A number of electric vehicles are homologated for towing caravans and trailers weighing between 1,500kg and 2,500kg. Others cannot, due to the impact towing has on regenerative braking, electrical systems, and powertrains.
The general answer to 'can I tow a caravan with an EV?' is yes - but it depends on the model in question.
For those who enjoy caravanning holidays, switching from a petrol or diesel to an EV requires some research. Aside from the common 'range anxiety' issue, the caravanner must know if a would-be EV can actually tow their caravan.
Many early EVs were not suitable for towing. However, as the market has expanded, newer models have been developed that can manage the task.
Electric cars that can tow
Any EV you buy for caravanning must be approved for towing. In particular, braking systems must be able to handle the additional pressure on brakes and suspension from the caravan’s weight, otherwise wear and tear can occur. And of course, well-maintained braking systems are essential for the safety of the driver, their passengers, and other road users.
Thankfully, today, a number of EV models are able to tow a small or medium-sized caravan. See our list of suitable options below.
Regenerative braking issues
Some EVs (and hybrids) use regenerative braking technology, which recovers energy that would otherwise be lost during traditional friction braking, and feeds it back into the battery. This process helps extend EV range.
However, the additional weight of a caravan can produce too much kinetic energy, which could potentially overwhelm the electrical system and the powertrain.
This risk is heightened when braking while travelling downhill.
The same issue can arise when heavy trailers are being towed by EVs with regenerative braking active.
Disengaging "regen" braking
Many EV models allow their owners to disengage regenerative braking. However, the extra weight of the caravan or trailer can still put substantial strain on the braking system.
Advantages of electric car towing
Without any gears, EVs can maintain consistent power no matter the speed, which can make handling smoother and easier - even when towing a heavy weight.
Towing with an EV is also much quieter compared to towing with a petrol or diesel vehicle.
How much weight can electric cars pull?
The majority of towing capable EVs can tow between 1,500kg and 2,500kg.
Given this wide range, it's critical you check if an EV can safely tow the weight of your caravan.
Most EVs still lag behind internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in terms of towing capacity.
The very best ICE cars can tow up to 3,500kg.
Homologation
Manufacturers go through a process called 'homologation' when determining what a vehicle is capable of or approved to undertake. In this instance it refers to how much weight - if any - a vehicle is approved to tow.
In the case of EVs, the extra weight of a caravan can drastically reduce range.
Credit: Mike Mareen - stock.adobe.com
Electric cars that can tow
A number of EV models are homologated for towing caravans and trailers.
Here are five attractive options for those seeking the best electric car for towing.
BMW iX
The iX, particularly the range-topping xDrive50 variant, boasts an impressive 2,500kg towing limit.
This model harnesses twin-motor four-wheel-drive, as do the cheaper 321 bhp e40xDrive models (which possess the same towing capacity).
Tesla Model X
The Model X boasts a 2,268 kg towing capacity, comparable to many ICE vehicles. It can even handle a large twin-axle caravan, although this will dent the vehicle's impressive 360-mile range (claimed).
And with 800lb ft of instant torque, hauling a heavy load will ensure performance is minimally impacted.
Credit: kittyfly - stock.adobe.com
Genesis Electrified GV70
The EV version of the mid-size, Korean-built GV70 SUV can haul an impressive 1,800kg, a capability underpinned by 516lb ft of torque.
It's not the most thrilling EV drive, but its 77kWh battery can be charged to 80% in under 20 minutes, and it boasts a range of 283 miles.
Audi Q8 E-tron
While the Audi Q8 E-tron can tow a substantial 1,800kg, supported by all-round air suspension, its claimed range of 252 miles is reduced to around 100 when hauling a heavy load.
However, the 660-litre boot will be a tremendous help for those luggage-heavy caravanning trips.
Mercedes EQS SUV
The high-riding version of the EQS saloon features a 1,800kg towing limit, and is available in single motor rear-wheel-drive, or twin-motor 4Matic all-wheel-drive.
The double motor version boasts 590lb ft of torque - useful for towing in tricky settings, such as muddy fields.
