Ascariss Design, a renowned pixel artist, has once again fascinated automotive enthusiasts with a concept that defies conventional boundaries. The Chevrolet Roadster, a digital rendering, blends the sleek lines of the Jaguar F-Type Convertible with the modern electric appeal of the Chevrolet Equinox EV.
This thought provoking design, while unlikely to ever grace a production line, offers a look into a potential future for electric sports cars. The Roadster’s distinctive features include a closed front end, suggesting its all electric powertrain.
While both Jaguar and Chevrolet are transitioning to electric vehicles, Jaguar’s commitment is more pronounced, with plans to go fully electric by 2025. In contrast, Chevrolet’s electric offerings are primarily based on the BEV3 platform, which is designed for more practical vehicles.
The Chevrolet Roadster’s design raises questions about the future of iconic sports car names like the Camaro. General Motors has expressed interest in developing an electric pony car, but the specific form it will take remains uncertain. Some speculate that the Camaro name could be revived as an electric sedan or even a coupe-like crossover, similar to Ford’s Mustang Mach-E.
While the Chevrolet Roadster is merely a digital concept, it serves as a reminder of the potential for innovative and exciting electric vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it is clear that the future of sports cars will be shaped by electric power and cutting-edge design. The chances of a Chevy-badged electric roadster, especially one bearing the Camaro name, emerging by the end of the decade seem slim.
Convertible sales in the United States have been dismal, and the declining demand for pony cars led GM to discontinue the Camaro without a direct successor. This isn’t the first time GM has made a similar decision. In 2002, they discontinued the F-body Catfish due to a weakening market for coupes and convertibles. However, they revived the Camaro in 2010, featuring retro styling cues.
The fifth-generation Camaro achieved impressive sales, reaching 88,249 units in 2011. Unfortunately, the sixth generation failed to match this success, only selling 72,705 units in 2016. Meanwhile, Jaguar also faced challenges with its F-Type sports car.
Despite selling 87,731 units at Castle Bromwich, production ceased in June 2024. The final F-Type featured a classic E-Type inspired design. Instead of focusing on a new two or three door sports tourer, Jaguar’s upcoming EV lineup will prioritize a four or five door grand tourer, followed by mid- and full-size SUVs.
