17 June 2022
It’s becoming more apparent that we are entering a more futuristic way of thinking, with the influx of manufacturers leaning toward Electric Vehicles, and for a good reason.
Electric Vehicles have many benefits, including contributing toward a cleaner environment, lower running costs, Government funding, reduced noise pollution and even free parking.
Ultimately, we are making significant strides in the Automotive Industry to attempt to protect our planet and cut emissions by reducing fossil fuels.
There are a lot of questions and speculation about Electric vehicles and their suitability for Tow.
In theory, the immediate torque from a standstill makes the Electric Vehicles more suitable for Towing than petrol or diesel models; however, very few have been type-approved.
Before a vehicle is launched, it must pass through something called homologation.
Homologation is a process of tests that allows the relevant authorities to ensure that the vehicle meets all the requirements to be legally roadworthy.
The manufacturers of most Electric Vehicles haven’t sought type approval from the European authorities to declare them fit for towing.
This is because Electric Vehicles generally aren’t built for Towing purposes. Towing a caravan with an electric car would drastically decrease their efficiency and reduce their driving range. This happens because the battery uses a higher amount of power to physically pull the additional weight.
Where most Electric Vehicles are not homologated, a handful of vehicles have been granted a Towing weight and are capable of towing, in theory.
As a rule, the Towing Capacity of these vehicles tends to be very low, so whilst the car has the correct preparation to be able to tow, the reality is that the vehicle is only prepped to tow a Cycle Carrier and nothing more.
There are special Towbars for these vehicles that are only compatible with Cycle Carriers (and certain types of cycle carrier), allowing you to Tow your Carrier but preventing you from using the Towbar to tow something such as a trailer or caravan in order to protect your vehicle.
If you’re considering buying a Hybrid or an Electric Vehicle, we recommend you do your homework first. If you require the vehicle for Towing, then ensure you check the VIN plate to ensure that there is a Towing Weight present and that it is enough to Tow what is required.
Click here for more information on where the VIN plate is and how to read it.
