Can You Tow an Electric Vehicle Important Information for EV Owners
Can You Tow an Electric Car? [Dos and Donts]
Yes. You can indeed tow an EV, but the method and precautions differ significantly because of the EVs design and the workings of its powertrain.
You need to understand the best methods to tow an EV and the necessary precautions to prevent damage to the vehicles electric motor and battery system.
Special towing equipment is often required, with a flatbed tow truck being the recommended solution.
Preparation is also crucial when dealing with an EV breakdown that necessitates towing. Knowing how to properly prepare your vehicle for the tow can prevent further complications.
Ill also flip the conversation and talk about towing with an electric car so that you have the whole picture regarding towing and EVs.
Preparing an EV for Towing
Before towing, its imperative to understand specific procedures and engage the appropriate settings to ensure safety. Proper preparation minimizes the risk of damage, particularly to the vehicles electric drive system.
Transport Mode in Electric Vehicles
Your electric vehicle may have a Transport Mode or an equivalent setting designed to prepare it for being towed.
This mode often reduces the drain on the battery when the vehicle is turned off and may also disengage certain drivetrain components to prevent damage.
Refer to the owners manual of your EV to find out how to activate this feature. In some vehicles, entering this mode requires a sequence of actions, such as holding down a combination of buttons or using the in-car infotainment system.
Safety Precautions and Procedures
Safety is paramount when preparing to tow an EV. Follow these steps to ensure a safe towing process:
- If available, ensure the vehicle is in Neutral Mode to allow the wheels to turn freely without engaging the electric motors.
- If your EV has a dead battery or a flat tire, special care must be taken. You should attempt to charge a dead battery enough to allow the car to be put into transport or neutral mode. Consult a professional towing service with EV experience if the battery cannot be charged.
- Always use a flatbed tow truck for electric vehicles to prevent damage to the drivetrain components.
- Prior to towing, secure loose items within the vehicle, and if possible, alert the roadside assistance that your vehicle is electric so they can take the necessary precautions.
Towing Equipment and Methods for EVs
Specific equipment and methods must be observed to guarantee safety and prevent damage. There are two primary means: using a tow truck equipped with the right features or employing alternative towing equipment such as dollies and wheel lifts.
Tow Truck Requirements
A flatbed truck or tow truck is often recommended for an EV. Its crucial that the tow truck is capable of transporting an EV without the wheels rolling on the ground to prevent damage to the electric motor and drivetrain.
Your car should be positioned on the flatbed, and all four wheels should be off the road, securely fastened to mitigate the risk of accidental movement.
Alternative Towing Equipment
If a flatbed isnt available, proper alternative towing equipment can be utilized:
- Dollies: They lift the driven wheels of your EV off the ground, suitable for front or rear-wheel drives.
- Wheel lifts: This equipment can lift either the front or rear wheels, but ensure that the lifted wheels are the driving wheels of your EV to avoid drivetrain damage.
- Trailer with a Trailer Hitch: For long-distance towing, a trailer that supports all four wheels off the ground can be a safe option. Confirm the trailers compatibility with your EVs size and weight, and ensure a secure connection with a trailer hitch designed for your vehicle model.
Remember: Always engage the parking brake and disable any automatic parking systems before towing to protect your EVs intricate systems.
Fundamentals of Towing with an Electric Vehicle
Now, lets flip the switch and consider towing with your EV and the capabilities and limitations associated with it.
EV Towing Basics
Your EVs ability to tow is chiefly determined by its towing capacity, which is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow.
Consult your cars manual or manufacturer specifications to find this number. Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs have instant torque, which can be advantageous when towing.
However, remember that towing will consume more battery power, leading to a reduced range. For successful towing, always use appropriate towing equipment designed for EVs to prevent damage to the vehicles powertrain and battery systems.
Understanding EV Towing Limitations
The towing process can place significant stress on your EVs battery and power systems, potentially impacting vehicle performance and longevity.
Typically, EVs may have a lower towing capacity than traditional vehicles due to the need to preserve battery life.
