Electric Convertible Cars

The history of convertible cars with a retractable roof dates back to the 1920’s. Early convertible models include the Chrysler Thunderbolt and the Peugeot 601 Eclipse Retractable Hardtop. However, as the auto industry evolves and the push to go electric continues, there seems to be a growing market for electric convertible cars.

Electric convertible cars combine the best of both worlds: the joy of driving a convertible with the efficiency and sustainability of an electric vehicle. With their sleek designs and smooth performance, electric convertible cars are an exciting topic to discuss. Therefore, this article takes a look at what a convertible is and some of our favourite electric convertible cars currently available. We invite you to join us as we dive into the world of electric convertible cars.

What is a convertible car?

A convertible car offers a sporty style and has a retractable roof. This allows the occupants of the car to have an open-air driving experience, if desired. In particular, a convertible car is desirable during the warmer months as drivers can enjoy the roof folded down. Typically, the compact size of convertible cars means there’s limited boot capacity and interior space. As well, it’s worth noting that, depending on the manufacturer, convertibles can also be referred to as a roadster (two-seater), tourer or cabriolet.

Arguably one of the best prestige convertibles ever produced is the BMW Z4, although the Mazda MX-5 is another great example. These convertibles offer a striking presence on any road and appeal to car enthusiasts. However, they don’t currently feature an electric model option.

Are there any electric convertible cars?

Electric convertible cars are currently in short supply as manufacturers have decided to focus more on introducing pure electric SUVs, hatchbacks and saloons. Plus, in recent years, sales of convertible cars have fallen as demand is focused more on bigger family cars and hatchbacks. That said, there are still some electric convertible cars on the market so here’s our favourites.

Fiat 500c Electric Convertible

The Fiat 500 Electric is a small battery-electric city car, available in either hatchback or convertible (cabrio) form. First unveiled in 2020, this electric Fiat takes city car driving to a whole new level as it rivals the MINI Electric. In particular, we like the iconic styling of the electric 500 Cabrio, along with the excellent safety features available. Also, if you opt for the New 500 (87kW), it offers an electric range of up to 199 miles and is capable of fast charging up to 30 miles in just 5 minutes.

The electric 500 Cabrio is available in a range of models, although the Icon model with a 42kWh battery proves especially popular. The Fiat 500 Convertible Icon has a top speed of 93mph and can reach 0-62mph in 9.0 seconds. Plus, it features a big 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, keyless go and a smart interior. With this convertible electric car, the Pastel Ice white is the no cost option. Meanwhile the other paint options are available for an addition cost, ranging from £450 - £1,700 inc. VAT.

Smart EQ Fortwo Cabrio

Alternatively, the Smart EQ Fortwo Cabrio is a two-seater city car, ideal for pottering around town. This convertible electric car is smaller in size than the Fiat 500 Electric Convertible, although it still features a folding roof. The Smart Fortwo model has been around since 1998, however since 2020 this car has only been available in electric EQ form. There’s no denying that this electric convertible car is compact, but this helps to make parking easy and personalisation options are good. Also, for a car of this size, the 260-litre boot space is pretty good.

As for the design, we feel the dynamic headlamps and bold front grille make the Smart EQ Fortwo Cabrio look stylish. Other key features include Eco mode, Smart media system connect and pre-entry climate control. In terms of range, this electric convertible offers a range of up to 80 miles which is disappointing compared to the Fiat 500 Electric. That said, we feel this electric Smart car is an affordable option with prices starting from £23,145 (OTR).

Electric Convertible Cars Coming Soon

As the demand for electric cars continues to rise, some manufacturers have already announced future electric convertible cars. So, let’s take a look at some of the electric convertible cars expected to hit the roads in the coming years.

Firstly, Tesla has announced the new Tesla Roadster, although production dates have been delayed. The Tesla Roadster is expected to have minimalistic styling and a removable hardtop roof. Performance wise, it’s claimed the Tesla Roadster will be capable of reaching over 250mph and sprint from 0-60mph in less than 1.9 seconds! Truly incredible! Another electric convertible car expected to be launched by 2024 is the MG Cyberster. This comes as the MG brand will turn 100 in 2024. A concept car has already be teased and this is expected to be an affordable electric convertible once launched. A two-seater with a convertible soft top, the MG Cyberster will reportedly offer excellent handling and achieve 0-100km/h in just 3 seconds. Also, this MG electric car will reportedly offer a range of up to 800km (almost 500 miles) on a single charge.

Furthermore, the new MINI Electric Convertible is expected to be available in 2023. This is part of MINI’s plan to make cleaner cars as more drivers are making the switch to go electric. However, MINI has opted to limit the number of units available, with only 150 currently available in the UK. The new MINI Electric Convertible will feature a folding fabric roof that can be opened or closed in around just 18 seconds. Overall, it will maintain the iconic MINI styling, but also appeal to modern day EV drivers. Moreover, the MINI Electric Convertible will provide the option to add various optional extras to personalise the car to your liking. As for range, the MINI Electric Convertible will have a 32.6kWh battery that can provide a driving range of up to 125 miles on a full charge. Priced from £52,500, this stylish electric convertible will offer an exciting driving experience while maintaining a stylish appearance.

It’s clear that more electric convertible cars are coming, although release dates are not guaranteed. So, is it worth the wait for one of these upcoming electric convertibles? Reservations for the new Tesla Roadster have already begun so some people clearly think so! However, if you require a lease car sooner, take a look at our alternative convertible car lease deals. At GB Vehicle Leasing, we aim to make leasing a convertible car as simple and easy as possible for our customers. Get in touch with our electric car leasing specialists to see how we can assist you.