DS Automobiles is ushering in a new era in Formula E. In Valencia, the official tests for season 12 are in full swing. This marks a key stage in the French brand’s preparations. Combining technological innovation, strategic preparation and sporting ambition, the Stellantis group’s premium brand is aiming to make a name for itself right from the start in Brazil.
A promising eleventh season for DS Automobiles
Since 2015, DS Automobiles has established itself as a key player in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. This year, the brand begins its eleventh season. It is thus confirming its commitment to this 100% electric discipline, a symbol of performance and sustainability. Testing is currently taking place at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia, Spain, until Friday. This is where the DS E-TENSE FE25s will take their first laps under the watchful eye of the engineers and partner PENSKE AUTOSPORT.
Intensive testing to fine-tune performance
After several weeks of work in the factory, focusing on strategy and software development, DS Automobiles is back on track with the aim of optimising every detail. Eight timed driving sessions are scheduled, divided between the regular drivers and two talented young women. The first six sessions will be run by Maximilian Günther, an experienced German driver, and Taylor Barnard, his promising and determined British team-mate. The last two sessions, on the other hand, will be devoted to Lindsay Brewer and Jessica Edgar. This special day, dedicated to women drivers, illustrates the brand’s commitment to greater representation in motor sport.
At DS PENSKE, cohesion and preparation are the keys to success. The team enters the new season with a clear ambition: to be among the championship leaders. Maximilian Günther, known for his consistency and speed, and Taylor Barnard, a talented young recruit, will form a complementary duo. Together, they will have to collect as much data as possible before the first race, scheduled for 6 December 2025 in São Paulo. This will mark the real launch of season 12, where every technical and strategic detail will count.
The voice of experience and passion
Eugenio Franzetti, Director of DS Performance, makes no secret of his pride. According to him, DS Automobiles is approaching this season with its determination intact. « We are proud to be entering our eleventh Formula E season. DS Automobiles is one of the key players in this series and we’re looking forward to securing further podium finishes and, above all, further victories. » He also highlights the hard work of the engineers and mechanics during the off-season. They are essential to the development of the new DS E-TENSE FE25 package. In his opinion, the team has everything it needs to fight at the front and put on a top-class show.
Figures that speak for themselves
Since its entry into Formula E, DS Automobiles has racked up an impressive list of achievements: 137 races contested, 4 championship titles, 18 victories, 55 podium finishes and 26 pole positions. These results confirm the solidity of the project and the consistency of the French brand’s performances. Over the seasons, DS has established itself not only as a leading team, but also as a technological laboratory for electric mobility.
A long-term commitment and a forward-looking vision
Born in Paris in 2014, DS Automobiles embodies the art of French travel. Heir to the prestige of the 1955 DS, the brand draws on unique expertise combining elegance, innovation and refinement. Its involvement in Formula E is part of a global electrification strategy. Today, all DS models are available in an electrified version, with 100% electric or rechargeable hybrid engines.
In 2025, DS Automobiles is accelerating its transition with the launch of the DS N°4, offering a range of 450 kilometres, and the DS N°8, a new flagship capable of reaching up to 750 kilometres. These vehicles embody the brand’s futuristic vision: elegant, high-performance cars that respect the environment. With 450 DS Stores in 40 countries, DS Automobiles confirms its global presence and its desire to offer an exclusive customer experience.
Formula E: a laboratory for DS innovation
Formula E is much more than a sporting competition. For DS Automobiles, it represents a unique testing ground. The innovations developed on the circuits quickly find their way into production vehicles. Energy management systems, energy recovery and assisted driving software all bear witness to this synergy between sport and technology. In this way, each Formula E season becomes an accelerator of progress for the brand.
As the first laps of the Valencia circuit draw to a close, DS Automobiles looks set to rise to the challenge. With a close-knit team, talented drivers and cutting-edge technology, the French brand is looking forward to writing new pages in its record of achievements. Season 12 promises to be a thrilling mix of innovation, competition and passion, a perfect reflection of the DS spirit: combining elegance and performance in the service of electromobility.
