Hérimoncourt, 26 June 2024 The new DS 7 Vauban with special protection is available now, from French Stellantis subsidiary DS Automobiles and the German WELP Group. The armoured, premium SUV with protection level VPAM 4 (protection against handguns) is based on the DS 7 E-TENSE 4x4 300, and looks almost identical to the series model.
The reinforcement is provided by armour steel and safety glass, together with aramids (lightweight materials that are highly resistant to impact and heat) and HPPE (High-Performance Polyethylene) fibres. The DS 7 Vauban is only 164 kg heavier than the basic model, and offers an almost identical driving experience with impressive statistics: The plug-in hybrid combines a 200 hp, 1.6 litre petrol engine with a 113 hp electric motor on the rear axle. These enable the 4.59 metre-long vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, and reach a top speed of 200 km/h. The vehicle’s braking distance matches that of the DS 7 E-TENSE 4x4 300. The driving experience also remains just as comfortable thanks to the camera controlled DS Active Scan Suspension, and the turning circle remains unchanged at 10.45 m.
This means that the vehicle can be operated safely without any specialist training, allowing you to remove yourself from danger zones quickly. It also only requires a Class B driving licence. Its maintenance requirements mirror those of a Standard DS 7, and all maintenance work can be carried out in certified DS Stores. Quite simply, the DS 7 Vauban feels like an everyday, tried-and-tested, premium SUV – just with extra protection. This makes it a good choice for security authorities, diplomats in less hazardous countries, and celebrity entourages, for example.
Available with a wide range of options
The interior of the DS 7 Vauban offers the high levels of sophistication and comfort customers have come to expect from DS Automobiles. Alongside the extras listed in the catalogue, there are also a number of optional features packages available. These include an automated fire extinguishing system, a sealable vacuum system to protect from gas attacks (ABC system), an intercom system, and convenience features such as additional multimedia systems, modified seating solutions, and custom stitching and pennant holders. Just like the basic model, this special-protection SUV is manufactured in Mulhouse, France, before being equipped with the necessary protection features and customised by WELP France in Hérimoncourt.
Stellantis and the WELP Group have a notable history of previous collaboration, having worked together on the DS 7 Elysée used by French President Emmanuel Macron. “We’re incredibly proud to have received this opportunity to continue and deepen our partnership with the DS 7 Vauban,” says Ronald Gerschewski, CEO of the WELP Group. Interestingly, the model name is a nod to the fortifications of Marquis Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. The French General and military engineer was involved in the planning, modification and extension of more than 100 fortresses, twelve of which are now UNESCO world heritage sites.
