Staying on top in the convertible market

The owner of a 2012 BMW 650i convertible will enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while driving with the top down on a sunny day, but will also enjoy silence, conversation or music when the top is up, thanks to acoustically enhanced convertible top material from the Haartz Corp. Haartz, in Acton, Mass., will provide the material for BMW’s luxury cabriolet, expected to land in dealerships in May.

The three-ply composite material features an acrylic twill weave outer fabric, rubber inner layer and polyester lining in standard black or a weave pattern with a luster finish. The latest customizable laminates allow soft convertible tops to stand up to the same stresses as coupes and retractable hard tops: temperature, wind, precipitation and frequent use. With the Haartz acoustic enhancements, the soft-top also provides a sleek, quiet cabin and noise, vibration and harshness ratings comparable to those of coupes and hard-top convertibles.