Electric vehicles are gaining popularity, and with them, the demand for practical transport solutions is rising. But what about trailers for electric cars? Can EVs even tow? And what special considerations are there? In this article, we delve into the world of trailers for electric vehicles and cover everything you need to know.
Electric car with trailer at a charging station
Many drivers wonder if electric cars are powerful enough to tow a trailer. The answer is a resounding yes! Modern electric vehicles have considerable towing capacity and, depending on the model and equipment, can certainly keep up with their combustion engine counterparts. For example, the ID3 77 kWh with a tow hitch offers a towing capacity of up to 1,200 kg.
Important Factors When Towing with an Electric Vehicle
However, there are some important points to consider when towing a trailer with an electric car that differ from vehicles with combustion engines.
Range and Battery Capacity
A crucial aspect is range. Towing a trailer increases air resistance and thus the vehicle’s energy consumption, which leads to a reduced range. “You can imagine it like cycling against the wind,” explains Dr. Markus Schmidt, electric mobility expert at the Technical University of Munich. “The additional effort reduces the available energy.” Therefore, when traveling with a trailer, plan for longer charging times and find out about available charging stations along your route in advance.
Electric car towing a trailer with range indicator
Tongue Weight and Towing Capacity
Before you tow, find out the permissible tongue weight and towing capacity of your electric car. This information can usually be found in the vehicle registration document. Exceeding these values can lead to dangerous driving situations and damage the vehicle.
Driving Behavior
The driving behavior of an electric car with a trailer can change compared to driving without a trailer. Due to the higher center of gravity and the changed weight distribution, EVs with trailers tend to sway more. Adjust your driving style accordingly and avoid abrupt steering and braking maneuvers.
Advantages of Trailers for Electric Vehicles
Despite the points mentioned, trailers for electric cars also offer several advantages. They enable the transport of bulky items that do not fit in the trunk, such as bicycles, garden furniture, or building materials. In addition, trailers offer a flexible and cost-effective alternative to vans or rental cars.
Trailers for Special Requirements
There is now a wide variety of trailers specifically tailored to the needs of electric car owners. For example, there are special bicycle trailers for e-bikes or caravans with integrated solar modules that can further increase the range of the electric car.
Foldable trailer for an electric car
Conclusion
Trailers for electric vehicles are a useful addition for anyone who wants to remain flexible and independent with their EV. Consider the specifics of towing with electric cars and find out about the technical data of your vehicle in advance. This way, nothing stands in the way of a safe and comfortable journey with a trailer!
Frequently Asked Questions About Trailers for Electric Vehicles
- Which tow hitch is right for my electric car?
- How does a trailer affect the power consumption of my EV?
- Are there special trailers for e-bikes?
- Where can I find charging stations for electric cars with trailers?
You can find more information on tow hitches for electric vehicles in our articles on the ID3 All-Wheel Drive and the E Up Tow Hitch. Do you need help choosing the right trailer or tow hitch? Contact our experts – we are happy to advise you!
