Startech Previews Range Rover Evoque Convertible for Geneva
German tuner Startech has revealed its take on the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, set for a public debut alongside Land Rover’s concept at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
Startech, the German tuning firm renowned for its Land Rover conversions, is preparing to unveil its customised Range Rover Evoque Convertible at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The debut is scheduled for 6 March, aligning with Land Rover’s own official unveiling of the Evoque Convertible concept at the same event. This simultaneous reveal places Startech’s project in direct comparison with the factory concept, highlighting the growing interest in open-top SUVs and the aftermarket’s role in shaping their potential.
Range Rover Evoque Convertible by Startech Heading to Geneva Motor Show
Startech’s Range Rover Evoque Convertible Set for Geneva Motor Show
Startech’s Independent Approach
Startech’s conversion is an independent take on the Evoque Convertible, arriving before Land Rover has made any commitment to production. The company has released only a single official image ahead of the show, choosing to withhold further technical or styling details until the public debut in Geneva. This strategy is not uncommon among tuners, who often build anticipation by keeping specific enhancements under wraps until the event itself.
The Startech Evoque Convertible is based on Land Rover’s concept, developed by design director Gerry McGovern and his team. While the official Evoque Convertible concept features a fully retractable roof, roll-over protection, and an array of driver assistance features, Startech’s version is expected to build on this foundation with bespoke styling and interior enhancements. This is in line with Startech’s previous work, which often includes unique body kits, upgraded interiors, and custom wheels for Range Rover models.
Land Rover Evoque Convertible Concept Features
The Land Rover Evoque Convertible concept, which serves as the basis for Startech’s project, brings several notable features to the compact SUV segment. It is 75 kg heavier than the standard Evoque, a result of the structural reinforcements required for the convertible body style. The concept offers both two- and four-wheel drive options, catering to a range of driving preferences. Developed under the guidance of Gerry McGovern, the design retains the distinctive Evoque silhouette while integrating a fully retractable roof system and roll-over protection for safety.
- Surround cameras for enhanced visibility
- Park assist technology
- Land Rover’s Terrain Response system for off-road capability
- 8-inch dual-view touchscreen infotainment system
- Meridian audio system for premium sound
- 21-inch Titan silver wheels
These features position the Evoque Convertible concept as a technologically advanced and stylish option in the premium crossover segment. Startech’s upgrade kit is likely to target both the exterior and interior, though specifics will only be confirmed at the Geneva show. The anticipation centres on how Startech will interpret and enhance these features to create a unique offering for enthusiasts and potential buyers.
Awaiting Production Decision from Land Rover
As of March 2012, Land Rover had not committed to producing the Evoque Convertible. The appearance of both the factory concept and Startech’s conversion at Geneva serves as a gauge for public and media interest. For Startech, the project is a showcase of aftermarket potential, demonstrating what can be achieved even before a production version is confirmed. This approach reflects the broader trend of tuners and aftermarket specialists pushing the boundaries of what is possible, sometimes influencing manufacturers’ decisions about future models.
The Geneva Motor Show is a key venue for such unveilings, as it attracts global attention from both industry professionals and automotive enthusiasts. The feedback received at the event could play a role in shaping Land Rover’s decision on whether to bring the Evoque Convertible to market. Meanwhile, Startech’s version provides a glimpse of how the concept might be personalised and enhanced beyond the factory specification.
What to Expect at Geneva
With both the Land Rover Evoque Convertible concept and Startech’s independent conversion set to be displayed, the 2012 Geneva Motor Show marks an important occasion for the future of open-top SUVs. Attendees will have the opportunity to compare the factory concept with Startech’s vision, offering valuable feedback to both the manufacturer and the tuning house.
While Startech has not provided technical details or a full list of modifications ahead of the show, the company’s reputation for high-quality, creative enhancements suggests that their Evoque Convertible will attract considerable attention.
- Startech Evoque Convertible public debut: 6 March 2012, Geneva Motor Show
- Land Rover Evoque Convertible concept revealed at same event
- No technical details from Startech ahead of show
For those interested in the evolution of the Evoque, further developments can be tracked through coverage of later models, such as the Range Rover Evoque facelift revealed at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The ongoing interest in convertible SUVs and aftermarket customisation ensures that the segment remains dynamic and closely watched by both industry insiders and enthusiasts alike.
