What is the highest towing capacity of an electric vehicle?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just about efficiency and sustainability; they are also proving their capability in areas like towing. With advancements in EV technology, manufacturers are now producing electric trucks and SUVs that rival traditional gas-powered vehicles in towing capacity. In this article, we’ll explore the highest towing capacity currently available in an electric vehicle and what makes these EVs so powerful.
Understanding Towing Capacity in Electric Vehicles
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. For electric vehicles, this capability depends on factors such as motor power, battery size, and chassis design. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs benefit from instant torque, which makes them particularly well-suited for towing heavy loads.
The Current Leader in EV Towing Capacity
As of 2025, the electric vehicle with the highest towing capacity is the Rivian R1T, a fully electric pickup truck. The Rivian R1T boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds, making it a top choice for those who need serious towing power without sacrificing the benefits of an electric drivetrain.
Other High-Towing Electric Vehicles
While the Rivian R1T leads the pack, several other electric vehicles also offer substantial towing capacities. Here are some notable mentions:
- Ford F-150 Lightning: This electric version of the iconic F-150 can tow up to 10,000 pounds when equipped with the extended-range battery.
- Tesla Cybertruck: Tesla’s futuristic truck is expected to tow up to 14,000 pounds in its tri-motor configuration, though production models are still rolling out.
- Chevrolet Silverado EV: The Silverado EV is designed to tow up to 10,000 pounds, with plans for future models to exceed this limit.
These vehicles demonstrate that EVs are not just eco-friendly but also highly capable when it comes to heavy-duty tasks like towing.
Why Choose an EV for Towing?
Electric vehicles offer several advantages for towing compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles:
- Instant Torque: Electric motors provide immediate power, making it easier to tow heavy loads from a standstill.
- Lower Operating Costs: EVs generally have lower maintenance and fuel costs, even when towing.
- Environmental Benefits: Towing with an EV reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to using a gas-powered vehicle.
- Advanced Technology: Many EVs come equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems that make towing safer and more convenient.
These benefits make EVs an attractive option for individuals and businesses looking to combine towing capability with sustainability.
Conclusion
The Rivian R1T currently holds the title for the highest towing capacity among electric vehicles, with a remarkable 11,000-pound limit. However, the competition is fierce, with models like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck pushing the boundaries of what EVs can achieve. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even greater towing capacities and innovations in the electric vehicle market. Whether you’re towing a trailer, a boat, or heavy equipment, EVs are proving they can handle the job with power and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can an electric car tow?
Most electric vehicles that are suitable for towing can tow somewhere between 1500kg and 2500kg. This is a huge range and it means that while some cars can tow a caravan, they can't tow all caravan types. Again, if you need to tow a specific caravan or trailer you should carefully check what your chosen car can handle.
What electric truck can tow 20000 pounds?
The Silverado EV WT trim starts at $39,900 (+$1,695 DFC) with optional features, including up to 20,000 lb. towing capacity. The Work Truck edition will be the first to debut in spring 2023 and will ride on GM's Ultium platform.
Is anyone making a heavy duty electric truck?
The technology for heavy-duty electric trucks is advancing, with companies like Tesla and Nikola focusing on creating vehicles capable of handling significant loads over long distances.
Which PHEV has 3500 towing capacity?
The 2025 CX-90 PHEV can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Is the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV all-wheel drive? Yes, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV comes standard with Mazda's i-ACTIV AWD® system.
What is the max towing capacity of a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV?
1,500 pounds
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a versatile performer that doesn't skimp on power. Both its front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models offer a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Is there a hybrid that can tow 5000 lbs?
An example: Toyota Highlander Hybrid towing capacity
If you opt for the all-wheel drive model, you'll have 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft torque at your fingertips. The Toyota Highlander towing capacity is 5,000 lns. The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine under the hood.
What EV can tow 6000 lbs?
The Best 2025 EVs That Can Tow
- Audi Q6 e-tron EV (4,400 Lbs.)
- Volvo EX90 EV (4,850 Lbs.)
- Volvo XC90 PHEV (5,000 Lbs.)
- Tesla Model X (5,000 Lbs.)
- BMW X5 XDrive 50e PHEV (5,290 Lbs.)
- BMW XM PHEV (5,925 Lbs.)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe PHEV (6,000 Lbs.)
- Range Rover, Range Rover Sport PHEV (6,600 Lbs.)
Which EV has 5000 lb towing capacity?
Tesla Model X (5,000 Lbs.)
Both can accept charging at 250 kWh on one of the brand's Supercharger network stations. Either version of the Model X can tow up to 5,000 pounds, giving you plenty of capability to go with that range and speed.
Is there an electric vehicle that can tow a trailer?
Many EV models, like the Rivian R1T, Tesla CyberTruck, GMC Hummer EV and Ford F-150 Lightning, are equipped with significant towing capacities boasting up to 11,000 pounds. These vehicles tow ratings demonstrate that EVs can tow not only small utility trailers but also larger travel trailers.
Why can't you tow with an EV?
The extra weight that the electric vehicle would be towing would substantially increase the overall weight that the electric motors need to propel forward. Electric vehicles are already substantially heavier than cars that use a combustion engine for propulsion, and towing would add to this issue.
