So you‘re interested in an electric vehicle, but also need to haul boats, trailers or even small RVs? I‘ve got good news! Today‘s top electric trucks, SUVs and even cars can handle impressive towing duties while still delivering emission-free transportation.
In this towing guide, we‘ll explore the 10 best electric vehicles equipped for towing heavy loads. You‘ll find key specs like max tow ratings, impacts on driving range, available hitches and assist features. Let‘s hit the road and see how modern EVs stack up for towing!
Overview of Electric Vehicle Towing Capabilities
Before diving into the top 10 models, let‘s briefly summarize what to expect around EV towing capability today:
- Towing Capacity – Current max tow ratings span from 2,000 to over 11,000 pounds depending on the EV truck or SUV model.
- Range Impacts – Expect a 50% or more reduction in total range when towing heavy loads near max capacity.
- Charging Considerations – Towing demands more frequent DC fast charging stops every 100-150 miles typically.
- Performance Matters – Heavier towing requires strong torque and horsepower levels only dual-motor AWD configs can offer.
- Driver Aids Help – Look for towing packages that add cameras, sensors and active assistance.
- Pricing Varies – Budget models start under $50k, but max towing capability demands $70k+.
Now that we‘ve set the stage, let‘s dive into the top electric models ready to pull weight!
1. Rivian R1T – Best Electric Truck for Max Towing
Without question, the upcoming Rivian R1T all-electric pickup boasts the highest tow rating available from any EV automaker. Properly equipped R1T models can tow a staggering 11,000 pounds – rivaling many diesel-powered trucks.
So how did Rivian engineer such incredible towing capability into their first pickup offering? A quad-motor AWD system delivers up to 750 hp and 829 lb-ft torque to all four wheels. This brute power combined with an advanced air suspension provides stability under heavy loads.
Rivian also offers accessories like a slide-in camp kitchen for the R1T gear tunnel that you could utilize while stopped towing long distances. When you need to recharge, Rivian‘s Adventure Network will include DC fast charging sites placed every 100-200 miles along major highways.
|Rivian R1T Towing Specs||
|-|-|
| Max Towing Capacity | 11,000 lbs |
| Max Range | 314 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 200 miles |
| Max Power | 750 hp |
| Max Torque | 829 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Installed |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | TBD |
If you need to tow serious weight like a good sized RV or skid steer, the Rivian R1T should be at the top of your list with tow ratings that exceed any electric (or gas) pickup today.
2. Ford F-150 Lightning – Legendary Ford Truck Ability Now Electric
The Ford F-150 Lightning sent shockwaves (pun intended) through the truck world by electrifying America‘s best selling vehicle for decades. For customers wanting to retain the capability they expect from an F-150 but with zero emissions, it‘s a compelling option.
Properly equipped, the F-150 Lightning can tow an impressive 10,000 pounds according to Ford. To generate the required power for big towing jobs, the Lightning utilizes dual inboard electric motors producing up to 580 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque.
An available Max Trailer Tow Package adds mechanical upgrades like an advanced cooling system, upgraded rear-axle design, integrated hitch receiver and onboard scales. You can monitor remaining range, adjust trailer profiles and check charging status from the 15.5” touchscreen.
| Ford F-150 Lightning Towing | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 10,000 lbs |
| Max Range | 320 miles | |
| Estimated Towing Range | 160 miles |
| Max Power | 580 hp |
| Max Torque | 775 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Installed |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Standard |
If you‘re loyal to the F-150 lineage but want to move into an electric future, the Lightning delivers that perfect combination of familiar capability with an eco-friendly upgrade.
3. Rivian R1S – Electric SUV Matching the R1T‘s Tow Rating
Sharing much of the same underlying technology as its pickup platform mate, the Rivian R1S electric SUV can also tow an immense 11,000 pounds like the R1T.
With room for 7 passengers, the R1S adds practicality over the R1T for larger families who need serious towing muscle. The interior remains spacious thanks to Rivian‘s clever battery pack layout below the floorboards.
