CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Why are fewer people buying convertibles?
Sales of traditional drop-tops and roadsters have plummeted in the US to less than 100,000 vehicles annually. That's down from over 300,000 back in 2006.
A century ago, nearly all cars were open-aired or convertibles and a hardtop was a premium option. Now it's the opposite, with convertibles costing more for consumers.
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Practicality, durability and rising costs are declining as companies add panoramic sunroofs and glass tops.
While most car buyers are turning away from convertibles, industry leaders say there's still a "predominant demand" in rental car fleets.
You won't see them disappear completely, as Ford, Tesla and Polestar all plan to introduce electric convertibles or roasters in the coming years.
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