European heritage days: DS Automobiles takes center stage at the french presidential palace

This weekend, for the European Heritage Days, the main courtyard of the Elysée Palace—the official residence of the French President—will not only be a stage for French history but also for an automotive saga intimately linked to it. I am pleased to share that DS Automobiles has been chosen to exhibit two exceptional vehicles there, creating a spectacular bridge between the past and the future. Alongside a legendary DS 21 Pallas once used by General de Gaulle, the brand new, all-electric DS N°8 Présidentielle will be proudly displayed. This exhibition perfectly symbolizes how Citroën's legacy continues to inspire modernity and excellence within DS Automobiles, right at the heart of the French Republic.

A historic bond with the French presidency

The upcoming 20th and 21st of September mark the 42nd edition of the European Heritage Days. This major cultural event will see nearly 10,000 pre-registered visitors walk through the gates of the Elysée Palace. For DS Automobiles, this is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of a lasting and prestigious relationship with the French Presidency. Since the beginning of the Fifth Republic, the "chevrons" of Citroën, and later the DS emblem, have accompanied France's heads of state. We vividly remember the iconic DS and SM models used by Presidents like Charles de Gaulle, Georges Pompidou, and Valéry Giscard d’Estaing. This tradition has continued through the decades, with Jacques Chirac's CX, the DS 5 Hybrid4 chosen by François Hollande for his 2012 inauguration, and the DS 7 CROSSBACK Présidentiel that marked the beginning of Emmanuel Macron's term in 2017. By presenting these two models in such a symbolic location, DS is not just showcasing cars; the brand is reaffirming its deep roots in French history and heritage.

The DS N°8 Présidentielle: the electric future of french luxury

The undisputed star of this exhibition is the DS N°8 PRÉSIDENTIELLE. Specially designed for the 80th anniversary commemoration of the May 8, 1945 armistice, it represents a major milestone, making the French head of state the first in the world to use an official, all-electric parade vehicle. Dressed in an exclusive Sapphire Blue paint, it features a DS LUMINASCREEN grille that subtly illuminates in Blue, White, and Red. This unique model is a showcase of French artisanal craftsmanship. The dashboard is adorned with straw marquetry by the Lison de Caunes workshop, while the seats, crafted by the brand's master upholsterers, blend Nappa leather with a "Bleu Songe" Alcantara®. This same blue adorns an innovative pleated fabric from Métaphores, shaped by the Atelier Lognon. Excellence is also found in its technology. The powertrain, produced entirely in France, is a concentrate of innovation. The electric motor is manufactured in Trémery, Lorraine, and the batteries are supplied by the ACC Gigafactory in Billy-Berclau. The result is a record-breaking range of up to 750 km (approx. 466 miles), a figure that positions DS Automobiles at the forefront of electric engineering.

The DS 21 Pallas: an icon in service of General de Gaulle

Contrasting this display of modernity, the DS 21 PALLAS offers a counterpoint rich with history. This specific car, which left the Javel factory 60 years ago, was used by General de Gaulle between 1965 and 1967. Far from the armored parade cars, this DS 21 is distinguished by its presidential discretion. It was primarily used for the General's trips between the Elysée Palace and his private residence in Colombey-les-deux-Églises. Its special fittings, such as the flag holders concealed in the bumper and a cockade holder on the dashboard, attest to its official duties. After its service, it led a quiet life before being sold at auction in 2023 for €59,040. Its presence is a wonderful nod to history, especially as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the original DS this year. It embodies the car that revolutionized the automotive landscape and forever linked the image of Citroën with the highest office in the nation.

In conclusion, these Heritage Days provide DS Automobiles with exceptional visibility. To exhibit in the courtyard of the Elysée is to speak directly to the hearts of the French and international public, affirming its status as a premium brand with both a prestigious heritage and an ambitious vision for the future. As an observer, I cannot help but note that the Cour d'Honneur sometimes becomes the stage for a friendly rivalry among France's major car manufacturers to see who will supply the President. This year, by placing its all-electric flagship at the center of attention, DS Automobiles has unquestionably won a symbolic victory, proving that innovation and respect for history are the keys to prestige.