The Lowdown on Towing with an Electric Vehicle
Have you ever considered hitching a caravan to your sleek electric vehicle? Well, strap in because this is your ultimate guide to making sure you don’t turn your eco-friendly ride into a very expensive paperweight.
The Basics
First, if your EV has been given the thumbs up for towing, you’re golden. You can tow a caravan, trailer, or even another car just like you would with a petrol or diesel beast. Just make sure you check the maximum weight you can haul before you set off, and be prepared for your range to take a nosedive as your battery works overtime.
Why Tow with an EV?
Got a caravan habit? Frequently hauling heavy junk to the tip? If you’re eyeing up an EV for your next tow vehicle, here’s what you need to know. If you’re armed with the correct information, towing with an EV can be a dream.
Can an EV Tow a Car?
Not every EV is cut out for towing. Check your manual to see if your model can handle the job and what its tow limit is. Exceeding this can lead to premature wear on the brakes and suspension or, worse, damage to the battery due to the extra stress from regenerative braking.
Can an EV Tow a Caravan?
Yes, an EV can tow a caravan if it’s been type-approved. Some top choices include the BMW iX, Tesla Model X, Polestar 3, Tesla Model Y, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. These electric wonders can tow anywhere from 1,600 to 2,500 kg. But remember, towing will munch through your range, so plan for more charging stops on your journey.
Hybrids to the Rescue
If you’re a severe tower, hybrids might be your best bet. They often come with better towing approvals and offer electric and petrol power flexibility. Plus, they usually have longer ranges, perfect for those long hauls with a heavy load.
The Nitty-Gritty of EV Towing
Regenerative Braking: This nifty system turns braking energy into battery power. But towing the extra weight can overload this system, risking damage to your powertrain. Brakes and Suspension: Need to be built for heavy loads? Your EV’s brakes and suspension will feel the strain, potentially leading to longer stopping distances and quicker wear. Range: Towing eats into your range, so don’t expect to go as far as you would on a solo drive.
Checking Your Towing Capability
Check the handbook or the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate to find out if your EV can tow. If you’re new to towing, aim to pull no more than 85% of your car’s maximum capacity. Seasoned towers can push it to 100%, but always with caution.
Can You Tow an EV?
The bad news is that you can’t tow an EV with another car. Unlike conventional vehicles, EVs don’t have a neutral gear that fully disengages the transmission. Trying to pull an EV could spell disaster for your battery and drivetrain. Instead, call for a flatbed tow truck if you ever get stuck.
So there you have it, your comprehensive guide to towing with an EV, sprinkled with a healthy dose of common sense and a touch of Clarkson charm. Happy towing!
