DS Automobiles has shared its vision of futuristic luxury interiors with the M.i. 21 interior concept.
French brand DS Automobiles has always gone against the grain, a point highlighted by the brand's new M.i. 21 interior concept. The automaker actually refers to the design as a manifesto, as it incorporates “certain regulatory, industrial, and economic demands to be able to ensure faster production.” That means the details we see here may very well make their way into future DS vehicles.
One of the main themes of the interior is increased space. The floating dashboard frees up space thanks to its pushed-back design, while the lack of a traditional center console or center tunnel gives the impression of airiness within the cabin. DS has used glass surfaces, which create a feeling of tranquility and space.
Unlike the traditional wood veneer, leather upholstery, and lashings of chrome that you'd find in a contemporary luxury vehicle, the M.i. 21 uses gorgeous fabrics and materials, showcased by the granite trim, to make for a truly special environment.
Light also plays a big part in creating a comfortable environment. The exquisite, intricately designed circles in the door are illuminated and provide an upmarket glow within the cabin. DS believes lighting brings “a new dimension to materials” and can be used to enhance the in-car experience.
Sound is equally as important. DS points to the fact that automakers are constantly introducing more elaborate audio systems in their vehicle, and hopes to buck the trend. Without giving too much away, the company's solution rests on a single, centrally positioned feature that is both beautiful and functional.
“All sound has been brought together on a central feature, becoming an iconic object by its design, positioning in the cabin, and the lighting that accompanies it,” said the company in a statement.
DS Design Director Thierry Metroz has previously expressed his disdain for touchscreens, and it seems the rest of the company agrees with him.
While the M.i. 21 manifesto appears to have a massive touchscreen, DS is actually testing a new voice-controlled solution that sees the information projected onto a thin strip. When it's not in use, the strip can be made transparent, allowing occupants to look at more sumptuous detailing and materials. The only permanent screens in the cabin are the rear-view cameras.
With no need for speakers in the door – something we've seen recently in the new Volvo EX30 – DS has freed up space for storage. The unique cabin has also been designed to further DS' bespoke ambitions. The space can be filled with a genuine piece of art (much like the Rolls-Royce gallery), creating a truly unique and exclusive cabin.
M.i. 21 is currently on show in Paris, at the Revelations show taking place at the Grand Palais Ephemere.
“We are experiencing a historic transformation of automotive interiors. New architectures related to electric platforms, autonomous driving modes, the arrival of artificial intelligence, and, most importantly, the desire of our customers to live a different experience are central to our thinking,” said Metroz. “The M.i. 21 manifesto illustrates these profound changes, an opportunity for us to share a unique vision of the French art of travel,” he added.
Sadly, DS does not offer its range of left-field luxury cars in the United States, and that's a shame. But as a Stellantis-owned brand, we may see some of this influence infiltrate local offerings, such as the next-generation Chrysler 300 and various Dodge projects. We can only hope so, as DS' solution to a luxury cabin (albeit in manifesto form) is a breath of fresh air compared to the touchscreen and piano black-riddled cabins of today.
Keyword: French Luxury Brand Wants To Change The Way We Think About Car Interiors