Three quarters of drivers find EVs less stressful than petrol or diesel, as 39% of Brits cite driving as a major source of their life stress

• 39% of UK drivers find driving stressful, with tailgating and poor lane discipline among the top triggers study by DS Automobiles finds
• Over a third (35%) of stressed drivers say it negatively affects how they drive, making them more indecisive and distracted
• Three-quarters (75%) of EV drivers say electric vehicles make them feel more relaxed than their previous petrol or diesel cars
• DS N°8 flagship SUV delivers serenity by design, with up to 466 miles of electric range, massaging seats, soundproof glass and a 690W 3D sound system

A survey by DS Automobiles has revealed the stresses on Britain’s drivers.  The results revealed that three-quarters (75%) of drivers with experience of electric vehicles (EVs)say they feel more relaxed in an EV than their previous petrol or diesel vehicle. The survey also showed that 39% of motorists find driving stressful, with the top causes including being tailgated (58%), poor lane discipline from other drivers (53%) and roadworks or traffic (44%).  

Among those who experience stress behind the wheel, over a third (35%) admit it negatively affects how they drive, making them more indecisive, distracted or prone to rash decisions. The DS N°8 has been engineered to reflect this, from its up-to 466 miles electric range to massaging seats, soundproof glass and immersive 690W 3D sound system, every detail is designed to make the driving experience relaxing and less stressful.

The impact of stress behind the wheel is more than emotional; over a third (35%) of stressed drivers admit it actively worsens their driving performance, making them more indecisive, distracted or prone to rash decisions. Due to the added stress, many drivers are seeking relief through their car’s features. The majority of motorists (63%) say comfortable seating helps reduce stress, followed by in-car entertainment (52%), navigation assistance (49%) and smooth suspension (42%).

To help drivers unwind and restore calm, DS Automobiles has created a range of vehicles that prioritise serenity and comfort, blending cutting-edge technology with French savoir-faire. The brand’s latest electric flagship, DS N°8, brings this vision to life like never before. With up to 466 miles of all-electric range (WLTP), DS N°8 offers an uninterrupted escape from the stresses of everyday life. From massaging, heated, ventilated front seats and neck warmers, soundproof glass with a 690W amplifier ELECTRA® 3D sound system.

Interior designs include olive leaf-tanned Nappa leather and Alcantara® made from 68% recycled content. To further add to the relaxing atmosphere of the N°8 includes ambient lighting, panoramic glass roof, and the DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION system that analyses the road ahead by anticipating bumps and adjusting in real time, further elevating the sense of smooth, uninterrupted motion. It’s this that 42% of drivers said a good ride in their car makes them feel less stressed.

42% of drivers also say that they feel stress while driving in unfamiliar areas, the DS N°8 allows drivers planning long trips with total peace of mind with the DS IRIS SYSTEM 2.0 and EV Routing, which calculates optimal charging stops and arrival times in real time. To further reduce the mental load while on the move, the DS IRIS SYSTEM now includes ChatGPT, a conversational AI that allows drivers to ask for information, inspiration or assistance while keeping their hands on the wheel and focus on the road. The AI assistant can recommend places while en route, to creating entertainment for kids in the backseat, making the driving experience into a more informed and stress-free journey. Meanwhile, the Free2Move Charge provides access to more than 900,000 charging points across the UK and Europe, including over 135,000 rapid chargers, for effortless top-ups wherever the road takes you.

Jules Tilstone, MD of DS Automobiles UK said: “We know that stress behind the wheel affects more than just the driver, it impacts confidence, decision making and enjoyment. That’s why our aim at DS Automobiles is to craft experiences. With the N°8, we’ve created a true escape from the stresses and strains of British roads.”

The N°8 is available in PALLAS and ÉTOILE trims, with two battery options and power outputs up to 350hp, which allows people to reduce stress rather than add to it while on the move. Prices start from £50,790 OTR.

To find out more about the DS N°8, visit www.dsautomobiles.co.uk.

ENDS

PRESS CONTACTS

Krystyna Perry - 07710 062783 - krystyna.perry@stellantis.com – Head of PR 

Manesh Taank – 07841 569 038 – manesh.taank@stellantis.com – PR Manager 

Jeremy Townsend – 07827 896480 – jeremy.townsend@stellantis.com – UK Communications Director  

ABOUT DS AUTOMOBILES  

Founded in Paris in 2014, DS Automobiles is a premium brand aiming to embody the French art of travel. Thanks to an exceptional heritage, exemplified by the 1955 DS and enriched by the wealth of French culture, DS Automobiles offers a global and diverse range with DS 3, DS 4, DS 7 and DS 9.

Designed for a clientele seeking something different, who want to travel the world and enjoy every moment, DS creations stand out through their charismatic style, interior refinement, sophisticated technology and first-class comfort. Combined with a suite of bespoke services, they offer a unique brand experience before, during and after each journey.

With numerous records since its entry into Formula E in 2015, including two double Teams’ and Drivers’ titles, DS Automobiles is at the forefront of electrification and sells each of its models in an electrified version. The Brand offers 100% electric drivetrains as well as self-charging and plug-in hybrids with up to 360 horsepower and 4-wheel drive. In 2024, DS Automobiles is accelerating its transition to all-electric with the arrival of a new model offering more than 700 kilometres of range.

With a presence in 40 countries, the DS brand has an exclusive distribution network of over 450 DS STORES around the world.

Follow news from DS on www.DSautomobiles.co.uk @DS_UK