Archives

Hypermiling with the top down. (http://wot.motortrend.com/6243082/green/california_company_builds_prius_convertible/index.html)
http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/Prius_vert1.jpgMotor Trend - May 2, 2008

California-based company Newport Convertible Engineering (NCE) has "gone green" with their latest wild convertible conversion of a new Toyota Prius Hybrid built for one sun-loving owner.

Known for producing convertible versions of cars before manufacturers have developed their own models -- NCE was one of the first to offer a convertible VW Beetle before the German automaker -- we're hoping Toyota won't follow suit with the former Motor Trend Car of the Year after seeing these pictures.

NCE first chopped the Toyota's roof completely off and then replaced it with a custom canvas soft-top reinforced by stick-like window frames and a NCE roll bar. Judging from the images, this setup doesn't look to be too beneficial for the fuel efficient aerodynamics that Toyota worked so hard to integrate into the hybrid's design.

The strange looking Prius was reportedly converted as a one-off car for their eccentric customer. Let's hope they keep it that way.

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/Prius_vert.jpg
http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/Prius_vert2.jpg

Is this debate on the horizon: The ragtop is lighter, but has a higher Cd.

Convertibles are rarely lighter then their hardtop counterparts due to the convertibles extra frame stiffening requirements.

Euroford is right-convertibles are usually 100-150 lbs heavier.If they don't stiffen the bottom of the frame,they flex all over the place-like this one probably will.

Still,I don't think it is bad looking.In general,I don't like soft tops; it is too hot and too wet in NOLA to want to let the sun in.Besides, it is too easy to soundlessly break into a soft top-just use a knife-and it costs huge $$ to replace the top.

Not bad looking, but not for me. If they would stretch a Prius about 2 feet,I would be tempted(like the Prius Limo featured on the forum one day)
Charlie

I think it looks good - and if it gets a few more 20mpg owners into a Prius, great!