PSA Forms New DS Performance Unit

PSA Peugeot Citroen's DS Automobiles unit has formed a new motorsport and performance group.

DS Performance will oversee PSA's racing efforts and be responsible for some advanced research and development activities, including those related to technology for electric car racing. In addition to consolidating all the company's motorsports activities, the unit will help showcase the "avant-garde spirit" and technical expertise of the DS brand, the company says.

DS Performance will be headed by Yves Matton, who previously led Citroen's motorsports program. The group will be based at the PSA Excellence Center in Satory, France.

The initial focus will be to support the DS Virgin Racing team that competes on the Formula E circuit for electric vehicles. DS Automobiles developed the electric motor, transmission, rear suspension and cooling system for the team's DSV-01 racecar. It also worked with Magneti Marelli on the motor management system.

PSA expects to eventually transfer technologies developed by DS Performance to future plug-in hybrid and all-electric production vehicles.

PSA revived the DS name in 2010 and last year made it a standalone brand for premium cars. The name comes from the Citroen DS luxury car, which was produced from 1955 to 1975.