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This post looks at EVs and Towing.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way in recent years. Many manufacturers now offer models with impressive towing capabilities. Yet, there are still limitations to consider when it comes to EV towing vehicles. 

Know and understand the specific towing capacity of the EV you are  considering to buy. Read on to learn more!


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EVs and Towing | What are my Options?

We measure EV towing capacity in pounds and obviously this varies between different models.

EXAMPLE:

The Tesla Model X has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds
The Ford Mustang Mach-E has a towing capacity of only 2,000 pounds

Many factors affect EV SUV ‘towing capacity’. Included here are the specific trim level of the EV, and the type of hitch or trailer used.

Not sure what vehicle suits your lifestyle, and you? Our Car Types pages will help. Read more about towing an EV and other electric vehicle facts as supplied by the United States government.

Not sure what vehicle suits your lifestyle, and you? Our Car Types pages will help. Read more about towing an EV and other electric vehicle facts as supplied by the United States government.

The Best EV for Towing

Always consider the type of vehicle when it comes to the best EV for towing. A compact EV like the Nissan Leaf might be a good option. This is only if you look to tow a small boat or a lightweight trailer.

Do you need to tow a heavier trailer or camper? Get a bigger EV. In my opinion, the Tesla Model X or the Rivian R1T, would be a better choice.

SUVs are a popular choice to tow a whole lot of things. Add to this, many EV SUV models now have impressive towing capabilities.

EV towing

The Lucid Air has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it one of the best EV SUVs for towing. The Rivian R1S can tow up to 7,716 pounds! It is a great option for heavy-duty towing.

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The Tesla Model S Plaid

One of the best EVs for long-distance towing, the Tesla Model S Plaid, has a range of more than 400 miles.

The Tesla Model S Plaid is a high-performance electric sedan that has impressive towing capabilities. According to Tesla, the Model S Plaid has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. It is capable of towing a wide range of vehicles and trailers, including small boats, travel trailers, and small campers.


New Hummer EV

What is the towing capacity of the latest new Hummer EV? This EV, is a pick-up truck EV with towing capacity of up to 11,500 lbs. The Hummer EV is one of the few electric vehicles on the market with a towing capacity that high. The Hummer is a great EV towing option for heavy-duty towing.


The Lucid Air

The Lucid Air is equipped with a dual-motor powertrain that provides a total output of 800 horsepower. Therefore it is one of the most powerful EVs on the market. This, combined with its advanced suspension and aerodynamics, allows it to handle the added weight of a trailer with ease.


Rivian R1S

The Rivian R1S is an electric adventure vehicle that has impressive towing capabilities. According to Rivian, the R1S has a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. This monster is one of the most capable EVs on the market for towing heavy loads. It has no problem with boats, RVs, or horse trailers.

The Rivian R1S is equipped with a quad-motor powertrain. It provides a total output of 1,000 horsepower, one of the most powerful EVs on the market.


The Tesla Model X

Model X has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This workhorse is capable of towing a wide range of vehicles and trailers, including small boats, travel trailers, and small campers.


Can You Tow an EV?

Yes, it is possible to tow an electric vehicle (EV) with the right equipment and proper precautions. However, EVs and towing can be more complex than towing a traditional gas-powered vehicle. Furthermore, there are some specific considerations to keep in mind.

When towing an EV, it’s important to use a flatbed trailer or a dolly, as opposed to a traditional tow hitch. The weight of the vehicle, and the added stress of towing, can cause damage. More specifically, to the drivetrain and other components of the EV.

Additionally, the braking system of the EV may also require special attention. Notably, the electric brakes on an EV are different from those on a gas-powered vehicle.

The other important thing to consider is the charging of the vehicle. If the EV is not charged, towing an EV can be a challenge. As the vehicle will be in tow mode, the battery will not charge, which means that the vehicle will lose range over time.

Still, it’s important to have a plan in place to keep the battery charged during transport. This can be done by using a portable charging station. You could charge the EV at a charging station before it gets towed.

EVs and Towing | Capacity is Key

Always confirm the towing capacity when it comes to EVs and towing. Obviously this is true of the EV you are planning to tow. Not all electric vehicles have the same towing capacity, and it’s important to make sure the vehicle can handle the weight of the trailer or load being towed.

How Does Towing Affect EV Range?

Range and EVs is an ongoing talking point. Towing can have a significant impact on the range of EVs and towing. The added weight of the trailer or vehicle being towed puts extra strain on the battery and motors. This reduces the charge much quicker.

ev towing

How to Ensure That You Have Enough Range to Complete Your Towing Journey

Choose the best towing EV with the highest towing capacity that you can afford. Make sure that you have enough range to complete your towing journey. This rings true in particular when you use an EV for towing.

EVs and Towing | Follow These Steps for a Longer Trip

Follow the steps below to add range to your trip. Doing this can help guarantee that you have enough range to complete your towing journey… Safely and with confidence.

car transport destinations

#1 Plan Your Route

Before you set out on your journey, plan your route. Take into account the location of charging stations along the way. This will help you to identify any potential range anxiety hotspots and plan accordingly for EVs and towing.


#2 Check the Weather

Weather conditions can have an impact on the range of EVs and towing. Therefore it’s important to check the forecast before you set out on your journey. Cold temperatures decrease the range of an EV. Thus it is good karma to plan your journey for a milder day.


#3 Use a Range Calculator

Many EV manufacturers have range calculators on their websites. They help you to estimate the range of your vehicle based on your specific driving conditions. This can help you to plan your journey more accurately.


#4 Use The Highest Available Energy Efficient Mode

Many electric vehicles have various modes such as Eco mode, Sport mode, and more. When towing an EV, engage the highest energy efficient mode to maximize the range.


#5 Charge the Vehicle to Max

EVs and towing. Before you embark on a towing journey, it’s best to charge the vehicle to the fullest extent possible. This will give you the best chance of completing your journey without having to stop and charge along the way.


#6 Pay Attention to the Speed

Towing puts extra strain on the battery and motors. With this in mind, it’s important to maintain a moderate speed to reduce the impact on the range.


#7 Keep an Eye on the Battery Level

Check the battery level throughout your journey. Be prepared to stop and charge if necessary. This can help you avoid running out of power unexpectedly.

By following these steps for EVs and towing, you can ensure that you have enough range to complete your towing journey, with confidence and in safety.


EVs and Towing | Consider Auto Shipping

If you’re looking to tow an electric vehicle (EV), you don’t have to stress over finding the best EV for towing. Neither should you spend a fortune on the right vehicle.

You can avoid the stress and worry of towing an EV completely. Why spend a fortune on the best EV for towing? Contact a Nationwide Auto Transportation Consultant today. They will help formulate the best EV shipping solution for your budget. Click below for a free quote.

Instead, contact a Nationwide Auto Transportation Consultant today. They will help you find the best EV shipping solution for your budget. At the same time they take care of the towing for you.

Have you checked out our guide to the best compact SUVs?

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