It takes six and a quarter seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h), and it can travel 31 miles using electric power.

DS Automobiles unveiled a plug-in hybrid version its flagship SUV, the DS 7 Crossback.

The E-Tense is a moniker that will be used to identify all DS electric and hybrid models. This premium crossover has 296 horsepower, four-wheel-drive, and a 31-mile all-electric range, according to the stricter WLTP emissions tests.

The E-Tense will be a combination of a 197-hp, 1.6-liter gasoline engine and two 107-hp electrical motors. It also features an eight-speed automatic transmission. These combine to produce 332 pound-feet (450 Newton meters) of torque and 296 horsepower – enough to achieve a hot hatch-rivaling sprint time of 6.5 seconds from 0-60 mph (100 km/h).

The dual-fuel powertrain emits less than 50g per kilometer. It can travel up to 83 mph on electricity and 136 mph if it has a gasoline engine. The battery will last for 31 miles (50 km) before it runs out of power. The gasoline engine will then start, allowing it to continue its journey.

However, DS’s Formula E experience means that the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense has race-derived brake energy regeneration which charges the battery when the car slows down.

On the other hand, if the domestic 13-amp plug is used, the battery can be charged in 8 hours or less if the 32-amp terminal has a 6.6-kWh charger.
DS promises that the E-Tense will not have a reduced trunk space due to its bulky battery packs. Instead, it will store its batteries underneath the floor so the E-Tense has the same volume of luggage as the standard front-wheel-drive DS 7 Crossback.

The DS 7 E-Tense offers more than clever technology. It also features new styling enhancements such as 19-inch alloy wheels, and a new Crystal Grey body colour. The E embossed on its gearbox control will mark the car out. This is a nod towards the DS E-Tense electric car concept that was first displayed at the Geneva Motor Show 2016.

French-owned brands make hybrid headway

Although the hybrid was promised for a while, it is now just days after Groupe PSA, DS’s owner announced that it would offer plug-in hybrid and electric models of all its new cars starting next year.