**DS Automobiles Launches Stunning SM Tribute Concept – A Contemporary Salute to a Timeless Classic**
In a daring initiative that merges history with modernity, DS Automobiles has introduced an eye-catching new concept vehicle that honors one of the most celebrated models in automotive lore: the Citroën SM. The DS SM Tribute Concept, disclosed in a recent announcement, is a contemporary reinterpretation of the famed 1970s grand tourer, fusing state-of-the-art technology with the enduring grace that positioned the original SM as a hallmark of innovation and French luxury. The Torque Report has already acclaimed the concept as a “design and engineering masterpiece,” and it’s clear why.
### A Salute to the Past: The Citroën SM Heritage
To truly grasp the importance of the DS SM Tribute Concept, it’s vital to recognize the heritage of the Citroën SM. Debuting in 1970, the SM was a groundbreaking vehicle that united Citroën’s pioneering engineering with Maserati’s high-performance capability. This resulted in a grand tourer that was as swift as it was luxurious, featuring hydropneumatic suspension, a visionary design, and a robust Maserati V6 engine. The SM was a car ahead of its era, and despite its relatively brief production span, it made a lasting impact on the automotive landscape.
The SM was more than just a vehicle; it was a representation of French ingenuity and luxury, a machine capable of gliding effortlessly at high speeds while providing unmatched comfort. Its aerodynamic form, advanced suspension system, and distinctive aesthetics endeared it to aficionados and collectors alike. However, due to financial difficulties and the 1973 oil crisis, the SM ceased production in 1975, leaving a legacy that has only intensified over the years.
### The DS SM Tribute Concept: A Future-Oriented Vision
Fast forward to the present, and DS Automobiles – Citroën’s luxury branch – has embraced the challenge of rekindling the essence of the SM. The DS SM Tribute Concept is not simply a nostalgic throwback; it is a forward-thinking vehicle that incorporates the forefront of automotive advancements while honoring the design principles of the original SM.
#### Exterior Styling: A Cutting-Edge Reimagining
The DS SM Tribute Concept preserves the sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that distinguished the original SM. Yet, it modernizes the aesthetic with contemporary elements that grant it a futuristic, almost spacecraft-like quality. The front features a sharp, angular grille paired with slender LED headlights, bestowing the car an assertive yet graceful appearance. The elongated, sloping hood and fastback rear echo the original SM, while presenting a more sculpted and refined design.
A particularly notable aspect of the concept is its incorporation of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber and aluminum, which not only boost performance but also impart a more dynamic and sporty stance. The wheels are large and avant-garde, boasting intricate designs that allude to the vehicle’s high-tech foundations.
#### Interior: An Opulent and Technological Marvel
Within, the DS SM Tribute Concept exemplifies luxury and technology. The cabin features a mixture of high-end materials such as leather, Alcantara, and brushed aluminum, establishing an ambiance of elegance and comfort. The seats are crafted for maximum support during extended journeys, aligning with the grand touring mission of the original SM.
The dashboard is dominated by a sizable, curved OLED display that synchronizes the infotainment system, navigation, and driver information. The concept also incorporates an advanced heads-up display (HUD) that projects crucial information directly onto the windshield, enabling the driver to stay focused on the road. The steering wheel is sleek and minimalist, equipped with touch-sensitive controls that provide tactile feedback.
Maintaining the SM’s legacy of innovation, the DS SM Tribute Concept is outfitted with Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, allowing it to manage most driving tasks independently. However, for those inclined to steer, the vehicle offers an entirely engaging driving experience, featuring adaptive suspension and customizable driving modes that enable personalization of the car’s performance.
#### Powertrain: A Fusion of Electrification and Performance
While the original SM was driven by a Maserati V6 engine, the DS SM Tribute Concept embraces the future with a fully electric powertrain. DS Automobiles has yet to disclose the precise specifications, but industry experts anticipate the concept will feature a dual-motor configuration, providing all-wheel drive and remarkable acceleration. The electric motors are projected to generate over 500 horsepower, enabling the vehicle to dash from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds.
The concept is also expected to incorporate a substantial battery pack, offering a range exceeding 300 miles on a single charge. DS Automobiles has hinted at the inclusion of solid-state battery technology, promising quicker charging times and superior energy density compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
### A Salute to Luxury and Innovation
The DS SM Tribute Concept
