Electric vehicles are changing the way we travel. More people are looking at EVs for their daily drives and longer trips. This includes those who want to tow caravans on their holidays.
Many are wondering if EVs can tow. You’ll be happy to know that several electric cars can tow caravans and trailers just fine. Some can even tow as much as petrol or diesel cars. But towing with diesel vehicles has its own set of problems and inefficiencies like higher fuel consumption and emissions. The ban on petrol and diesel cars is coming and that’s driving the move to electric alternatives for towing. Let’s look at the best EVs to tow your caravan on your next trip.
Can Electric Cars Tow Caravans?
Yes electric cars can tow caravans but you need to understand the basics of electric car towing before you hit the road. Electric cars have their own set of characteristics that make them suitable for towing like instant torque and a smooth quiet ride. But you need to consider the towing capacity of your electric car and the weight and size of the caravan you plan to tow.
When it comes to electric car towing the towing capacity is key. Each electric car model has its own towing limit which is the maximum weight it can safely tow. For example the Tesla Model X has a maximum towing capacity of 2,250kg making it a top choice for towing bigger caravans. The MG ZS EV on the other hand has a towing capacity of 500kg suitable for smaller trailers.
You also need to understand the weight and size of your caravan. Overloading your electric car beyond its towing capacity can be dangerous and will reduce performance. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure your caravan’s weight is within the recommended limits for safe towing.
Electric Car Towing Basics
1) Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is a top pick for towing a caravan.
With a maximum towing capacity of 2,250kg the Model X can tow most caravans with ease. Its electric motors give you instant torque so you have confidence even when towing heavy loads.
The Model X’s long range addresses the range anxiety of electric vehicles when towing. You can travel a good distance before needing to recharge but exact range will depend on caravan weight and driving conditions.
Tesla’s Autopilot can make long trips more relaxing but you should always be alert and ready to take control. The big screen display gives you easy access to important info and controls on the road.
Please note that only left-hand drive models may be available from European stock. This might be a drawback for UK drivers who are used to right-hand drive vehicles.
2) Ford Mustang Mach-E
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is another great option for caravaners. This electric SUV can tow too.
With the Extended Range model you can tow up to 1,500kg. That’s suitable for a small to medium sized caravan or trailer.
The Mach-E’s electric powertrain gives you instant torque which is great when starting off with a heavy load. You’ll love this when towing your caravan.
Range is a big factor when towing with an EV. Towing will reduce the Mach-E’s range but its big battery helps to offset that. You can use the built-in EV trip planner to plan your charging stops on your trip.
The Mustang Mach-E also has advanced driver assist features. These will make towing safer and more comfortable especially on long trips.
Check the towing capacity of your Mach-E model as it varies depending on the spec. Always make sure your caravan’s weight is within the recommended limits for safe towing.
3) Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron is another good option for towing your caravan. This electric SUV can tow too.
You can tow up to 1,800kg with the e-tron. That’s most caravans towed with ease.
The e-tron’s all-wheel drive gives you great stability and traction. That’s perfect for towing on uneven terrain or in bad weather.
With its electric motors the e-tron gives you smooth acceleration even when loaded. You’ll love the responsiveness when merging onto motorways or climbing hills with your caravan in tow.
The e-tron’s big battery gives you good range so you can go further without needing to charge as often. But towing will reduce the overall range compared to normal driving.
Audi has given the e-tron some towing features. A trailer assist system and 360 degree cameras make hitching and towing your caravan easier.
4) Kia EV6
The Kia EV6 is another good option for towing a caravan. It can tow 1,800kg which is impressive for its class. It can tow more than many other electric vehicles so it’s a great choice if you want performance and practicality.
You can fit five people in the EV6 so it’s great for family trips. It has a range of up to 261 miles so you can go further without needing to charge as often.
One of the EV6’s best features is its fast charging. You can charge up during your breaks on longer trips.
When towing the range will decrease. But real world tests show the EV6 can handle bigger caravans.
The EV6 starts at around £40,000 so it’s mid-range for electric vehicles. So it’s a great option if you want to switch to an electric tow car.
