Abstract: A vehicle roof is provided having, according to one embodiment, two lateral longitudinal roof beams that laterally define a roof opening and are connected to each other via a transverse roof beam that has a base support. The transverse roof beam can be selectively secured to and detached from the longitudinal roof beams by a latching device and has a fixing device for at least one rigid roof panel, the fixing device being displaceable between a locked position, in which the at least one rigid roof panel is secured, and a release position, in which the at least one rigid roof panel can be removed from the vehicle roof.

Abstract: A vehicle roof is provided having, according to one embodiment, two lateral longitudinal roof beams that laterally define a roof opening and are connected to each other via a transverse roof beam that has a base support. The transverse roof beam can be selectively secured to and detached from the longitudinal roof beams by a latching device and has a fixing device for at least one rigid roof panel, the fixing device being displaceable between a locked position, in which the at least one rigid roof panel is secured, and a release position, in which the at least one rigid roof panel can be removed from the vehicle roof.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a convertible roof system for an automotive vehicle includes a convertible roof that covers the vehicle essentially from a front header to a rearmost body panel. A further aspect of the present invention provides a forward top stack linkage mechanism, which when actuated, moves a forwardmost roof bow in such a manner that a surface of the roof bow faces upwardly when the top stack is positioned in an extended position and in a retracted position.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of an automotive vehicle roof system includes a detachable convertible roof that covers a rear storage compartment and at least a portion of a passenger compartment of the vehicle. In another aspect of the present invention, the retracted convertible roof may be removed entirely from the vehicle by disengaging quick release attachment devices. Yet another aspect of the present invention provides the ability to operate the convertible roof independently of the vehicle's rear backlite. In a further aspect of the present invention, an adjustable tensioning device is employed.