The Citroën DS, nicknamed “Tiburón” (shark in Spanish) or simply “Le Requin” in French, is one of the most iconic and revolutionary models of the French brand. Launched in 1955, this avant-garde car has marked the history of the automobile with its futuristic design, its technological innovations and its lasting impact on the industry.
A bold launch in a post-war context
The Citroën DS made its debut on October 6, 1955, in a Europe still marked by the aftermath of the Second World War. Despite an unfavorable economic context, its success was dazzling and immediate:
This unexpected commercial success demonstrates the extent to which the DS responded to a need for renewal and innovation in the automobile industry of the time.
A revolutionary design that earned it the nickname “Shark”
The nickname “Tiburón” (shark in Spanish) or “Le Requin” in French, attributed to the Citroën DS, comes from its aerodynamic and futuristic silhouette, reminiscent of the tapered shape of a shark. Its striking aesthetic characteristics include:
The DS design was the work of Italian Flaminio Bertoni, in collaboration with French engineer André Lefèbvre. Their creation not only defined the automotive aesthetic of the 1950s and 1960s, but continues to influence contemporary automotive design.
Technological innovations ahead of their time
The Citroën DS stood out for its revolutionary technological advances, including:
A lasting impact on the automotive industry
The legacy of the Citroën DS in the automotive industry is undeniable:
A cultural and political symbol
Beyond its technical impact, the DS has become a true cultural symbol:
The Citroën DS, with its bold design that earned it the nickname “Shark,” and its revolutionary technical innovations, remains a striking example of French automotive ingenuity. Its influence endures well beyond its production period, testifying to the lasting impression it left, both aesthetically and technologically. The Citroën “Shark” not only marked its era, but continues to inspire automotive manufacturers and designers around the world.