Worrying revelations and news at Stellantis: this week's auto update

This week, the automotive news has been rich in significant announcements, reflecting the challenges and changes within the industry. Stellantis, an automotive group born from the merger of PSA and FCA, is at the heart of many changes. Between the bold redesign of the DS N°4, the concerning addiction of drivers to their smartphones, and the difficulties faced by Maserati, the sector is asserting itself as a competitive field where every decision matters. These elements outline the contours of an industry in full transformation, with major societal stakes that call for reflection.

The wind of renewal with the DS N°4: a bold redesign

The week was marked by the unveiling of the DS N°4, which presents itself as a new version of this French premium compact. Gone is the DS 4 model, as the brand opts for a more elegant numerology with this name. This change aims to enhance its market position against heavyweight rivals such as the Audi A3 and the BMW Series 1. The modifications made are not only aesthetic but also reflect a desire for modernity.

The exterior design of the DS N°4 features a revamped front end, highlighted by a wider grille and a distinctive lighting signature around the DS logo that lights up. At the back, the inscription "DS Automobiles" replaces the logo, a thoughtful change aimed at strengthening the brand's identity. Inside, the improvements are just as noticeable. The main screen for the driver is now enlarged to 10.25 inches, offering a more appealing interface with a 3D effect. The materials in the cabin, made of Nappa leather and Alcantara, are a promise of luxury and comfort, even in the back of the car.

Engines and performance

The DS N°4 is not just a pretty body; it is also innovative mechanically. The 100% electric version offers a power of 213 hp and a range of 450 km, while the plug-in hybrid allows for driving up to 81 km in zero-emission mode. Additionally, it will offer thermal options, including a 130 hp diesel engine and a 145 hp hybrid. However, this new iteration is marred by a limited color palette, which only offers sober shades like white, black, gray, or "midnight blue."

• Modernized exterior design
• High-performance 100% electric motorization
• High-end interior with premium materials
• Hybrid motorization options

With a starting price announced around €39,000, the DS N°4 must convince to revitalize the brand, already in search of new commercial dynamics. DS Automobiles is also betting on the N°8 electric planned for 2026 to strengthen its lineup.

Smartphone addiction at the wheel: a worrying plague

Concerns related to road safety have never been as pressing. A recent British study conducted by IMS on a sample of 500,000 drivers revealed alarming figures: 90% of drivers use their smartphone while driving, and 8% of them spend more than three quarters of their journey on it. What are the implications?

This trend fits within a society where a culture of immediacy predominates. Checking a message or making a video call becomes a habit, but it has disastrous consequences. According to statistics, using the phone while driving quadruples the risk of an accident, accounting for 34.9% of fatal accidents in 2023. Each episode of distraction lasts on average 200 seconds, a timeframe sufficient to cause a tragedy. Even hands-free systems, which are supposed to facilitate communication, can lead to "inattentional blindness," as explained by psychologist Gemma Briggs.

Regulatory and technological responses

In France, sanctions are in place: manipulating one’s phone can cost €135 in fines and results in the loss of 3 points off the license, yet this barely deters drivers. Moreover, modern touchscreens, sometimes difficult to manipulate, worsen the problem. Adjusting the air conditioning or changing the radio station can take up to 22 seconds in some vehicles!

1. Alarming rise in distractions while driving
2. Accidents related to smartphone use on the rise
3. Fines and points on the license to counter this phenomenon
4. Technology in modern cars can exacerbate the situation

In response to these challenges, Euro NCAP will tighten its criteria starting in 2026, aiming to penalize manufacturers who neglect the ergonomics of physical controls for essential functions. A decision that could finally help refocus drivers' attention on the road.

Technical inspection: a void passage

Another hot topic this week has been the technical inspection, increasingly neglected by drivers. According to a recent survey by the insurer Leocare, 25% of drivers are driving without a valid inspection, and among them, 23% do so knowingly. What are the reasons?

This abandonment of technical inspections results from several factors. First, the cost is deemed excessive by 66% of respondents, with an average reaching €80, depending on the regions. Then, 29% of drivers question the effectiveness of these inspections, perceiving them as a sort of "hidden tax." This trend is particularly pronounced among young people and in rural areas. In Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Occitanie, for example, 30% of drivers admit to driving without an up-to-date inspection.

Towards a necessary reform

Although the initial goal of ensuring safety by checking 133 points every two years remains crucial, the increasing reliability of modern vehicles places technical inspections in obsolescence. This distrust of the system underscores the need for reform. For Christophe Dandois from Leocare, it is urgent to make inspections more flexible and to better communicate their safety stakes. Otherwise, it could remain an imposed constraint, far from its primary goal.

• Excessively high cost of technical inspections
• Doubt about its effectiveness
• A widespread abandonment among young drivers
• Risk of compromising road safety

Maserati: Stellantis faces a major challenge

Finally, this week, the news was also dominated by the difficulties faced by Maserati, one of the flagship brands of Stellantis. Founded in 1914, Maserati is undergoing an unprecedented crisis with only 1,700 vehicles sold, down 48% compared to the previous year. In contrast, Ferrari and Lamborghini report 13,752 and 10,687 deliveries in 2024 respectively.

This situation is explained by a poorly defined positioning and a price/performance ratio deemed unattractive. For example, the MC20 GT2 Stradale model, listed at over €300,000, struggles to attract buyers. To revitalize the brand, Stellantis has announced radical measures. Starting from the fourth quarter of 2025, the production of the GranTurismo and GranCabrio models will be relocated to Modena, Maserati's historic site, instead of the Mirafiori plant. This step symbolizes a return to the roots, aimed at strengthening the brand's appeal while improving production efficiency.

Towards a redefinition of the strategy

Santo Ficili, head of Maserati, emphasized the importance of "selling differently" and improving the connection with dealers. Since some models will continue to be produced at Mirafiori, this strategic decision represents a crucial step for the brand. The challenge now is to restore its reputation in the world of contemporary luxury automotive. With customer habits evolving rapidly, Maserati must reinvent itself to meet market expectations while remaining true to its heritage.

1. Alarming drop in sales
2. Return to production in the historical cradle
3. Redefinition of the relationship with dealers
4. Strategic choices necessary for the future

Maserati must now reinvent its image to attract increasingly demanding customers while preserving its heritage. The focus is now on the future.

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