You‘ll enjoy the same quad-motor AWD power, customized driving modes and air suspension found in the R1T. Rivian‘s Adventure Network fast charging sites will keep you powered up between destinations as well.
| Rivian R1S Towing Specs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 11,000 lbs | |
| Max Range | 316 miles | |
| Estimated Towing Range | 150 miles | |
| Max Power | 750 hp | |
| Max Torque | 829 lb-ft | |
| Available Hitches | Factory Installed | |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | TBD |
If your heavy towing needs demand an SUV form factor, the R1S matches its pickup sibling across all meaningful specs for capacity.
4. Tesla Model X – 5,000+ lbs Towing in Luxury
When it arrived back in 2015, the Tesla Model X shook up the luxury SUV segment as one of the first high-end electric models. The Model X can tow an impressive 5,000 lbs when properly configured.
Power comes from Tesla‘s dual motor AWD powertrain producing up to 1,020 hp in current models. Torque sits at an ample 1,200 lb-ft. The low center of gravity afforded by the battery pack placement gives the Model X a stable towing platform.
Autopilot and other advanced driving aids reduce fatigue over long hauls towing. The huge 17” central display provides entertainment and lets you monitor range. Tesla‘s vast Supercharger network also helps enable longer trips while towing.
| Tesla Model X Towing Specs | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | |
| Max Range | 348 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 175 miles |
| Max Power | 1,020 hp |
| Max Torque | 1,200 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Aftermarket | |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Standard |
The Model X delivers towing abilities comparable with luxury SUV rivals but in an eco-friendly package loaded with the latest tech.
5. Volkswagen ID.4 – Budget Friendly Towing
Not everyone needs to tow massive 10,000+ loads. For more modest trailer towing needs on a budget, the Volkswagen ID.4 is a great crossover SUV choice.
The rear-wheel drive ID.4 can tow 2,200 pounds according to VW. Opting for the available AWD dual motor version bumps max towing to a respectable 2,700 pounds.
201 horsepower motivates the entry RWD model. The AWD options steps up to 295 horses and more torque. While not lightning quick, performance is smooth and consistent for confident towing.
An 82 kWh battery yields around 250 miles of range without a trailer. Expect this to decrease by 50% when towing. The ID.4 starts at just $37,495 before incentives, providing an affordable EV package.
| Volkswagen ID.4 Towing | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs |
| Max Range | 250 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 125 miles | |
| Max Power | 295 hp |
| Max Torque | 339 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Accessory |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Available |
The ID.4 manages light-duty towing needs at a reasonable price point backed by VW‘s solid reputation.
6. Hyundai IONIQ 5 – Streamlined Towing
The sleek, futuristic IONIQ 5 crossover from Hyundai can tow up to 3,500 pounds in certain configurations making it surprisingly capable.
Its smooth slopes and rounded shapes help optimize aerodynamics for efficiency while towing. Dual electric motors in AWD versions churn out 320 combined horsepower with an ample 446 lb-ft of torque.
Inside, sustainable materials show Hyundai‘s eco-commitment. The minimalist interior provides a relaxing space for long hauls. Dual 12” displays keep you informed and entertained on the road.
Fast 800-volt charging promises to add 210 miles in just 18 minutes when you need to repower quickly. At a starting price around $42,000, the IONIQ 5 brings a lot to the table.
| Hyundai IONIQ 5 Towing | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Max Range | 256 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 130 miles | |
| Max Power | 320 hp |
| Max Torque | 446 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Accessory | |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Available |
The forward-looking IONIQ 5 design encloses some unexpected towing competence at an attractive starting price.
7. Mercedes EQB – Luxury Meets Towing
German luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz readies the all-electric EQB SUV for US release in 2024. European specs point to a max tow rating around 4,000 pounds when equipped properly.
Power should come from dual motors generating about 288 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque fed through Mercedes‘ 4Matic AWD system. A 66.5 kWh battery feeds juice to the motors while providing around 250 miles of estimated range.
Mercedes also offers a robust driving assistance package including automated steering out of tight spots that will prove handy when towing. Inside, the EQB brings trademark Mercedes luxury fit and finish for a pampered driving experience.
| Mercedes EQB Towing | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs |
| Max Range | 250 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 125 miles |
| Max Power | 288 hp |
| Max Torque | 384 lb-ft* | |
| Available Hitches | Factory Installed |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Available |
*Estimated US specs based on global models
The EQB brings Mercedes prestige into a capable electric SUV ready for small to mid-sized towing needs.
