Peugeot's tradition in the convertible segment is long-standing . In fact, it was the first brand in the world to offer a vehicle of this type with a retractable hardtop. Since then, successes have followed in this field, but now these types of vehicles are not in demand. So much so, that its last model was the 308 CC, and since then, convertibles have been conspicuously absent. However, what would you think of a Peugeot e-2008 Cabrio?
As we've already mentioned, Peugeot specializes in convertibles , but these days their plans are taking a different direction. So much so that Stellantis is focused on the complete electrification of all its brands. Furthermore, all their efforts are directed towards satisfying the demand for their most popular models: SUVs . The 2008 is their latest offering, and that's why we have this rendering showing what a hypothetical convertible version could look like. Does it make sense?
A Peugeot e-2008 Cabrio is not among Stellantis's plans in the short, medium or long term...
We don't know if a convertible SUV makes sense, but several brands have tried it with varying degrees of success. Land Rover and Nissan suffered a monumental flop with their respective Evoque and Murano convertibles. However, the Volkswagen Group seems to have hit the jackpot with the T-Roc Cabrio, as it sells reasonably well. This hypothetical e-2008 Cabrio is a rendering created by designer X-Tomi Design.
As you can see, X-Tomi design's e-2008 Cabrio stays true to the lines of Peugeot's updated B-SUV. The biggest change comes with the removal of the rear doors, the roof, and the B and C pillars that support it . The windshield also appears to be more steeply raked to improve aerodynamics, and the soft top compartment has been integrated into the rear . It seems to be a canvas top, as the storage space and its position are reminiscent of classic soft-roofed convertibles.
In any case, let it be clear that Peugeot is not planning to launch such a model . The reason is easy to understand: costs. Yes, to create this model, they would have to extensively modify the platform, adding reinforcements to improve torsional rigidity . But there's more: they would have to change the entire sheet metal stamping process to shape its body. Therefore, the Peugeot 2008 remains as it is.
What will arrive will be new SUVs with a coupe cut…
So, you might be wondering, what are Peugeot's future plans? Well, as we've mentioned, they revolve around two main avenues. The first is to increase its focus on SUVs as aspirational premium models to attract new customers and improve sales and profits. These new models will materialize around the upcoming 3008 and 5008, which , as a new feature, will expand their ranges with coupé-style versions.
For now, the future of the 508 seems secure, albeit with some caveats . Rumors suggest the next model will be a crossover-style sedan, similar to the C5 X. Furthermore, the electrification of its range is underway, reaching all market segments with various options. Additionally, a pickup truck based on the Landtrek, currently sold in African and Mercosur countries, is expected to arrive sometime this year or next.
Source – X-Tomi Design by Facebook
