Retractable vehicle roof with movable arms and openable roof panels

The roof has a support structure (22) releasably locked to a structural chassis frame and/or a rear roof unit (5) in a covering position. An opening panel (21) moves with respect to the structure between a closed position isolating a cab interior (60) from outside and an open position releasing an opening (27) of a front roof unit (2), to permit communication between the cab interior and outside. Independent claims are also included for the following: (A) a method for operating a movable roof on a convertible vehicle (B) a convertible vehicle provided with a retractable roof.