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• New DIVINE DS concept car
• DS brand to spin-off from Citroen
•To be shown at 2014 Paris auto show
PARIS, France - Citroen’s concept car, the Divine DS, will be displayed at the Chantilly Concours d’Elegance style contest on September 7 2014 before heading to the 2014 Paris auto show on October 2.
The Divine DS concept will be presented as DS exclusive model, leading a spin-off of the Chevron marque's premium line into its own stand-alone division. Citroen’s premium division, DS, boasts more than 500 000 vehicles sold globally in four years.
Yves Bonnefont, CEO of DS, said: “Divine DS is an expression of our expertise. This concept car is the very essence of what DS is and what it will be. A perfect alliance between sophistication and technology. Unveiled just a few weeks after the birth of the brand, Divine DS perfectly expresses the unique personality of DS.”
REPTILE SCALES AND LASERS
The Divine DS is a compact four-door measuring 4.21m long, 1.98m wide and 1.35m tall. Powering the new model is the 1.6 THP turbocharged petrol capable of 199kW/330Nm, borrowed from the Peugeot RCZ R, with emissions of 145g/km.
At the front it borrows the ‘DS Wings’ from its DS 5LS and DS 6 siblings while its roof has a unique design which, Citroen claims, resembles the “scales of a reptile”.
These scales feature alternating effects (matt and satin, opaque and transparent). The scale pattern extends over the rear window and can also be seen on the side mirrors.
IMAGE GALLERY: 2014 DIVINE DS concept
VIDEO: 2014 DIVINE DS concept
Its headlights, inspired by the DS 3, resemble diamonds with Swarovski Crystal fabric at the base and two high-powered laser diodes per module.
As befits it's status as a model belonging to a new brand, the Divine DS does not sport the traditional Citroen chevron.
Citroen explains: “These diodes are 50% more powerful than conventional LED lights in terms of their lighting intensity. The laser function works with the LED headlights from speeds of 60 km/h. The light beam is conducted to the headlight through optical fibre for instant, precise adjustment.
The diodes are located in the engine compartment, so they are protected in the event of impact or if the headlight lens shatters. The headlights do not dazzle other road users as cameras identify other vehicles and automatically adjust the lighting.
At the rear, its LEDs feature retracting scales lighting up at night or on braking creating, citroen says, a “magical, hypnotic effect”. Make of that what you will...
The rear is equipped with opening facets that optimise its aerodynamics while its 20’’ alloys feature an floating spokes that are disconnected from the hubs..
EXPERIENCE ‘HYPER-TYPAGE’
Described by the DS brand as "hyper-typage" its cabin is available in three themes:
Mâle - with carbon-fibered elements and red stitching
Parisienne Chic - ivory leather and pleated silk
Fatale Punk - black padded leather and Swarovski crystal-fabric.
According to Citroen: “Hyper-typage is a bold concept that gives life to Divine DS. This exclusive feature underlines the ambition of DS to bring customers vehicles that fully reflect their personality.”
MODERN TAKE ON FRENCH ELEGANCE
More than a concept car, Divine DS is a meeting of several leading companies, each illustrating expertise and excellence in their field. A first in the automotive industry.
Thierry Metroz, head of DS styling, said: “We want the best for DS: the best partners, people who are recognised as setting the standard in their field. And we also want to be the first to explore new territories."
Swarovski crystals adorn the exterior of the Divine DS and decorate the headlights. Inside, these crystals adorn are used on the door panels and dashboard. DS is working with Maison Lesage, France’s most prestigious embroidery house, for the interior.
Inside, it has special toggle switches decorated with stones and, in the middle, a digital clock with a stone surrounds, and a rectangular steering wheel. The seats are inspired by a watch strap and are upholstered in aniline leather.
'CRAFTED LIKE A JEWEL'
Citroen said: “The driver’s side is a showcase of advanced technology, crafted like a jewel. The central console, which resembles a backbone, sets out the driving functions. Its white gold covering is both crystalline and majestic, contributing to the refinement and sophistication of this original interior.
“On the passenger side, a single continuous drape enfolds the console and dashboard, forming a twist as it reaches the door insets.”
The cabin of the Divine DS sports the latest Citroen technologies such as its 26cm HD touch drive interface, heads-up display, holographic display (behind the steering wheel).
