If this feature makes it into production units, I stand corrected.

I'd still recommend against putting the top up or down while moving. Notwithstanding the potential damage to the mechanism, it is a distracting procedure.

 

No, its not an automatic top in any sense of the word. Its a "POWER" top. You have to undo clips, AND hold the button down. Nothing automatic about it.

 

Not all tops open and close the same way. The S2000 and some other tops fold upwards then tuck behind you. Some convertible tops (like the boxster) move backwards like a sunroof top, only offering the leading edge to the wind.

Being able to open or close the top on the move is a TREMENDOUS convenience to those of us who live in areas where sporadic showers are prevelent, but the sun is out often. Being in FL, I experience this a lot. It's not unusual to be tooling along on a 90 degree day with bright sun, and have the sky open up in less than 20 seconds for a quick dousing. In 3-4 miles, you run out of the rainy area.

PITA!