A French Car as Innovative as it was Beautiful
A French car as innovative as it was beautiful. As car designs go, the French have a tendency to think outside the box. And it is not surprising that they would come up with one of the most uniquely designed cars in automotive history – the 1955-75 Citroen DS.
My Introduction to the Citroen DS
I first got to see the Citroen DS when my, surprise, French classmate’s parents used to pick him up in one. The DS standing for Different Spirit (or Distinct Series). Its unique lines, the big headlights (the inner ones that turned with the vehicle), comfortable seats, long uniquely styled doors, roof mounted rear blinkers, and the way it would lower down when stationary, and rise up when moving seemed magical. Unlike any other car at the time, it personifies France so loudly, it’s only natural it became the official vehicle for French VIPs.
History and Development
The “Goddess,” (French pronunciation of DS – déesse) means exactly that, has unique history, and innovative engineering that matches its looks. Designed in 1955, the DS is way futuristic for its time. It is the result of the collaboration between Italian sculptor/designer Flaminio Bertoni, French aeronautical engineer André Lefèbvre, and Paul Magès who developed the hydropneumatics self-levelling suspension. When you have this combination, the result can only be a winner.
Before them, it is vice-president, chairman, and saviour of Citroen, Pierre Boulanger who is the actual father of the DS. After successes with earlier Citroens, Pierre had a grand vision of a “Voiture à Grande Diffusion,” or VGD. The VGD was to eventually culminate in the Citroen DS. Unfortunately, he never lived to see this come to fruition as he died tragically in an auto accident in November 1950.
Innovative Technology
The team created a front wheel drive car with technology that was cutting-edge for the time. Each wheel has its own independent hydraulic suspension. that allows the car maintain stability on any uneven terrain while providing ultimate comfort to the passengers. The following video clip showcases a later model with upgraded features.
YouTube / The Telegraph
Later models have headlights that turn with the steering, enabling the driver to see around corners at night. This, along with all round disc brakes, power steering, and a semi-automatic gearbox take the DS in a unique league of auto design.
1967 Citroen DS Headlights
Pre-Production Order Record
With such innovation, and unique looks, the public is besides itself with excitement on the DS’s release. So much that, it holds the record for the largest number of pre-production orders for any car until it was broken by Tesla Model 3, sixty years later. Upon release, a record 700 pre-production orders were placed within one hour, and 12,000 in total by the end of that first day. This was the perfect car to boost France’s sagging pot-War morale. Available in 2, 4, and 5 Door Formats, and Manual/Automatic/Semi-Automatic versions, its engine sizes ranged from 1.9 to 2.3 Liters. Originally a sedan, it was also sold as a station wagon and convertible. Classic & Sports Car magazine awarded it the title of the “Most Beautiful Car of all Time.” I like this car so much; I feel it deserves three video clips.
1955 Launch of the Citroen DS
Charles de Gaulle Connection
President Charles de Gaulle so loved the car; he declared it France’s state car. Apparently during an assassination attempt in Algeria, it was the DS’s prowess, de Gaulle was riding in, that he owes his life to. So much that, upon hearing of its likely purchase by an Italian company, he intervened to forbid it.
And so, the Citroen DS boosted France’s sagging post-War morale, and returned France’s image among the top auto makers of the world.
DS Evolution, Variants, and the “Last Citroen”
The much beloved Citroen DS evolved, along with a range of interesting variants over its lifespan. These range from regular family sedan, convertible, estate, to the stretched limosine for VIPs. The Citroen DS is also available as a utility vehicle with Police, and Ambulance versions. Due to its front wheel drive configuration, it also achieved success in rallies.
Evolution and Production Numbers for the Citroen DS
Manufactured from 1955 through 1975, it was sold in almost all major auto markets. Such was its popularity. But, as they say, all good things come to an end. By 1974 a replacement was ready to take over the mantle from the DS: The Citroen CX – regarded as “the last Citroen,” as Peugeot bought out the company in 1975. The CX continues with the DS spirit pairing innovation and beauty. But that’s for another time.
Citroen DS Publicity Videos
More Detailed Info on the Citroen DS Evolution
Detailed Breakdown of the Evolution of the Citroen DS
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