How far can an EV tow a caravan on one charge?

The range of a fully-charged EV while towing a caravan varies depending on the model, battery size, and the weight of the caravan. As a general rule, towing can reduce an EV’s range by 30-50%.

Does towing impact an EV’s battery life?

Towing increases the energy demand on an EV, leading to faster battery depletion per charge. However, it does not significantly impact long-term battery health of the EV, as long as you use it within its recommended towing limits. Regular charging and good battery maintenance can help extend battery longevity.

How do I find my EV’s towing capacity?

Your EV’s towing capacity can be found in the owner’s manual, on the manufacturer’s website, or on the vehicle’s VIN plate. If a vehicle is not rated for towing, it will not have a stated towing capacity, and attempting to tow could damage the car’s drivetrain or even void the warranty.

Can plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) tow?

Yes, many plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are designed for towing and often have a towing capacity similar to traditional petrol or diesel cars.

Are there legal requirements for towing with an EV?

In the UK, the same towing laws that apply to ICE vehicles apply to EVs. These include having a properly fitted tow bar that meets UK safety standards, ensuring the caravan or trailer doesn’t exceed the car’s towing capacity, and following speed limits (60 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 50 mph on single carriageways).

What accessories do I need for towing with an EV?

To safely tow with an EV, you’ll need: A compatible tow bar that meets UK safety regulations A trailer or caravan with electric brakes if required A charging plan to accommodate reduced range while towing Mirrors or camera extensions if towing a large caravan A weight distribution hitch for improved stability (if applicable) Always check with your EV manufacturer to ensure you have the right equipment for safe towing.

How different is driving an electric car from a petrol or diesel car?

Driving an electric vehicle (EV) feels quite similar to an automatic petrol or diesel car, as there’s no need for gear changes. However, EVs offer instant torque, meaning they accelerate more quickly and smoothly than you may be used to. One key difference is range management - you’ll need to plan charging stops instead of refuelling at petrol stations.

What should I know before driving an EV on a motorway?

Motorway driving in an EV is straightforward, but you should be aware that high speeds reduce battery range more quickly than city driving. Eco-driving techniques like maintaining a steady speed and using cruise control can maximise charge efficiency, and you should always plan longer journeys to include charging stops.

How do I plan a long journey in an electric car?

Planning a long trip in an EV requires a bit more preparation than with a petrol or diesel car. Key steps include: Map out charging points along your route using apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare. Check your car’s real-world range and allow for extra charge stops if needed. Factoring in charging time, a rapid charger can top up your battery in around 30-45 minutes, but standard chargers will take longer.

Can I take my electric car abroad?

Yes, you can take your EV abroad via the Eurotunnel or ferries. Most European countries have a well-developed charging network, especially in France, Germany, and the Netherlands. However, it’s important to check: Charging connector compatibility: Most UK EVs use Type 2 chargers, but you may need an adapter for some rapid chargers. Payment methods: Not all charging networks accept UK bank cards, so doing your own research and downloading local charging apps may be necessary.

Can I tow a trailer or caravan with an EV?

Some EVs are capable of towing, but not all models are rated for it. Towing increases energy consumption, reducing range, so plan for more frequent charging stops. Lightweight, aerodynamic trailers designed for EVs can help improve efficiency. If you plan to tow, check your car’s towing capacity and whether it has a tow bar option.

Are EVs allowed in low-emission zones?

Yes! Fully electric vehicles are exempt from charges in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in cities like Birmingham and Bristol, though this may not always be the case for PHEVs and other partially electric cars. You can check your car’s compliance on the Transport for London (TfL) website or local council sites for other cities.