Citroën DS Turns 70 Years of the Goddess That Changed the Automobile World
Seventy years ago, a car was born that redefined beauty, technology, and innovation in the automotive world — the Citroën DS, affectionately called La Déesse (the Goddess) in France. When it first appeared on October 6, 1955, at the Paris Motor Show, it didn’t just turn heads — it left the entire world in awe. With its futuristic design, advanced engineering, and comfort far ahead of its time, the DS remains one of the most iconic cars ever made.
The Birth of a Legend
At a time when most cars were boxy, mechanical, and predictable, Citroën dared to dream differently. The DS was a masterpiece of art and science, a union of technology and elegance. Designed by Italian sculptor and designer Flaminio Bertoni, the car looked like nothing else on the road. Its smooth, aerodynamic shape, bold covered rear wheels, and spaceship-like dashboard were revolutionary.
But the DS wasn’t just about looks. It brought technology to the masses that even luxury cars of the era couldn’t match. The car featured hydropneumatic suspension, which allowed it to glide over bumps like a magic carpet, providing unmatched comfort and control. This system was so advanced that the DS could even drive safely on three wheels in case of a puncture — a mechanical marvel for its time.
A Technological Marvel
The Citroën DS introduced innovations that set new standards for decades. It was one of the first cars to come with four disc brakes, a major leap in safety and stopping power. Later versions featured headlights that turned with the steering wheel, improving visibility around corners — something many cars only adopted decades later.
The car’s hydraulic system wasn’t just for suspension; it also powered the brakes and steering, creating a unified system that responded with precision and grace. Instead of a traditional brake pedal, drivers used a pressure-sensitive button on the floor — a daring concept that added to the DS’s futuristic aura.
The green liquid, known as LHM, became legendary among enthusiasts, representing the lifeblood of the car’s intricate hydraulic systems. Every element of the DS reflected innovation — a blend of creativity and engineering genius that made it a true goddess among machines.
A Symbol of French Grandeur
The DS quickly became a symbol of France’s technological ambition and artistic flair. It wasn’t just a car — it was a statement of national pride. French President Charles de Gaulle famously used the DS as his official car, a testament to its status and capability. In one historic incident, the DS even saved De Gaulle’s life when its superior handling allowed his driver to escape an assassination attempt despite having flat tires.
Citroën’s creation embodied French elegance and confidence. It proved that cars could be more than mere transportation — they could represent culture, innovation, and identity.
Evolution and Legacy
Over its two-decade production run, the DS evolved while maintaining its signature character. The first generation was known for its round headlights, while the 1967 facelift introduced ellipsoidal headlights that gave the car an even more striking face. The lineup expanded to include practical Break (station wagon) versions, luxurious Pallas editions, and even a cabriolet model that remains one of the most beautiful convertibles ever built.
By the time production ended in 1975, more than 1.3 million DS cars had been produced at the Rennes-La Janais factory. Its successor, the Citroën CX, carried forward the brand’s focus on aerodynamics, but the DS had already cemented its place in history as a timeless design and engineering marvel.
The Decline and the Dream
In the years that followed, Citroën gradually moved away from the bold experimentation that defined its golden age. The magical hydropneumatic suspension, once a hallmark of the brand, was eventually phased out, marking the end of an era.
In the modern Stellantis era, Citroën attempted to revive the DS spirit with the DS Automobiles sub-brand. However, despite its luxury positioning, it has struggled to capture the magic and influence of the original. The DS of 1955 remains unmatched — a true masterpiece that represents the height of Citroën’s creativity and courage.
Why the DS Still Matters
Even seventy years later, the Citroën DS continues to inspire designers, engineers, and car enthusiasts around the world. Its balance of form and function, its pursuit of comfort without compromise, and its spirit of innovation remind us of what happens when imagination leads the way.
In an age dominated by digital screens and electric motors, the DS stands as a reminder of a time when cars had souls — when design was emotional, and engineering was poetic. The “goddess” may have aged, but her legacy remains eternal.
Disclaimer: This article is written for informational and historical purposes only. The details are based on publicly available information and reports about the Citroën DS and its history. The content aims to celebrate the car’s legacy while ensuring accuracy and respect for the original sources.
