Towing with an Electric Vehicle

Can Electric Vehicles Tow?

Yes, many EVs are capable of towing, but not all models are approved for it. Unlike petrol and diesel cars, where towing capacities are common, EV manufacturers must design their vehicles to handle additional weight while maintaining efficiency and safety. When choosing an EV for towing, check the manufacturer’s specifications for maximum towing capacity, which varies between models.

How Towing Affects EV Performance

Towing with an EV impacts range and performance in several ways:

• Reduced range – towing a trailer or caravan increases energy consumption, leading to a significant drop in battery range - sometimes by as much as 30-50%.
• Slower acceleration – EVs are known for instant torque, but additional weight can slightly reduce responsiveness.
• Longer charging times – increased energy consumption means more frequent charging, which can add time to long journeys.
• Brake wear and regenerative braking – while regenerative braking helps recover energy, extra weight may reduce its effectiveness, leading to increased use of traditional brakes.

Towing with an EV is becoming increasingly viable, especially as battery technology improves. While it requires more planning than towing with a petrol or diesel vehicle, the benefits of instant torque, quiet operation and lower emissions make EV towing an attractive option for UK drivers. As infrastructure develops and more models are released with higher towing capacities, EVs will continue to evolve as a practical choice for towing needs.