Electric vehicles are becoming a common sight on UK roads, but many drivers still ask the same question:
Can an electric car have a towbar fitted?
The simple answer is yes — many EVs can tow caravans, trailers, bike racks, and small utility trailers. However, fitting a towbar to an electric vehicle is very different from fitting one to a traditional petrol or diesel car.
Here’s everything UK drivers need to know before fitting a towbar to an EV in 2026.
Can All Electric Cars Tow?
No. Some EVs are approved for towing, while others are not.
Even if two cars look similar, their towing capabilities can vary depending on:
- Battery size
- Vehicle weight
- Cooling systems
- Chassis design
- Manufacturer approval
Always check:
- The vehicle handbook
- VIN plate towing limits
- Manufacturer towing capacity
If the towing limit shows as 0kg, the vehicle is not legally approved for towing.
Popular EVs That Can Tow
Many modern electric vehicles now support towing, including:
- Tesla Model Y
- Kia EV9
- Hyundai IONIQ 5
- Volvo EX30
- BMW iX
- Ford Explorer EV
- BYD models
- Skoda Enyaq
New towbar systems are constantly being released for the latest EV models.
Why EV Towbar Fitting Is Different
Modern electric vehicles use highly advanced electrical systems.
Unlike older vehicles, you cannot simply wire in a universal towing kit without risking issues such as:
- Dashboard warning lights
- Parking sensor faults
- Battery drain problems
- Stability control errors
- Warranty complications
That’s why vehicle-specific dedicated wiring kits are essential for most EV towbar installations.
Professional coding and software integration may also be required.
Dedicated Electrics and Vehicle Coding
Many modern EVs require:
- CAN bus compatible wiring
- Trailer stability programming
- Parking sensor deactivation
- Trailer lighting control modules
Without proper coding, some towing safety systems may not work correctly. This is frequently discussed by EV owners online when fitting aftermarket towbars.
Will Towing Reduce EV Range?
Yes — towing will reduce battery range.
How much depends on:
- Trailer weight
- Driving speed
- Weather conditions
- Terrain
- Aerodynamics
Drivers towing caravans with EVs often experience:
- 30–50% range reduction
- Increased charging stops
- Slower motorway efficiency
Planning charging locations before travelling is highly recommended.
Which Towbar Type Is Best for an EV?
The best option usually depends on how the vehicle is used.
Fixed Towbars
Ideal for:
- Frequent towing
- Commercial use
- Utility trailers
Detachable Towbars
Ideal for:
- Preserving vehicle appearance
- Avoiding parking sensor interference
- Occasional towing
Swan Neck Towbars
Popular on EVs because they:
- Look cleaner
- Work well with parking sensors
- Are compatible with many bike racks
Is Professional Towbar Fitting Important?
Absolutely.
Modern towbar fitting often involves:
- Removing bumpers
- Accessing battery protection areas
- Integrating with advanced electronics
- Software coding
- Precise torque settings
Incorrect installation can lead to expensive electrical faults or safety issues.
Final Thoughts
Electric vehicles are perfectly capable tow cars when fitted with the correct towbar and electrics.
The key is ensuring:
- The vehicle is legally approved for towing
- The towbar is type-approved
- Dedicated electrics are used
- Installation is completed professionally
As more EVs arrive on UK roads, specialist towbar fitting knowledge is becoming more important than ever.
If you need advice on EV towbar fitting, bike rack compatibility, or towing limits, contact Ultimate Towbars for expert guidance and professional installation throughout Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
