In the earlier period of electric cars, it was straightforward to say that these vehicles were not suitable for towing assignments. Until some time back, the only electric vehicle that could be officially used for towing was the Tesla Model X (which is now no longer available in a right-hand drive). This vehicle had a considerable towing rating of 2,750kg with a braked trailer.
However, the scene has entirely transformed recently. Nowadays, only a few electric cars are not certified for towing. There have been instances where people have been seen attaching tow-hooks to cars like the early Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Kona, despite the fact that these vehicles were not officially recommended for towing. This is not advisable as although these cars may have the potential to physically pull the load, the trouble arises when decelerating. The additional weight of the trailer can potentially overrun the regenerative braking system, potentially damaging that and the battery.
On the brighter side, the latest generation of electric cars demonstrates excellent towing capabilities. The potent torque output generated by an electric motor, or better still, an electric vehicle equipped with a dual-motor, and four-wheel drive configuration can effortlessly get a trailer, caravan, or any other towed load moving. The majority of contemporary electric vehicles are also designed with top-notch electronic safety systems, that offer features such as trailer stability systems for electronic stability control, and trailer reversing assistance for rear-view cameras. It would be wise to verify the specification of your vehicle to understand its capabilities.
With reference to our reader’s inquiry regarding the towing capacity of electric vehicles (EVs), the 1,200kg weight of a combined boat and trailer can present a minor problem. The towing capability of some well-liked EVs falls short of this weight. The Volkswagen ID.4 Pro, Skoda Enyaq Sportline, and Tesla Model 3, for example, can only handle a 1,000kg braked trailer. Other EV models have even lower weight capacity. The BMW iX3, Toyota bz4X, certain models of Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, Mercedes-Benz EQA 350, and BYD Atto 3, for instance, can only transport a 750kg braked load.
So, which existing EVs can tow the necessary 1,200kg? Plenty, it appears: both the BMW iX1 and iX2, the Mini Countryman, Audi Q4 e-tron 50, and the VW ID.4 GTX can shoulder 1,200kg. If you want extra flexibility in weight constraints, it’s all well. Opt for the Polestar 4 Long Range, the BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Ioniq 6 with a 77kWh battery, Volvo EX40 and EC40, or a Polestar 2. They can all deal with a 1,500kg braked load. If you’re in need of even greater pulling power, the Tesla Model Y can manage 1,600kg, the BMW i5 M60 Touring can handle 2,000kg, and a Kia EV9 can accommodate a hefty 2,500kg.
However, what results when you attach a load to the rear of an EV? To cut a long story short, your range is decreased. Even a relatively small but weighty load can considerably affect range due to the drag it causes. Furthermore, there’s an aerodynamic factor to consider. A large yet lightweight load can be just as much of a drag as a compact but heavy one, resulting in similar range impact.
The range that your car manages will vastly alter subject to the car itself, what you’re carrying and your driving habits. General guidance suggests that every additional 750kg in weight may reduce your range by at least 100km. A recent case study involved Christian Schlüter from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, who travelled across Europe in a uniquely modified Volkswagen ID.Buzz for a marketing event. With a small caravan and a roof-tent in tow, Schlüter estimated that the Buzz’s functional range had dwindled to approximately 200km. This equates to less than half the officially stated WLTP range. It’s worth noting that individual experiences may differ.
Another factor to consider is charging during the trip, or at the destination. The process can be challenging when towing because the majority of DC public chargers aren’t designed to accommodate trailers. Often, you’d have to stop, detach the trailer manually, move it into a parking spot and then initiate the charging process. Although there are some drive-through chargers, such as the one at the SSE charging plaza in Mullingar, they are a rarity. They are primarily meant for heavy goods vehicles, and staying too long at these might invite some loud honks.