Electric convertibles are real cars you can buy today, but they work differently than gas convertibles and cost more upfront

An electric convertible is a car with a retractable or removable roof that runs on a rechargeable battery instead of gasoline. The main difference from a gas convertible is that you plug it in to charge rather than fill a tank, and the driving experience is quieter with when ready acceleration. The trade-off is higher purchase price, fewer model choices, and the need to plan around charging time on longer trips.

As of now, only a handful of manufacturers make electric convertibles. Tesla offers the Roadster (announced but not yet widely available for purchase). BMW makes the i8 Roadster, though production ended in 2020 and used models are expensive. Porsche makes the Taycan Cross Turismo with a glass roof that opens, though it is not a full convertible. Mini has the Cooper SE with a soft top. The selection is much smaller than gas convertibles, and availability varies by region and year.

Key Takeaways

  • Electric convertibles cost between $50,000 and $250,000 depending on the model, which is significantly more than comparable gas convertibles.
  • Charging takes 30 minutes to 12 hours depending on the charger type, so road trips require planning stops at public charging stations.
  • Battery range on a single charge is typically 200 to 300 miles, which covers most daily driving but not long distances without a stop.
  • Only four or five manufacturers currently make electric convertibles, so your choices are limited compared to gas models.
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 may reduce the purchase price if you buy new and meet income and vehicle price limits.

How much an electric convertible costs

Purchase price for a new electric convertible ranges from roughly $50,000 to $250,000 before any tax credits or incentives. The Mini Cooper SE starts around $30,000 to $35,000 but is not a true convertible—it has a soft top that opens partially. The BMW i8 Roadster, no longer in production, sold for around $160,000 new. The Tesla Roadster, when it becomes available, is expected to start near $200,000.

Used electric convertibles are cheaper but come with battery age concerns. A used BMW i8 Roadster from 2018 or 2019 might cost $80,000 to $120,000, depending on mileage and condition. Battery degradation is a real consideration—most EV batteries lose 2 to 3 percent of capacity per year, so a five-year-old car may have 10 to 15 percent less range than when new.

Federal tax credits can reduce the price of a new electric convertible by up to $7,500 if you meet income limits and the vehicle price cap. As of 2024, the cap is $55,000 for a convertible, which eliminates most luxury electric convertibles from the credit. Check the current rules on fueleconomy.gov, as limits change yearly.

Charging time and range on a single charge

Range varies by model but typically falls between 200 and 300 miles per charge. The Mini Cooper SE offers around 110 to 140 miles. The BMW i8 Roadster offered about 90 miles of electric-only range (it is a plug-in hybrid, not fully electric). The upcoming Tesla Roadster is expected to offer 300+ miles. Real-world range depends on driving style, weather, and terrain—highway driving and cold weather both reduce range.

Charging speed depends on the charger type. A standard 120-volt household outlet charges very slowly—roughly 2 to 3 miles of range per hour, so a full charge takes 24 to 48 hours. A 240-volt home charger (Level 2) adds 25 to 30 miles per hour, so a full charge takes 8 to 12 hours overnight. A public DC fast charger adds 150 to 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes, though the last 20 percent of the battery charges more slowly.

For daily driving under 100 miles, a home charger is sufficient and you charge overnight. For road trips, you need to locate public charging stations and plan 30-minute stops. Apps like PlugShare and Tesla's Supercharger map show station locations and real-time availability.

Maintenance and battery replacement costs

Electric convertibles have fewer moving parts than gas cars, so routine maintenance is cheaper. There is no oil change, no transmission fluid, no spark plugs, and brake pads last longer because the car uses regenerative braking (the motor slows the car and captures energy). Annual maintenance typically costs $200 to $500 for tire rotation, brake fluid check, and filter replacement.

Battery replacement is the major cost if the battery fails outside warranty. Most manufacturers warranty the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles. A replacement battery can cost $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the model, though this is rare in practice—most EV batteries outlast the car. If you buy used, check the battery warranty remaining and get a pre-purchase inspection that includes battery health testing.

Insurance and registration for electric convertibles

Insurance for an electric convertible is typically 10 to 15 percent higher than a comparable gas car because repair costs are higher and fewer shops can service them. A convertible also costs more to insure than a sedan because the open roof is seen as a higher theft and damage risk. Get quotes from multiple insurers—rates vary widely.

Registration and taxes vary by state. Some states offer reduced registration fees or tax breaks for electric vehicles, while others do not. California, for example, offers a one-time $100 registration discount. Check your state's DMV website for current incentives. Some states also allow electric vehicles to use HOV lanes with a single occupant, which can save commute time.

Weather and climate effects on electric convertibles

Cold weather reduces battery range by 20 to 40 percent because the battery works less efficiently and the car uses energy to heat the cabin. If you live in a cold climate and need 250 miles of range, a car rated for 300 miles may only deliver 180 to 200 miles in winter. Heat pumps (available on some newer models) reduce this loss but do not eliminate it.

Rain and snow do not damage the battery or electrical system—modern EVs are sealed and waterproof. However, wet roads reduce traction, and snow increases rolling resistance, both of which lower range. Convertibles with the roof down in rain or snow are uncomfortable but mechanically safe.

Comparing electric convertibles to gas convertibles

A gas convertible like the BMW 430i or Porsche 911 Cabriolet costs $50,000 to $100,000 new, which overlaps with electric convertible pricing. Gas convertibles have longer range (300 to 400 miles per tank), refuel in 5 minutes, and have more model choices. They also have lower repair costs because more shops can service them.

Electric convertibles are quieter, have lower fuel costs (electricity is cheaper than gas), produce zero emissions, and offer faster acceleration. They are better for daily commuting and city driving. Gas convertibles are better for long road trips and for drivers who value refueling speed and model variety.

A plug-in hybrid convertible (like the BMW i8 Roadster) splits the difference—it has a small battery for short trips and a gas engine for long range. It costs less than a full electric convertible but more than a gas one, and it requires both charging and refueling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge an electric convertible in the rain?

Yes. The charging port and connector are waterproof and designed for wet conditions. You can safely charge in rain, snow, or a car wash. The battery and electrical system are sealed and protected from water.

What happens to the battery if I leave the convertible parked for months?

The battery will slowly discharge, losing roughly 1 to 3 percent of charge per month when parked. If you store the car for winter or longer, charge it to 50 percent before storage and check it monthly. Leaving it fully charged or fully drained for months can reduce battery lifespan.

Is an electric convertible safe in a crash?

Yes. The battery is mounted low in the floor and protected by reinforced casing. The open roof does not make the car less safe—modern convertibles have reinforced frames and multiple airbags. Crash test ratings are available on NHTSA.gov for models that have been tested.

Can I tow a trailer with an electric convertible?

Most electric convertibles cannot tow, or can tow only very light loads (under 1,000 pounds). Towing significantly reduces range because it increases weight and aerodynamic drag. Check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific model.

What is the difference between an electric convertible and a plug-in hybrid convertible?

An electric convertible runs only on battery power. A plug-in hybrid has both a battery and a gas engine, so it can drive short distances on electricity and longer distances on gas. Plug-in hybrids cost less upfront but have higher fuel costs and more maintenance than full electrics.