You’ll find more convertible drivers in the UK than anywhere else in the world. Maybe it’s because of our inclement weather rather than in spite of it. When the sun’s out, we want to make the most of it, no matter where we are! Some neat technology from Smart Tops is making it even easier for Britain’s convertible loving drivers to do just that.

Nothing quite beats the feeling of driving with the roof down when the sun’s shining. However, pulling over just to put the roof down, or worse, needing to get the roof up fast because the heavens have opened up isn’t fun.

Types of Porsche convertibles

There is nothing quite like a Porsche – the performance and quality of these vehicles is second to none. Although these thrilling motors are at the pinnacle of automotive engineering and exciting driving experiences, a Porsche convertible tops the sensation of a ‘regular’ Porsche. The feel of the wind rushing around you as you race down the road is unbeatable.

Boxter and Carrera have the most variety when it comes to Porsche convertible options. If you’re looking for a classic Porsche convertible that will age gracefully and increase in value as she ages, you can’t go wrong with a Porsche 911 Targa convertible. Part of the beauty of these iconic cars is they retain much of their streamlined, aerodynamic design – even with the top down.

Whichever classic convertible you choose though, it’s worth updating the tech behind the buttons. That way, you can enjoy having the top down, no matter how changeable the weather in the UK is.

Smart Top convertible roof controls

A great little piece of tech enables you to upgrade the factory unit controlling the up/down action for your convertible’s sunroof. When the SmartTOP roof control is integrated you’ll be able to operate the roof while on the go. Most older style convertibles require the driver to be in the car, and the handbrake engaged, for the roof to move up or down. Even older convertibles require the driver to get out and manually remove or replace the roof – but that’s a story for another blog!

SmartTOPs’ roof control for convertibles plugs into the existing convertible roof motor. This clever little piece of kit has a safe speed control mechanism that stops the open and close buttons working at high speeds. However, it also over-rides the need to engage the handbrake to operate the roof. Instead, you’ll just need to slow you vehicle to a sedate 25mph or less for it to allow the roof buttons to work. Even if the e-brake signalling switch is broken, the SmartTOP controller will continue to work.

What’s more, there’s a one touch remote to enable the roof to be activated from the key fob. No more getting into a hot car, or rushing back to your vehicle to close the roof if it’s started to rain! The system is individually programmable, you’ll be able to configure various functions and personalise preferences for security and convenience.

Installation of the SmartTOP Roof Control in the Porsche 911

Installation of the unit is almost as simple as operating it once it’s connected. At the back end of the convertible remove the plastic cover at the rear of the car between the back seats and boot. The soft top needs to be partially up, but not all the way up or down, in order to access the area where the SmartTop kit is incorporated.

The unit sits in the centre of the controls behind some wiring. It’s a bit of a squeeze, but once you’ve located it you’ll only need to plug the cable from the unit into the smart control and Velcro the smart control to the inside to avoid any irritating knocking noises. Once connected, the unit is ready to go!

Little updates like these for your Porsche convertible can make driving even more pleasurable. The simple installation, combined with the excellent level of convenience and personalisation, makes the SmartTOP Roof Control an excellent investment for your set of wheels.