The favourite vehicles of the French presidential administration, exhibited on the DS Automobile stand

With the models of Stellantis’ French luxury brand, we can see the full history of the Fifth Republic and a certain take on elegance passing before our eyes. This year at Rétromobile, we will witness the vehicles that left their mark on French history for their prestige and innovation.  

A presidential vehicle

Turning the pages of the album of the Fifth Republic, we discover that DS have long been the preferred vehicles of the French presidential administration. But that isn’t the models’ only admirer: in the 1960s and 1970s, the famous DS 21 and 23 Pallas with electronic injection engines were often the prime choice of business leaders. Even today, DS continues to play a leading role in the garages of the Elysée Palace. The manufacturer has just delivered an armoured DS7 Crossback with 200 mm longer rear seats.

DS 19 : Parisian exhibition

An expression of prestige

From the DS of the 1960s to the latest DS9, all these models express a certain idea of prestige. Elegance and comfort go hand in hand. On the Aventure DS Automobiles stand, a DS21 ie and a DS 23 ie with Pallas finish recall that special care was taken in their design. Aboard these queens of the road, journeys had a unique flavour. DS is also the symbol of French touring.

DS interior

The Opéra model

In 1972, Chapron, Citroën's official coachbuilder, decided to use the tools of the SM landaulets made for the Elysée and the Mylord cabriolet to develop a 4-door SM. This is the Opéra model presented at the Paris exhibition. Its high price, the first oil crisis and the takeover of Citroën by Peugeot would put paid to its career. Only eight units were produced.

DS SM Opéra