DS Automobiles heralds a new era with the launch of the DS N°8, a 100% electric premium sedan. This model embodies a new design language for the brand and marks the transition to an all-electric range. The Volvo ES90 is positioned as a direct competitor in the premium electric saloon segment. An opportunity to compare the two models, examining their design, dimensions, engines and respective ranges.
Exterior and interior design: Similarities and differences
The DS N°8 has a bold design characterised by taut, tapered lines inspired by the DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE concept. This quest for aerodynamic efficiency translates into a sleek silhouette and a distinctive lighting signature. The front grille, symbolic for an electric vehicle, features a screen that displays animations and an illuminated DS logo. Flush door handles and aerodynamic wheels add to the modern look. Inside, the N°8 offers a luxurious cabin that combines fine materials with cutting-edge technology. The user interface is streamlined, with a central touchscreen seamlessly integrated into the dashboard and haptic controls for a refined tactile experience.
For its part, the Volvo ES90 adopts a simple Scandinavian aesthetic. Its exterior design is characterised by a sleek silhouette, T-shaped LED headlights and the absence of a traditional grille, reflecting its electric identity. Frameless mirrors add a contemporary touch to the overall package. The ES90's interior prioritises minimalism and functionality, with durable materials and careful attention to passenger comfort. The spacious cabin incorporates advanced technologies, including an advanced infotainment system and extensive connectivity.
External and internal dimensions
The DS N°8 measures 4950mm long, 1930mm wide and 1580mm high, with a wheelbase of 2900mm. These dimensions give it an imposing presence on the road, while ensuring generous space for rear passengers. The boot has a capacity of 450 litres, providing ample cargo space for everyday needs.
The Volvo ES90 is 5000mm long, 1942mm wide, 1546mm high and has a wheelbase of 3102mm. These dimensions are slightly larger than those of the N°8, but the two saloons share many similarities and therefore compete head to head. Although the Volvo ES90 has a longer wheelbase than the N°8, it only offers a boot capacity of 424 litres, compared to 450 litres for the French electric sedan.
Engines and ranges: electrifying performance
The DS N°8 is available with three all-electric powertrains developing 230 bhp, 245 bhp and 350 bhp respectively, the latter with two motors and four-wheel drive. These powertrains give the N°8 an estimated range of 750 km according to the WLTP cycle. The N°8 supports fast charging up to 200 kW, allowing 80% of the battery to be recovered in about 30 minutes.
The Volvo ES90 offers several powertrain configurations. The base version has a 245 kW (333 hp) rear engine and 88 kWh battery, giving a range of up to 700 km according to the WLTP cycle. The dual-motor versions feature two electric motors delivering 330 kW (449 hp) and 500 kW (680 hp) respectively, coupled to a 102 kWh battery. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the ES90 supports ultra-fast charging up to 350kW, enabling a range of 300km in just 10 minutes.
This is where Volo has a clear advantage, with significantly more engine power and, more importantly, an 800-volt architecture that allows for faster battery charging. However, the No. 8 has a longer maximum range, which ensures optimum efficiency.
With the No. 8, DS Automobiles is firmly positioned in the premium electric sedan segment, offering a distinctive design and convincing performance. On the other hand, the Volvo ES90 offers a Scandinavian alternative with generous dimensions, cutting-edge technology and similar autonomy. The two models are very close in terms of dimensions, but Volvo's new ES 90 is significantly more expensive than the DS No. 8 with a starting price of 75,900 Euros, while the French electric sedan starts at under 60,000 Euros. The latter has a significant advantage, especially as it offers a range that matches or even exceeds the DS No. 8. Consumers now have two new electric saloons to choose from, depending on their aesthetic and technological preferences.
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