EV Towing Capacity
First things first: not every EV can tow. Although towing is becoming more common with EVs, some still aren’t designed to take on this task.
The additional weight of a trailer and passengers combined with other variables such as poor weather and uphill terrain can drain an EV’s battery faster. This means the EV you choose to tow with needs to have a generous driving range.
This may deter some drivers, but it’s important to note that every car is affected by the extra weight of a trailer, and all vehicles will experience some degree of decreased efficiency and power when you attach a towing load. Opting for a hybrid can help resolve range anxiety about running out of power in the middle of a journey.
To find the right EV for towing, it’s important you do your research.
Choosing the Best EV for Towing
Aside from range, there are several important figures you need to know to understand the towing abilities of an EV. You should be able to find these numbers in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
Towing Capacity
Towing capacity is the maximum amount of weight a vehicle can pull. You should be able to find this number in the owner’s manual, but you can also calculate it yourself with the following equation:
Gross Vehicle Combined Weight Rating (GVCWR) – Curb Weight = Towing Capacity
It’s incredibly dangerous to push your vehicle past its towing capacity.
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity is how much your vehicle can carry on its axles. Use this equation to find it:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) – Curb Weight = Payload Capacity
Hitch Weight Range
Hitch weight range relates more to your trailer than your vehicle, but you can still calculate it to help you find a vehicle and hitch if you know what type of trailer you’re going to use.
Your hitch weight range should be 10% to 15% of your loaded trailer’s weight. To find this figure, multiply the trailer weight by 0.1. If you multiply the weight by 0.15, you’ll find the maximum hitch weight.
Knowing these figures will help you find an EV that can take on your towing plans.
EVs That Can Tow
If you’re going to be lugging a heavy load, pick a vehicle that’s built for towing. Based on their range and towing capacities, some of the best EVs for towing include:
· Ford Escape PHEV
· Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
· Volvo XC60 Recharge PHEV
· Hyundai Ioniq 5 BEV
· Kia EV6 BEV
· Volkswagen ID.4 BEV
Towing an EV
Sometimes, you may need to tow your EV instead of tow with it. EVs can be towed like regular cars, but that doesn’t mean they should be. Towing an EV by lifting the front two wheels and keeping the rear wheels on the ground is very risky and should be avoided whenever possible.
When an EV's wheels spin, they’re generating power. If this power can’t be used because the car is being towed, it can severely damage the battery and motor. Instead, all EV manufacturers recommend towing EVs on a flatbed.
Towing Tips
To maximize your safety while towing with any vehicle, follow these tips:
· Fully inspect your vehicle, trailer, and all towing equipment before towing.
· Leave plenty of stopping distance.
· Brake slowly.
· Make wider turns.
For any questions about towing with an EV, visit a NexDrive service centre to speak with an expert.
Other Resources
Getting an EV Wheel Alignment
The guidelines for aligning your EV’s wheels differ from those of a gas-powered car. Learn the importance of an EV wheel alignment to maximize your handling and safety on the road.
Common Questions About EV Batteries and Charging
Trading in your gas-powered car for an electric vehicle? Check out these common questions about EV charging to help you prepare for the change.
How to Jump-Start an EV battery
Dealing with a dead battery is always a nuisance. But what if you have an electric vehicle? Learn how to jump-start a dead EV with this guide.