Presented in 2022, the DS E-Tense Performance concept served as a prototype for the brand to develop new technologies in electric vehicles. Taking over part of the E-Tense concept from 2016, the E-Tense Performance concept also heralded the face of the brand's next models.
A few weeks after winning the Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille 2022 Innovation Prize, DS E-Tense Performance wins the Concept of the Year trophy at the GQ CAR AWARDS 2023. This year, the award is reserved exclusively for electrified cars that share an inspiration, interest and automotive respectability that make the jury's hearts beat faster.
DS E-TENSE PERFORMANCE was conceived as a high-performance laboratory by DS PERFORMANCE after winning two drivers' titles and two team titles in the Formula E championship.
During its first test campaign, DS E-TENSE PERFORMANCE has already covered more than 3,000 kilometres and validated a 0 to 100 km/h in 2.0 seconds! The powertrain is made up of two electric motors with a combined output of 600 kW (250 kW at the front and 350 kW at the rear), equivalent to 815 hp and 8,000 Nm of torque at the wheels. Directly derived from DS PERFORMANCE's developments in Formula E, these two electric motors offer exceptional performance.
Paul Henderson, associate editor of GQ, says: "DS Automobiles is keeping a secret. When they're not showcasing sleek, polished cars, they like to be a little mean. They give their designers carte blanche to get crazy and come up with great concept cars like the DS E-TENSE PERFORMANCE. Based on Formula E technology, this stunning 815bhp coupé can go from 0 to 100km/h in less than 2.0 seconds. And it comes in a Beetle Effect interference paint. "
For her part, Julie David, Managing Director of DS Automobiles UK, said: "We are delighted that the GQ jury has recognised the excellence of the DS E-TENSE PERFORMANCE, which is a glimpse into the future of our brand and our future production models. . From 2024, all our new models will be 100% electric and will directly benefit from the technology developed by DS Performance in Formula E".
Finally, for Eugenio Franzetti, Director of DS Performance, "Motorsport has always been a research and development tool. Thanks to the experience gained in competition, production cars are developed further. It's the same with concept cars, which are true technological laboratories, with a style that should inspire our future productions. DS E-TENSE PERFORMANCE is the perfect combination of experience gained in competition and projection into the future. Derived from Formula E, this laboratory demonstrates that DS Automobiles' 100% electric models will go a long way. "