A Historic Partnership Between DS and the French Presidency

During the European Heritage Days on 20–21 September 2025, the long-standing relationship between DS Automobiles and the French Presidency took center stage at the Élysée Palace. Two iconic models – the futuristic PRESIDENTIAL DS N°8, built for today’s French President, and the legendary DS 21 Pallas once used by General Charles de Gaulle – were displayed in the Cour d’Honneur, symbolizing both tradition and innovation.

PRESIDENTIAL DS N°8 – A Modern Symbol of French Excellence

Created to mark the 80th anniversary of the 1945 Armistice, the PRESIDENTIAL DS N°8 makes the French Head of State the first in the world to ride in a 100% electric presidential car. With a range of up to 750 km, the vehicle embodies France’s vision for sustainable mobility.

Specially designed for ceremonial duties, it features:

• A bespoke Sapphire Blue paint developed exclusively for the Élysée.

• Illuminated DS LUMINASCREEN grille in blue, white, and red.

• Flag holders, exclusive tricolor emblems, and customized fittings for parades.

• Exquisite craftsmanship with straw marquetry, Dream Satin Blue textiles, hand-stitched Nappa leather and Alcantara® upholstery, and a FOCAL premium audio system.

• Advanced French-built technology: NMC batteries from ACC’s gigafactory in Billy-Berclau Douvrin and an Emotors electric drive unit from Lorraine.

This unique creation reflects the finest French savoir-faire, bridging luxury, innovation, and national pride.

DS 21 Pallas – De Gaulle’s Presidential Car

On display alongside the N°8 was the DS 21 Pallas, used by General Charles de Gaulle between 1965–1967. With discreet presidential adaptations such as flag mounts and sun visors for the rear seats, the car was primarily used for De Gaulle’s journeys between the Élysée and his residence in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises.

After decades in private ownership, the car was sold at auction in 2023 for €59,040. Its presence at the Élysée during the European Heritage Days is a tribute to DS’s enduring role in French presidential history, especially as the brand celebrates the 70th anniversary of the original DS.

Visitors and the European Heritage Days

Nearly 10,000 visitors registered to explore the Élysée Palace during the 42nd edition of the European Heritage Days. Guests followed a route through the historic salons, the ballroom, the winter garden, the grand staircase, and finally, the Cour d’Honneur, where DS’s presidential cars stood as living symbols of France’s cultural and political heritage.