DS Automobiles is building on its electrification strategy with a new plug-in hybrid option for the DS 7 Crossback.

The new DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 225 has a 178bhp petrol engine with 300Nm of torque, backed up by a 108bhp electric motor fitted straight to the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

At start up, only the electric motor is used, enabling zero emissions mode driving at up to 135km/h. The driver can then choose hybrid mode that optimises energy use, or sport mode that summons all 222bhp and 360Nm of torque.

The DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 225 utilises a 13.2kWh battery that is located beneath the floor for an electric range of up to 54km. 

The battery is charged while driving thanks to a system that benefits from the developments and experience that DS has acquired in Formula E. The DS 7 Crossback E-Tense generates electrical energy during deceleration and braking in order to increase its range, while the petrol engine can also be used to charge the battery. Another function, called 'E-SAVE' meanwhile, will enable it to keep enough energy for 100% electric driving over the final 19km of a journey.

As with other DS Automobiles electric models, the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense comes with two charging cables, a domestic cable for occasional charging using a three-pin socket, and a 7.4kW Type 2 cable for charging the battery from zero to 100% state-of-charge in just one hour and 45 minutes via a wallbox.

All this can be controlled through an app or via the 12.0-inch screen in the middle of the dashboard. It is also possible to program or start pre-warming remotely.

The DS 7 Crossback E-Tense has an intelligent suspension system called DS Active Scan Suspension, DS's intelligent suspension system that actively scans the road and makes the necessary suspension adjustments to provide a unique, smooth driving experience.