Land Rover has revealed its latest concept, the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, ahead of its 2012 Geneva Motor Show debut. Reports were floating around last October speculating the idea of such a vehicle. It seems they were true.
The new Range Rover Evoque is a sporty new model for Land Rover. It showcases a futuristic, concept-like design on the outside, and a sport/luxury interior typical of modern Range Rover on the inside. A convertible version is seen as a natural move by the company.
It’s based on the current three-door variant, featuring a cabriolet soft-top roof which extends from the very rear over to the windscreen. Rear seats still exist, while Land Rover says torsional rigidity has been maintained through various revisions. The company also says these revisions haven’t added significant weight.
Land Rover design director, Gerry McGovern recently summed up the concept, saying, “The Evoque lends itself beautifully to the idea of a convertible. This study is not a traditional convertible design execution – instead we have worked with the balance of the Evoque’s lines to retain its distinctive shape and create something that is unique and, we believe, highly desirable.”
Further specific details will be revealed at the Geneva show, however, some highlights include 21-inch alloy wheels, Range Rover’s eight-inch multimedia screen inside, and a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS].
As for a possible production version, Land Rover hasn’t confirmed anything. John Edwards, Land Rover global brand director, said that the concept will be used to test the waters so to speak with the public for a potential showroom model.
“The Evoque Convertible Concept is a new twist to the Evoque story and explores the potential to further extend the nameplate’s appeal by giving existing customers more choice, whilst at the same time reaching out to a completely new customer base. We are excited to see the response to this concept as we assess the potential for building on the Evoque’s exceptional success so far.”
Geneva starts March 6.
