A one-of-a-kind DS 3 E-TENSE Antoine de Saint Exupéry Edition, donated by DS Automobiles and the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation, has sold for €75,000 during a prestigious charity gala hosted by the Gustave Roussy Foundation. The auction proceeds will directly support pediatric cancer research.
This special 100% electric vehicle—an artistic tribute to The Little Prince—was presented during a gala attended by high-profile figures, including DS Automobiles CEO Xavier Peugeot and Olivier d’Agay, great-nephew of the renowned French writer and President of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation. The auction marks a powerful moment in the partnership between DS Automobiles and the Foundation, which began in May 2024.
Blending futuristic elegance, clean lines, and technological excellence with the art of travel, DS Automobiles brought the literary world of Antoine de Saint Exupéry to life in this exclusive vehicle. The DS 3 E-TENSE Antoine de Saint Exupéry Collection is more than a car—it’s a rolling homage to the enduring message of The Little Prince: you don’t have to leave the world to change it.
The vehicle was originally donated to the Foundation as part of DS’s tribute to Saint Exupéry, who died 80 years ago. Designed with bespoke details that echo his visionary spirit, the car symbolizes hope, imagination, and solidarity.
Proceeds from the sale will support the “Treating Childhood Cancers in the 21st Century” campaign led by the Gustave Roussy Foundation, one of Europe’s leading cancer research centers. The charity gala brought together First Lady Brigitte Macron, French Health Minister Yannick Neuder, Paris and Île-de-France Prefect Marc Guillaume, and other influential supporters.
During the evening, DS Automobiles added a special touch—offering the auction winner a visit to the DS DESIGN STUDIO PARIS. Accompanied by DS Design Director Thierry Métroz, the lucky new owner will have the rare opportunity to personalize their DS 3 E-TENSE alongside the brand’s leading designers.
Xavier Peugeot and Olivier d’Agay
Speaking about the impact of the initiative, DS Automobiles CEO Xavier Peugeot said:
“The proceeds from the auction of this 100% electric DS 3 E-TENSE Little Prince edition will offer hope to children battling cancer. We are proud to support the tireless work of the Gustave Roussy Foundation in such a tangible way. I thank the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation for spearheading this effort. As Saint Exupéry once said, ‘Let life never extinguish the dreams of children—let dreams brighten their lives.’”
Olivier d’Agay, President of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation, added:
“We’re honored that DS Automobiles organized this tribute in memory of Antoine de Saint Exupéry, who passed away on July 31, 1944. As a symbol of French cultural heritage, this remarkable car may be one of the most inspired creations yet. By joining forces with DS, we proudly support the fight against pediatric cancer and contribute to a cause that truly matters.”