You’ll also get Kia’s growing network of fast chargers which are being installed fast. That will make long distance towing even more convenient in the future.
5) Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Ioniq 5 is good for towing caravans. It can tow 1,600kg which is most caravans.
You’ll love the Ioniq 5’s interior and range. The retro-futuristic styling might grab your attention but it’s the practicality that makes it great for towing.
Recent updates have given the Ioniq 5 more tech, a new battery and faster charging. That makes it even better for long trips with a caravan.
When towing the Ioniq 5’s energy consumption will increase. Tests show towing a caravan nearly doubles the car’s energy use. Plan your charging stops accordingly on longer trips.
The Ioniq 5 has a big boot of 527 litres. That expands to 1,587 litres with the rear seats folded so you have plenty of space for your camping gear.
6) Volkswagen ID.4
The ID.4 is a good option if you want to tow a caravan with an electric vehicle. It has decent towing capacity for most caravans.
For the rear-wheel drive models you can tow 1,000kg braked trailers. For the all-wheel drive models it’s 1,200kg.
Note the ID.4’s towing capacity may vary by region. In the UK the initial models were 1,000kg.
Volkswagen has made towing the ID.4 easy. You can get an optional tow hitch fitted to your car and then you can attach your caravan or trailer.
When it comes to range remember towing will reduce your battery life. You’ll need to plan your trips carefully so you have enough charge to get to your destination or charging points along the way.
7) BMW iX3
The iX3 is an electric SUV that might be on your radar if you want to tow a caravan. But be aware of its limitations.
Despite its tough looks the iX3 has a surprisingly low towing capacity of 750kg. That’s very low compared to other electric cars in its class.
You’ll find the iX3 has decent range for daily driving but towing will reduce that. Its battery and motor aren’t designed for heavy loads.
If you want a BMW electric to tow you might want to look at the BMW iX instead. The iX has a much higher towing capacity across all models of 2,500kg.
The iX3 does offer fast charging. That could be useful for longer trips with your caravan as you’ll likely need to stop more often to charge.
Remember to factor in the weight of your caravan when planning your trips. That will affect your range and charging needs big time.
8) Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 is a good option to tow your caravan. It has a towing capacity of 1,500kg so can handle most caravans with ease.
You’ll like the Polestar 2’s dual-motor setup which gives great power distribution and stability when towing. The car’s low centre of gravity due to the battery placement also helps with handling.
Range is key when towing with an EV. While exact figures vary you can expect a big reduction in range when towing. You’ll need to plan your trip carefully and factor in charging stops.
The Polestar 2’s regenerative braking is useful when towing giving you extra control on descents. You’ll find the car’s infotainment system easy to use for navigation and finding charging points on your trip.
Check the specific model and spec of the Polestar 2 you’re interested in as towing capacity varies. Always make sure your caravan’s weight is within the car’s towing limit for safe and legal operation.
9) MG ZS EV
The MG ZS EV is an affordable electric SUV for caravaners but towing capacity is very low.
You can tow 500kg with the MG ZS EV. That’s enough for a small trailer but not for most caravans.
The ZS EV has decent range and performance for the price. 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds is useful for light loads.
Inside you get 5 seats and a roomy interior. The ZS EV is 2260mm long, 1480mm wide and 1728mm high.
Pricing for the MG ZS EV starts at £24,995 making it one of the more affordable electric options. But with such low towing capacity it’s not suitable for regular full-sized caravan towing.
For light towing or occasional use with a small trailer the ZS EV could be a good option. Just be aware of its limitations when planning your trips.
10) Nissan Ariya
The Nissan Ariya is a new player in the electric vehicle market. It’s a comfortable crossover SUV with towing capabilities.
You can tow 1500kg with the Ariya which is enough for a small to medium sized caravan. That makes it a good option for caravaners.
The Ariya has instant torque like all electric vehicles. That’s great for towing. You can choose from two battery options. Most trims come with the larger battery pack for more range. But towing will reduce the overall range.
The Ariya prioritises comfort which is great for long trips with your caravan. The spacious interior and quiet ride makes for a pleasant towing experience.
