shaped LED ornaments arranged horizontally in the headlights, forming a unique light signature.
Distinctive V-shaped vertical LED daytime running lights are positioned on either side, while DS Light Veil emphasizes the wide form. The DS Lumina Screen, with its flowing light lines, also contributes to the striking expression.
The rear adopts 3D LED taillights, incorporating vertical lines for the first time in a DS Automobiles model. The light effect, created by a three-dimensional scale pattern, is particularly impressive.
The wheels include 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, with optional 21-inch forged alloy wheels developed exclusively for the model. Notably, the optional 21-inch wheels are named after constellations like CASSIOPEIA and LYRAE, allowing for wheels that evoke a sense of its unique world.
Beyond its styling, the exterior also rigorously pursues aerodynamic efficiency. Combined with the active air shutter at the front, the smooth curves of the sides, and the flat underbody characteristic of a BEV, it achieves a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.24.
The interior offers a quiet luxury space, extensively using the finest Nappa leather. Pearl topstitching and "Clous de Paris" patterns, inspired by traditional Parisian ornamentation, are applied throughout, creating a refined cabin.
The seats, with high-density foam and adjustable bolsters, can be adapted to the driver's physique and driving conditions, contributing to comfort even on long journeys. A neck warmer, a first for DS Automobiles, is equipped below the headrest, providing direct warmth to the neck during colder months.
The steering wheel is also distinctive, featuring an innovative X-shape inspired by cruising yachts, allowing for intuitive operation of various controls.
Additionally, laminated glass with enhanced sound insulation and meticulous soundproofing measures reduce external noise in various ways, creating a cabin befitting a top-tier model.
The platform used is the "STLA-Medium" developed by the Stellantis Group. It is equipped with a 97.2 kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of 750 km.
The powertrain features a dual-motor AWD system with motors front and rear, delivering a system output of 350 ps and torque of 343 Nm at the front and 166 Nm at the rear. It achieves 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
DS Automobiles claims that by leveraging electrification technology honed in the FIA Formula E Championship, the N°8 achieves a balance of responsive, dynamic driving and high efficiency.
In terms of driving dynamics, the battery is positioned centrally in the floor for a lower center of gravity and optimized front-rear weight distribution. Combined with newly developed suspension and DS Active Scan Suspension, which controls dampers based on road conditions, it contributes to excellent ride comfort and driving stability.
The body colors include five options, such as the new "Crystal Pearl" and "Blanc Alberta." The grades and prices are: the basic "Étoile AWD" at 10.05 million yen, and the "Étoile AWD Absolute Comfort Package" at 10.45 million yen.
DS Automobiles N°8
Wheelbase | 2,905 mm
Tread (Front/Rear) | 1,635 mm
Front Motor Max Output | 207 kW (281.4 ps) / 7,500 rpm
Rear Motor Max Output | 83 kW (112.8 ps) / 14,000 rpm
System Max Output | 257 kW (350 ps)
Front Motor Max Torque | 343 Nm / 250-5,300 rpm
Rear Motor Max Torque | 166 Nm / 1,000-4,375 rpm
Total Battery Capacity | 97.2 kWh
WLTP Range | 750 km
Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension | Multi-link
Front Brakes | Ventilated Disc
Rear Brakes | Disc
Contact Information
DS AT YOUR SERVICE (DS Call)
Tel. 0120-92-6813 (9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Open Daily)
Learn More About the DS Automobiles N°8
Q. What kind of brand is DS Automobiles, and what is the philosophy behind the N°8?
DS Automobiles is a luxury brand from France, with roots in the legendary "DS" model born in 1955. It is founded on "Savoir-Faire" (craftsmanship), the French tradition of pursuing beauty from material selection to finishing, which is infused into all its models. The N°8 is its flagship, embodying a new value of French luxury through its elegant design, electrification technology, and a refined space that caters to the occupants.
Q. How is the technological connection with Formula E applied to the production car?
DS Automobiles has participated in the FIA Formula E Championship since the 2015-2016 season, achieving numerous victories, including two overall team titles. The N°8 incorporates a regenerative braking system that applies this electrification technology, efficiently recovering energy during deceleration through three selectable regeneration modes. Furthermore, the dual-motor AWD system with high-efficiency electric motors front and rear achieves a high level of dynamic driving with excellent response and high efficiency.
Q. What is the capability of its fast charging?
It supports DC fast charging up to a maximum of 160 kW, maintaining high charging performance from a low to mid-range battery state. Specifically, it can stably accept over 150 kW of power up to approximately 55% battery charge, and the average charging output up to 80% reaches about 126 kW, demonstrating high-level charging performance for its class. Combined with a WLTP range of 750 km, it significantly reduces stress during long-distance travel.