The Citroën DS made its public debut in 1955.
Citroën unveiled the DS 19 at the Paris Motor Show on October 6, 1955, after roughly 18 years of secret development intended to replace the Traction Avant. Its dramatic aerodynamic shape, created under stylist Flaminio Bertoni, looked unlike conventional cars of the period and immediately made the DS a sensation.
The launch was more than a styling event. The DS introduced advanced hydropneumatic suspension, hydraulically assisted systems and front disc brakes to a mass-produced car. These features helped give it an unusually smooth ride, strong roadholding and powerful braking, reinforcing its reputation as a technological landmark.
Production began the following day, October 7, at Citroën’s Paris factory. The car was sold alongside the simpler and less expensive Citroën ID. Although the DS name is often associated with the whole 1955–1975 range, the original public debut specifically involved the DS 19. The model ultimately became one of the best-known French cars in automotive history.