Factors such as the weight of the load, terrain, and driving conditions can further limit towing capacity and decrease the vehicles range.
To maintain safety and vehicle integrity, always adhere to the specified limitations and consider that your EVs range can decrease by a notable margin when towing heavy loads.
Manufacturer-Specific Towing Guides
Always consult manufacturer-specific guides, as each brand and model has different capabilities and recommendations.
Part of the road to mass EV adoption in America is that electric trucks are able to perform core tasks such as towing.
Tesla Towing Guide
Teslas Model X is renowned for its towing abilities, featuring a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
The company provides clear guidelines on attaching and controlling a trailer, emphasizing the importance of adhering to weight limitations to maintain vehicle performance and range.
Its important to note that while towing, Teslas regenerative braking system can play a significant role in energy recovery, albeit this can also affect the overall towing range.
Towing with Rivian R1T and Other Electric Trucks
Expanding the horizon for EV towing, the Rivian R1T offers a substantial towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds, bringing it close to par with traditional gas-powered pickups in performance.
When it comes to electric trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV, and the upcoming Chevy Silverado EV, towing is a key feature, with capacities that can reportedly range from about 10,000 to 20,000 pounds depending on the model.
Manufacturers advise customers on optimal towing setups and techniques to minimize the impact on the driving range, which is a common concern among potential EV truck owners.
Frequently Asked
These FAQs address common concerns and provide specific guidance to ensure you have the right information.
Are there specialized tow trucks for electric vehicles?
Yes, there are specialized tow trucks designed to handle electric vehicles. They utilize flatbed trucks or wheel lifts with dollies to prevent damage from occurring during the towing process.
What are the limitations when towing an electric car such as a Tesla?
When towing an electric car like a Tesla, its crucial not to use traditional tow hooks as they can damage the vehicles propulsion system. Instead, use a flatbed tow truck to protect the electric drive train.
How do you manage to tow an electric car with a depleted battery?
If your electric cars battery is depleted, its important to inform the towing service so they can prepare the appropriate equipment. Flatbed towing is often the best method to prevent any undue stress on the electric vehicles systems.
Can You Tow With an Electric Vehicle?
Can You Tow With an Electric Vehicle?
Electric vehicle are well-known for having instant torque and loads of it. But when it comes to towing, there's more to it than torque.
Published on
One of the most valuable aspects of owning an electric vehicle is the amount of torque that they produce from the moment you step on the throttle. Since an electric motor creates torque instantly compared to an internal combustion engine that has to spin to a certain RPM first there is plenty of power on tap from the get-go.
Considering there is so much power on hand, you would think that just about any electric vehicle on the market work well as a tow vehicle. But as it turns out, being able to tow something has more to do than just having ample power.
There are a few factors when it comes to towing with an EV
If you look at the current landscape of available electric vehicles in the market today, youll notice that only a select few are rated for towing. According to Autocar, there are a number of reasons for this, and its not because you cant hook up a tow bar to any EVs.
One of the main drawbacks to any EV is mass. Since battery packs are heavy, many EVs tend to weigh more than their internal combustion counterparts. This means that if you add more weight to an already heavy vehicle thats not really meant for towing, there could be a lot of stress on the EV drivetrain and electric components.
Additionally, Autocar reports that any EVs regenerative braking system could be a limiting factor. When you hit the brakes in an electric vehicle, the electric motors put energy back into the battery. This regenerative braking effect is specifically tuned to the vehicles curb weight, so adding more weight with a heavy trailer could add too much kinetic energy pouring into the system. You can disconnect the regenerative braking system, but the weight could still be too much for the EVs friction braking system.
Towing can decrease range as well
The other elephant in the room when it comes to an electric vehicle towing a trailer is the notion of electric range. While vehicles like the Nissan Leaf or any Tesla can pride themselves on having the best range possible, you can expect that range to be cut in half when towing, according to Shop All Cars. Additionally, youll have to drive much slower when towing with an EV, so you can forget about using Ludicrous mode in your Model X.
Which electric vehicles can tow?
