Towing With an Electric Vehicle This Holiday Season

Electric cars are becoming ever more popular for day-to-day driving. But what about when it comes to holidays?

Towing can be a daunting task, even in a petrol or diesel car. But an electric tow car is still something of a new prospect. So how does it work?

Read on for more insight.

Can you tow a caravan with an electric car?

Simply: yes, you can. You will be happy to hear the same towing rules apply as when using a petrol or diesel car. An electric tow car is very similar to any other option.

Top electric cars and vans for towing

Our top picks for towing are as follows:

Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback

Towing capacity: up to 4,000lbs

The Audi e-tron is a spacious and powerful electric SUV. With quattro all-wheel drive as standard and 401PS, the Audi e-tron has the oomph to put your adventure into practice.

Volkswagen ID.4

Towing capacity: up to 2,700lbs

The comfortable and well-equipped electric SUV comes with a host of driver-assistance features to help you on your journey. It also has a 337-mile (WLTP) range to work with.

Kia EV6

Towing capacity: up to 2,300lbs

The sporty crossover is more than just looks. The Kia EV6 offers turn by turn navigation on the head up display. Along with ultra-fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

Volvo EX40

Towing capacity: up to 2,000lbs

The versatile SUV with the reputation of reliability that comes with the Volvo brand. Its versatility includes a very capable towing capacity. The Volvo EX40 also offers a twin motor four-wheel option.

How to tow a trailer or caravan with an EV

Be sure to check the towing capabilities of your electric car. Every model will have different towing capacities, and it is essential you don’t exceed them. Check your electric tow car’s manual before anything else. If you are yet to buy your electric car, buy appropriately.

Electric tow cars are powered by a battery, so we expect this battery to deplete a lot quicker than usual. With the extra weight of a trailer or caravan on your electric vehicle, the battery will expend more energy. Plan extra stops on your journey to compensate for this.

Lastly, choose the right trailer or caravan. A lightweight, aerodynamically designed option is the one to go for. It will help the electric tow car to get the most from the battery. There are also specially designed trailers available for electric cars. These contribute to the regenerative braking system already in place on your electric vehicle. This can save you valuable miles.

EV towing do's and don'ts

DO:

- Plan your route

An electric vehicles’ mileage is affected by towing, more so than petrol and diesel. This is not the dealbreaker it could be. Simply charge before you set off and plan your route properly. There are a wealth of apps and websites to help make your life easier when doing this.

- Invest in safety features

This is not exclusive to electric tow cars but recommended for all towing. Install towing mirrors and trailer braking systems. Sway control systems are also available and help you to keep control of your trailer or caravan. Lastly, always check your tow coupling before every tow.

DON’T:

- Rush

The saying, ‘less haste, more speed’ is appropriate here. Ensuring you are properly equipped, sure-footed of your route and safe to travel is the best way to get to your destination quickly and safely.

- Bury your head in the sand

Assuming everything will be fine is a quick way to put yourself in either an inconvenient situation or a dangerous one. It may seem like a lot of effort and planning to tow with an electric vehicle. In reality, it is not much different from towing with a petrol or diesel vehicle. Towing correctly and safely is crucial, whatever the car. Keep yourself, your passengers and other road users safe.

Get on the road with your electric tow vehicle

Tow without issues in your electric car. Preparation is key, as with any towing journey. Make sure you plan your route around charging stations and have breaks as needed. And as with all towing, invest in safety features, stack up your knowledge and drive safely and smoothly.

Enjoy your journey!