Cars

DS creates tribute to iconic SM, just don’t call it retro

By 2024-09-23T15:39:00

DS_SM_TRIBUTE_1645@W.Bonbon

DS Automobiles’ design boss gives a walkaround of the inspired SM Tribute concept which was created from scratch just in time for its public debut this month

What started as a lighthearted competition in 2020 has turned into a rolling prototype that might be headed for production. The SM Tribute concept debuted at the 2024 Chantilly Arts & Elegance with its interior design unveiled virtually.

While it closely resembles the original dimensions of the SM – it is just 30mm longer and 20mm taller – the new concept more muscular and signficantly wider by 140mm. The electric car sits on 22-inch wheels and ground clearance has been reduced by 35mm to improve efficiency. Car Design News spoke with Thierry Metroz, DS Automobiles’ design director, to understand why the SM Tribute is an important moment for the brand in its tenth anniversary year. 

Car Design News: Where did the idea for the SM Tribute start? 

Thierry Metroz: In 2020 we did a design competition at DS with all the exterior designers. It was an old personal idea of mine because I’ve loved the SM since I was ten years old. More recently, it became a dream for me and my team to do something around the iconic car. For the competition, I gave the designers a week to create sketches imagining the SM had stayed in production and was now in its sixth generation. It’s a different mindset to doing…

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