If youre really itching to tow a trailer without using a drop of gasoline, then you might have to wait for the Tesla Cybertruck or Hummer EV to make its way onto the scene. But if you can wait any longer, then the following EVs can get the job done:
- Tesla Model X: Up to 5,000 pounds
- Audi E-Tron: Up to 4,000 pounds
- Tesla Model Y: Up to 3,500 pounds
- Volvo XC40 Recharge: Up to 3,300 pounds
There have been other EV owners that have successfully hooked up tow equipment and trailers to smaller cars like the Tesla Model 3 in the video below. However, we would suggest doing so with caution. Again, just because EVs put out a lot of torque, it doesnt mean that they can tow like a Ford F-250. But there will be viable tow-ready options in the market soon enough.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Strategy
This page provides an overview of Western Australias initiatives to support the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). It includes useful advice for consumers and businesses looking to buy an EV, available grants, and what to consider before bringing one home.
It also outlines the State Electric Vehicle Strategy for Western Australia (State EV Strategy) and how it is supporting the adoption of EVs. This includes investing over $200 million to support the electrification or cars and buses in Western Australia through:
- $36.5 million to provide 10,000 rebates of $3,500 to Western Australians who buy a new EV or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle up to a value of $70,000, through the Clean Energy Car Fund
- $23 million for the WA EV Network to provide EV owners with confidence that they can access fast-charging stations along major travel routes, as well as tourism locations across our state
- $5 million to support local governments to install charging infrastructure by providing grants of up to 50 per cent of the installation costs through the Charge Up grant scheme
- $10 million to support not-for-profit and SMEs with grants of up to 50 per cent of installing charging infrastructure around the state, through the Charge Up grant scheme
- $4 million to trial the installation of EV charging infrastructure at up to four train stations, providing car parking bays with commuter charging access
- $125 million in State Government funding to match $125 million invested by the Australian Government to deliver 130 new locally built electric buses and charging infrastructure at key depots.
Advice for consumers buying an EV and available rebates
If you are buying your first electric vehicle, there are a few things to consider. Like, where do I charge it, how much will it cost to recharge and what do I need to do to get my house ready for an EV? The following videos provide helpful information for those considering buying an EV for the first time:
Government rebates and incentives
In May 2022, the State Government introduced the Zero Emissions Vehicle Rebate Scheme to encourage the purchase of zero emissions vehicles as part of its Clean Energy Car Fund. The rebate is available for 10,000 eligible vehicles licensed in WA. If you would like to know more about the rebate, including how to apply, visit the Department of Transport website Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Rebate.
Smart chargers
Smart chargers can be used for charging EVs at home quickly, and at convenient times. A smart charger gives you the power to decide when you charge and maximise EV charging at times when the demand for electricity is low, saving on your electricity costs if you are on a time of use tariff.
Some chargers can even monitor your rooftop solar output so your car charges from electricity you generate and avoid having to pay for electricity from the grid. Smart chargers also help to future- proof your home as they can integrate with the states electricity network and assist in managing energy demand through a virtual power plant arrangement, with benefits for all energy users.
If you are in the market for a smart charger to use at home or in the workplace, you can find an approved list of software and EV chargers on the State Governments Charge Up Approved Chargers and Software List webpage.
Tariffs
Electricity tariffs have been developed by Synergy to incentivise EV owners to recharge their EVs overnight or in the middle of the day, to better align with renewable energy output and network availability. You can find more information on Synergys Energy Plans Electric Vehicle Add On webpage.
WA EV Network charger map
Synergy and Horizon Power are working with the State Government to create Australias longest EV charging network (the WA EV network). This $23 million investment includes 98 charging stations across 49 different locations connecting Perth and regional WA. You can find the EV charger map and more information on the Synergy website WA EV Network.
Finding places to charge
Finding EV chargers near you has become even easier with the use of EV charging apps. There are many EV charging apps available for you to download.
PlugShare is an open-source tool that is free to use and provides drivers with information about most EV charging stations, as well as plug types and charging speeds. You can download the PlugShare app from your phones app store.
