Jack Cameron
29 January 2025
Considering an electric vehicle? Making the switch to electric comes with a lot of questions, and we’ve had a few recently regarding towing with an EV.
Whether you’re an avid holidaymaker who enjoys caravan adventures, or an equestrian enthusiast transporting your prize horse, towing capacity can be a crucial factor when choosing a vehicle.
The answer a few years ago would have been a simple ‘no’, but thanks to rapid innovations in the EV marketplace, there is now a range of models that can tow with ease. With the right EV, you’ll be ready to hit the road!
Can you tow with an EV?
Yes and no. Not all EVs are suitable for towing, so it’s essential to ensure the car you choose has been approved for this purpose.
There are a few reasons specific to EVs that mean they can’t tow. One is the increased strain on brakes and suspension. Adding the weight of a caravan can lead to excessive wear and tear on braking systems and suspension components. To put it simply, you don’t want to hear ‘strain’ and ‘brakes’ in the same sentence.
Some EVs also use regenerative braking to recharge their batteries. When towing, this system can cause skidding or swerving and may even risk damaging the battery.
To tow a caravan safely, choose an EV that has been rated for towing. There are plenty of options available, so it’s just a matter of finding the right one for your needs.
Are EVs good for towing?
So if you buy an approved-for-towing EV, is it going to be any good? In our experience, yes. You’ll find they perform well compared to petrol or diesel vehicles.
Towing presents similar challenges across all vehicle types, such as reduced efficiency and slower acceleration, but EVs also offer unique benefits. One of those benefits is consistent and smooth power delivery, unlike petrol and diesel cars that constantly have to shift gears. This makes heavier loads easier to handle. Also, the reduced noise of driving an EV should make your trip a little more relaxing.
There are too many factors to get an accurate measurement of how far you’ll go, such as the weight of what you’re towing and the terrain. A test ran by Autocar found that towing a heavy caravan could reduce your range by up to 50%. Thanks to an ever-growing public charging infrastructure, this is becoming less of an issue, and let’s not forget towing a caravan would be sorer on fuel for petrol or diesel, too.
How much weight can an EV tow?
The towing capacity of EVs varies, typically ranging between 1,500kg and 2,500kg. While some models can handle heavy caravans, others are better suited for smaller trailers. Always check the specific towing capacity of the EV you’re considering and ensure it matches the weight of your caravan.
It’s also important to consider the nose weight, and the downward force the caravan applies to the tow bar to ensure compatibility with your vehicle.
What are the best EVs for towing?
Unsurprisingly, you’ll be looking for bigger cars with plenty of range. Here are a few selected by our team:
Kia EV9: Boasting a maximum towing capacity of 2,500kg, the EV9 has one of the highest max towing rates you’ll find across all EVs. Factor in its capability to carry 6 or 7 passengers and its 304 mile range, and it’s the perfect family car.
Tesla Model X: One you maybe wouldn’t have considered, but the Model X can manage up to 2268kg. Plus, you’ll have access to the Tesla Supercharger network during any road trips.
BMW iX: With an impressive towing capacity of 2,500kg, this luxurious EV is perfect for heavy caravans. Its maximum 340-mile range and comfortable design make it ideal for those longer journeys.
Today, there are plenty of electric vehicles designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, whether it’s daily commuting or holiday caravanning. Just make sure you choose the one that’s right for you.
