P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The end of the road for DS in Formula E isn’t likely to garner anything like the success its early years did. But its legacy is something to behold
DS Automobiles, known for its success in Formula E, recently announced its withdrawal from the championship. Over the years, they have achieved four championship titles, 18 wins, 55 podiums, and 26 pole positions, despite having fewer resources than their big-manufacturer rivals. DS’s journey in Formula E started in 2014, after being relaunched as a separate brand from Citroen. They joined Formula E in the second season, alongside other major manufacturers like Renault, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, and Porsche.
Under the leadership of key figures like Xavier Mestelan-Pinon and Thomas Chevaucher, DS developed innovative solutions for their twin-motor powertrain. This unique design provided both advantages and challenges on the race track, requiring creative strategies to overcome its weight and torque issues. Despite these challenges, DS Virgin Racing secured four pole positions in their debut season and clinched their first win in Buenos Aires with driver Sam Bird.
The following seasons saw DS’s real success unfold, solidifying their reputation as a formidable force in Formula E. The team’s dedication to pushing boundaries and close collaboration with the brand’s board were instrumental in their achievements. Overall, DS’s legacy in Formula E is a testament to their engineering prowess and relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of electric racing.