The charging stations that are a part of the WA EV network are managed by Chargefox. The Chargefox app allows EV drivers to quickly and easily find a charger and pay to use them. This app is free to use and available for download from your phones app store.
Other resources
Its important to do your own research about EVs and choose the vehicle that is right for you. See below for some additional resources that may assist.
- The Electric Vehicle Council provides advice about EVs, including which models are available in Australia and how to charge them.
- Local automotive clubs such as the RAC and the NRMA have information about which EVs are available, and what to consider when buying one.
Advice for installing an EV charger and available government grants
Grants for workplace and destination EV chargers
The Charge up Workplace Grant scheme, administered by Energy Policy WA, is designed to assist non-for-profit organisations, businesses and local government authorities to install EV charging equipment at their workplace. EV chargers can be installed in car parks for the use by employees or visitors, or by customers at eligible businesses (e.g. cafes and wineries).
More information on the grant scheme, including eligibility guidelines, timing of grant rounds, FAQs, an application checklist and directions to the online application portal, can be found at Charge Up Workplace EV Charging Grants.
EV owners living in strata buildings
There are a few things to consider when installing an EV charger if you live in a multi-residential complex or building covered by the strata legislation. The Owners Corporation Network of Australia has been established to assist strata owners navigate the complexities of strata living, and has created an information portal for their members to access information and resources on EV charging. While based in New South Wales, their resources will be helpful for guiding Western Australian strata owners corporations to allow EV charger connections within their strata complexes.
Planning approvals
A Draft Position Statement: Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure has been prepared by the Department of Planning Lands and Heritage to outline how EV charging infrastructure should be assessed in the WA planning system. The Position Statement aims to assist proponents and decision-makers by advocating for a streamlined approvals process, and provide guidance on development applications, public works, appropriate locations, and recommended numbers of EV chargers in different land use types.
Connecting EV chargers to the electricity network advice for electricians
Western Power offers information to assist homeowners and electricians connect an EV charger to the network. This covers both single direction and bi-directional chargers that can feed electricity from an EV back into the home or grid.
Connecting EV chargers to the electricity network advice for builders and architects
The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety has supported amendments to the National Construction Code (NCC) to include a requirement that new buildings are EV ready. The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) revised the NCC to enable a number of building classes including units, offices, shops and other public buildings to be easily fitted with distributed energy resources equipment, such as electrical distribution boards dedicated to EV charging, to support future EV uptake.
An advisory note on EV charging was published by the ABCB, which describes the minimum requirements for EV charging equipment in new buildings.
The Western Australian Building Regulations 2012 have been amended, making these provisions available for voluntary adoption in WA from October 2023, and mandatory application starting 1 May 2025.
Advice for organisations transitioning fleet vehicles
Guide to EVs for fleet buyers
In line with the State EV Strategy, our guide to electric vehicles provides fleet managers information about the features and benefits of EVs, particularly in the context of WA.
Tax implications of electric vehicles and home charging
From 1 July 2022 employers do not pay fringe benefits tax on eligible electric cars and associated car expenses, which can make adding EVs to your fleet cost competitive with a petrol or diesel car. You can find out more at the Australian Tax Office (ATO) Electric cars exemption webpage.
The ATOs Legal database has guidance and rulings on EV home charging rates and how to calculate electricity costs when charging a vehicle at an employees or individuals home.
Preparing Western Australia for EV uptake
State Electric Vehicle Strategy for Western Australia
The State EV Strategy emphasises the multiple benefits of EVs, including improving air quality in urban centres, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting local industry and delivering a range of benefits for consumers. The strategys actions are preparing Western Australia for the transition to low and zeroemission electric vehicles.
Electric Vehicle Action Plan
Transitioning to electric transport will play a key role in shaping Western Australias future electricity systems. The State Governments Electric Vehicle Action Plan: preparing Western Australias electricity systems for EVs outlines 26 priority actions to integrate EVs within Western Australias power systems. The Action Plan is administered by Energy Policy WA in the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.