8. Kia EV6 – Performance and Practicality
The athletic profile of the new Kia EV6 encloses an electric crossover SUV ready to tow when called upon. Properly equipped EV6 models can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Dual motor AWD versions produce 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque from a spacious 77.4 kWh battery pack. The motors provide smooth, steady power ideal for maintaining control when towing in varied conditions. Inside, multiple displays and contemporary styling bring together functionality with flair.
An 800-volt architecture means hyper-fast charging to minimize downtime between destinations. For under $50,000 to start, the EV6 brings performance, tech and long-range towing ability at an appealing price point.
| Kia EV6 Towing Specs | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Max Range | 310 miles |
| Estimated Towing Range | 155 miles | |
| Max Power | 320 hp |
| Max Torque | 446 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Accessory |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Available |
The EV6 provides a compelling combination of performance, practicality and towing competence.
9. BMW iX – Luxury Meets All-Electric Towing
The BMW iX brings together high-end luxury and innovation with capable towing. When properly equipped, the iX can tow up to 5,500 pounds.
Dual electric motors generate up to 516 hp and 564 lb-ft of torque fed through BMW‘s latest xDrive AWD system. Sophisticated sensors allow the iX to monitor trailer direction and speed, automatically applying stabilizing inputs when needed. Surround view cameras take the stress out of tight situations.
Inside, minimalist styling focused on natural materials provides a serene space. Along with 12.3” infotainment displays, an augmented reality head-up display keeps your eyes forward. Super fast charging enables quicker turnarounds between charging stops.
Starting around $83,000, the iX commands a premium but delivers sophisticated luxury and towing competence.
| BMW iX Towing Specs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 5,500 lbs | |
| Max Range | 324 miles | |
| Estimated Towing Range | 160 miles | |
| Max Power | 516 hp | |
| Max Torque | 564 lb-ft | |
| Available Hitches | Factory Installed | |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Standard |
With Bavarian styling and quality paired with electric innovation, the iX brings BMW luxury to the EV towing segment.
10. Audi e-tron SUV – Premium Towing
The savvy Audi e-tron SUV rounds out our list with its refined style encasing a contemporary EV powertrain. Hitched up properly, the e-tron can confidently tow loads up to 4,000 pounds.
AWD comes standard via Audi‘s capable quattro system. It routes power from dual electric motors that deliver 355 hp and 414 lb-ft torque to pave a steady towing experience.
Audi‘s digital cockpit system utilizes virtual displays to create a futuristic yet intuitive driving environment. The touchscreen MMI navigation plus interface is a model of functionality. Optional aids like 360-degree cameras simplify maneuvering and hookups.
Figure around $74,000 to start for a well-equipped model before available federal and state EV incentives. For buyers wanting Audi prestige with electric towing competence, the e-tron warrants a look.
| Audi e-tron Towing | |
|---|---|
| Max Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs |
| Max Range | 222 miles | |
| Estimated Towing Range | 110 miles |
| Max Power | 355 hp |
| Max Torque | 414 lb-ft |
| Available Hitches | Factory Accessory |
| Driver Assistance Towing Package | Available |
Sleek, modern style houses proven Audi luxury and technology for satisfying electric towing.
Key Takeaways on Electric Vehicle Towing
- Current EVs like the Rivian R1T or Ford Lightning can tow over 10,000 pounds putting them in the light duty truck class.
- Max tow rating directly reduces driving range. Plan charging stops carefully when towing near capacity.
- Dual motor AWD models have the torque and control for confident heavy towing.
- Advanced driver aids and cameras available on EVs simplify towing‘s unique challenges.
- While EVs carry a price premium up front, lower operating costs help offset over time.
- The future looks bright with towing-capable EVs rapidly matching or exceeding gas-powered trucks.
So don‘t let outdated notions of EVs being less capable dissuade you. As this guide outlines, today‘s best electric vehicles deliver serious towing muscle perfect for work or play while driving into a sustainable future.