Best Electric Vehicles for Towing & Payload Capacity

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How to Use This EV Towing & Payload Guide

Understanding EV towing capacity is crucial when choosing an electric vehicle for work or travel. While some electric trucks offer over 10,000 lbs of towing capacity, others have more limited capabilities. EV towing range can also decrease significantly based on payload and terrain.

Key factors to consider when choosing an EV for towing:

• Max towing capacity (lbs/kgs)
• Payload capacity (how much cargo you can carry)
• EV efficiency while towing (range reduction)
• Electric SUVs vs. trucks – which is best for towing?

Understanding EV Towing Capacities

Electric vehicle (EV) towing capacity varies based on several factors, including battery power, drivetrain type, and vehicle design. Always check the manufacturer’s towing guidelines before attaching a trailer to an EV or plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

Factors Affecting EV Towing Capacity

• Battery & Motor Power: Higher-capacity batteries and dual motors generally offer better towing performance.
• Drivetrain: AWD (All-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) systems improve traction and stability when towing heavy loads.
• Regenerative Braking: Some EVs use regenerative braking to recover energy while towing, improving efficiency.

Impact of Towing on EV Range

Towing a trailer significantly reduces an EV’s range, often by 30% to 50% depending on factors such as weight, aerodynamics, and terrain.

• Trailer Weight: The heavier the trailer, the greater the impact on range.
• Aerodynamics: Poorly designed trailers create higher drag, increasing energy consumption.
• Driving Conditions: Factors like cold weather, highway speeds, and elevation changes further reduce range.

Example: Tests have shown that towing a full-size camper trailer can cut an EV’s range by up to 50%. Always plan charging stops accordingly when towing long distances.

Towing Capacity (Trailer Towing Ratings)

The towing capacity values displayed in the table are official manufacturer-published ratings.

• "N/A": No official towing data is available from the manufacturer.
• "Not recommended": The manufacturer advises against towing with this model.
• Always consult the owner’s manual and official towing guide before using an EV for towing.

Cargo Volume (EV Storage Space & Payload Capacity)

EV cargo capacity varies by trim level and configuration.

• Behind rear seats: Storage available with all seats upright.
• Seats folded: Maximum cargo capacity when rear seats are down.
• Roof-mounted cargo boxes and trailers affect efficiency due to increased drag.

Electric Range (Real-World Driving Range for EVs)

An EV’s advertised range is an estimate and may vary based on conditions.

• In Canada: Range is based on Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) testing.
• In the United States: Range is based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) figures.
• Cold weather, high speeds, and heavy loads reduce real-world range.

Suggested Prices (EV MSRP & Cost Considerations)

EV prices are based on the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) at the time of data collection.

• Actual prices may vary due to dealership pricing, government incentives, and applicable taxes.
• Some EV models qualify for federal/state/provincial tax credits, reducing total cost.
• Always check with local dealerships or manufacturer websites for updated pricing and incentives.