New convertible could be just around the corner

Rumours that Jaguar Land Rover will manufacture a convertible version of the Range Rover Evoque are rife after company officials failed to deny reports that work would begin at their Halewood plant on Merseyside.

The company told the Liverpool ECHO such claims were “pure speculation,” but it has not ruled out releasing a roofless model of the luxury vehicle.

A prototype edition of the convertible was first manufactured and displayed at a motor show last year and since then the industry has been expecting an announcement that the new model will go into mass production; possibly as early as 2014.

Asked by the ECHO to confirm these claims a company spokesman said the reports were “pure speculation”, but added: “Jaguar Land Rover has not made any announcement with regard to this product.”

Despite the denials, it’s been reported in industry magazines, such as “What Car?” that a decision to begin production has already been made.

According to the publication, a company insider said the Evoque convertible had been given the “green light”.

Since the launch of the sporty 4x4 Evoque the Halewood plant, which now employs 4,500 people and 1,500 agency staff, has been operating 24 hours a day; ensuring a new Evoque rolls off the production line every 82 seconds.

Thanks mainly to huge demand from China Jaguar Land Rover has enjoyed a roaring year of success in 2013; selling 210,109 cars between January and June this year.