DS Automobiles Moves from Formula E to SailGP in Bold New Chapter

DS Automobiles is entering a new phase in its motorsport journey, shifting its focus from electric racing circuits to the open water. After more than a decade of success in FIA Formula E World Championship, the brand is now turning its attention toward SailGP as part of a broader innovation strategy. DS Automobiles Formula E SailGP

A Legacy Built in Formula E

Over 11 seasons, DS Automobiles established itself as one of the most successful manufacturers in Formula E history. The brand competed in 142 races, earning 18 wins, 55 podium finishes, and 26 pole positions along the way.

More importantly, DS secured four championship titles, proving its ability to compete at the highest level of electric motorsport.

Formula E served as more than just a racing platform. It became a testing ground for new technologies that would later influence production vehicles. The lessons learned on track helped shape models like the DS N°4, N°7, and N°8, bringing performance and efficiency improvements to everyday driving.

Why the Shift Is Happening

After more than a decade of development in Formula E, DS Automobiles is now evolving its strategy. The company has confirmed it will remain involved through the end of Season 12 before stepping away from the series.

The decision reflects a shift in focus rather than a step back. DS sees new opportunities in different forms of competition, particularly those that offer fresh challenges and new ways to innovate.

Enter SailGP

The next chapter for DS Automobiles is its partnership with the French SailGP team, now known as the DS Automobiles SailGP Team France.

SailGP is a global racing series featuring high speed F50 catamarans that compete in extreme conditions around the world. The sport combines cutting edge engineering with real time data analysis, making it an ideal platform for technological development.

For DS, this move is about more than just competition. Sailing introduces new areas of research, including aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and advanced software systems, all of which can influence future vehicle design.

A New Type of Innovation Lab

While Formula E focused heavily on electric powertrains and energy efficiency, SailGP opens the door to a broader range of engineering challenges.

The extreme nature of the sport pushes teams to innovate in areas like drag reduction and structural performance. These insights can translate into improvements in automotive design, particularly as vehicles become more advanced and technology driven.

At the same time, SailGP offers something different on an emotional level. The combination of speed, water, and unpredictable conditions creates a unique experience that aligns with DS Automobiles’ focus on delivering not just performance, but also a sense of excitement and connection.

Staying Competitive Until the End

Even with the upcoming transition, DS Automobiles remains committed to finishing strong in Formula E. The team is still aiming for podium finishes and a competitive position in the championship standings as the current season continues.

This approach reflects the brand’s mindset. The shift to SailGP is not about leaving something behind, but about building on what has already been achieved.

A Forward Looking Strategy

DS Automobiles has always used motorsport as a way to accelerate innovation. From electric racing to high performance sailing, the goal remains the same. Push boundaries, test new ideas, and bring those advancements to road cars.

By moving from Formula E to SailGP, DS is redefining how it approaches performance and technology. It is expanding beyond traditional racing and exploring new environments that challenge both engineers and drivers in different ways.

A New Era Begins

The transition marks the end of a highly successful chapter in Formula E, but it also signals the beginning of something new.

With a strong foundation built on years of electric racing success, DS Automobiles is now ready to explore new horizons.

From city circuits to open water, the brand continues to evolve, proving that innovation does not stand still.