DS brand to trail Volvo in premium electrified car race

DS Automobiles has become the latest car brand to announce that all its new car lines will include electrified versions.

Unlike Volvo, which made a pledge last year to include EV powertrains across its range from 2019, DS has promised it for six years later, from 2025.

DS chief executive Yves Bonnefont said: "Starting in 2025, each new DS will be launched exclusively with electrified powertrains. Our ambition is very clear: for DS to be among the global leaders in electrified cars in its segment.

"Our strategy is underway with the arrival of DS 7 Crossback E-TENSE 4x4, fitted with a hybrid (petrol-electric) drivetrain and boasting 300hp, and is to be followed soon with the presentation of the first 100% electric DS model.”

The pure electric DS is likely to be revealed at the Paris Motor Show this autumn.

The DS7 Crossback E-TENSE is expected in late 2019.

DS Automobiles already participates in Formula E, the global competition series for electrified racing cars.

Volvo has a target for 50% of its global new car sales to be hybrids or pure electric vehicles by 2025.