Just be aware charging speeds are not the fastest in its class. You’ll need to plan your charging stops when towing.
Electric Car Towing Capacity
Electric cars can tow caravans but capacity varies. Knowing the factors that affect towing ability and the difference between payload and towing capacity is key to safe caravan trips.
Some models like the Kia EV6 have more towing capacity than others so are good options for those who want performance and utility.
Factors Affecting Towing Capacity
Towing capacity of an EV is affected by several key things. Battery size is a big one – bigger batteries mean more towing power. The BMW iX can tow 2,500kg so is top of the list for heavy loads.
Motor power and torque also affect towing ability. More powerful motors can tow heavier trailers. The vehicle’s weight distribution and chassis design are important too. EVs with a lower centre of gravity will be more stable when towing.
Braking systems are critical. EVs need strong brakes to control the extra weight of a caravan. Some models have special towing modes that adjust regenerative braking for safe towing.
Payload vs Towing Capacity
Payload and towing capacity are different but related. Payload is the weight your EV can carry inside, passengers and luggage. Towing capacity is what it can tow behind.
You need to consider both when planning a caravan trip. Your EV’s payload affects its towing ability. If you load your car to its payload limit you may reduce its towing capacity.
For example the Hyundai Ioniq 5 can tow 1,600kg but you need to factor in the weight of passengers and gear too. Always check your EV’s manual for payload and towing limits.
Remember exceeding these limits is dangerous and may void your insurance. Best to stay well within the recommended capacities for a safe trip.
Electric Car Towing Benefits and Drawbacks
Electric Car Towing Advantages
Electric car towing has several advantages over diesel or petrol towing. For one it’s zero emissions so it’s a more environmentally friendly option. That’s a big plus for eco travellers wanting to reduce their carbon footprint. Also electric cars have a smoother and quieter ride so it’s a more comfortable towing experience. The instant torque from electric motors means consistent power output so it’s easier to control the caravan while towing.
And lower running costs. Charging an EV is generally cheaper than refueling a diesel or petrol car so you’ll save money in the long run. Plus many EVs come with advanced driver assistance systems to help with towing.
Efficiency and Range when Towing
Towing a caravan with an EV affects battery range and efficiency. Plan and technique will help you get the best out of your EV while towing.
Battery Range Impact
Towing a caravan reduces an EV’s range. Range tests show EVs can lose 40-60% of their normal range when towing a caravan. This is due to added weight and aerodynamic drag.
Factors that affect range loss:
Caravan weight and size
Speed
Weather
Terrain
Plan your trip assuming your EV will get less than half its rated range. Check for charging stations along your route especially for longer trips.
Tips
You can do the following to improve your EV’s efficiency when towing:
Drive at moderate speeds (50-60mph)
Use regenerative braking
Reduce caravan weight where possible
Make sure tyres are properly inflated on both EV and caravan
Use aerodynamic accessories on your caravan
Some EVs like the Tesla Model X have a dedicated towing mode. This adjusts suspension and performance settings for maximum efficiency.
Plan your charging stops well. Look for fast charging stations near campsites or rest areas so you can minimize downtime on your trip.
Electric Car Tow Safety and Maintenance
Safety
When towing a caravan with an electric car safety should always be your number one priority. Here are the safety precautions to keep in mind:
Check Towing Capacity: Always check the towing capacity of your electric car and make sure it can handle the weight of the caravan you plan to tow. Overloading is dangerous and can damage your vehicle.
Secure the Caravan: Make sure the caravan is properly attached to the tow bar and all safety chains are in place. A secure connection is key to safe towing.
Keep a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from other cars on the road and be aware of your surroundings at all times. This is especially important when towing as the added weight affects braking distance.
No Sudden Movements: Avoid sudden acceleration or braking as this can make the caravan sway or lose control. Smooth and gradual movements will keep you stable.
Maintenance Checks: Check your electric car’s tyres and brakes and the caravan’s tyres and brakes regularly to make sure they are in good condition. Maintenance is key to safe towing.
So there you have it. Follow these safety tips and you’ll be towing like a pro with your electric car. Whether it’s a weekend away or a road trip across the country you’ll be ready.
