Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming an increasingly common sight on UK roads, but many drivers still have one important question:
Can you fit a towbar to an electric or hybrid car?
The short answer is yes – but not every vehicle is designed for towing. Some electric and hybrid models are approved to tow caravans, trailers and bike racks, while others have no towing capacity at all.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything UK drivers need to know about fitting a towbar to an EV or hybrid, including towing limits, electrical requirements, warranties and the latest considerations for 2026.
Can You Fit a Towbar to an Electric Car?
Yes, many electric vehicles can be fitted with a towbar.
However, whether you can legally tow depends on the manufacturer’s approved towing capacity. If the vehicle has no official towing limit, it should not be used for towing a trailer or caravan.
Fortunately, an increasing number of EVs are designed with towing in mind.
Examples include:
- Tesla Model Y
- Kia EV9
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Audi Q6 e-tron
- BMW iX
- Volvo EX90
- Polestar 2
Modern electric SUVs are particularly capable tow vehicles thanks to their instant torque and low centre of gravity, making them stable and confident when pulling heavier loads.
Can Hybrid Cars Have a Towbar?
Absolutely.
Both self-charging hybrids and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can often be fitted with a towbar.
Popular models frequently fitted with towbars include:
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
- Kia Sportage Hybrid
- Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
- Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid
- Volvo XC60 Recharge
- Skoda Kodiaq iV
As with any vehicle, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s maximum towing capacity before choosing a towbar or trailer.
Not Every Electric Vehicle Can Tow
This is one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles.
Some EVs are excellent tow cars, while others aren’t approved for towing at all.
Reasons include:
- Battery cooling limitations
- Vehicle weight restrictions
- Chassis design
- Manufacturer certification
Even if a towbar physically fits the vehicle, you should never tow if the manufacturer hasn’t approved a towing capacity.
Can I Fit a Towbar Just for a Bike Rack?
Yes.
Many customers choose a towbar solely for carrying bicycles rather than towing a trailer.
A towbar-mounted bike rack offers several advantages over roof-mounted systems:
- Easier loading
- Better fuel efficiency than roof racks
- Suitable for electric bikes
- Less wind resistance
- Improved stability
However, some vehicles that cannot tow trailers may also have restrictions on towbar-mounted accessories. Always check the manufacturer’s guidance before fitting a towbar purely for bike transport.
Do Electric Cars Need a Special Towbar?
Not necessarily.
Towbars for electric and hybrid vehicles are designed specifically for each make and model, just like petrol and diesel vehicles.
The most common options are:
Fixed Towbars
Always available for use and ideal for regular towing.
Best for:
- Frequent caravan towing
- Commercial use
- Trailer owners
Detachable Towbars
The towball can be removed when not in use, helping to preserve the vehicle’s appearance.
Ideal for:
- Occasional towing
- Family vehicles
- Maintaining a clean rear profile
Swan Neck Towbars
Popular on modern vehicles thanks to their discreet appearance and compatibility with many accessories.
What Electrical System Does an EV Towbar Need?
Modern electric and hybrid vehicles rely on sophisticated electronic systems, making the wiring kit just as important as the towbar itself.
Professional installers typically recommend a dedicated vehicle-specific wiring kit, which integrates with the car’s electronics.
Benefits include:
- Correct communication with vehicle safety systems
- Trailer stability programme activation (where fitted)
- Parking sensor deactivation when towing
- Trailer lighting monitoring
- Reduced risk of electrical faults
Many newer vehicles also require software coding after installation so the vehicle recognises the towbar correctly.
Will Towing Reduce My Electric Vehicle’s Range?
Yes.
Towing creates additional weight and aerodynamic drag, which increases energy consumption.
The exact reduction depends on:
- Trailer weight
- Speed
- Terrain
- Weather conditions
- Driving style
Drivers towing caravans may notice a significant reduction in driving range compared with normal solo driving.
Fortunately, most EV navigation systems automatically help plan charging stops, making longer journeys much easier than in previous years.
Is It Safe to Tow with an Electric Vehicle?
When used within the manufacturer’s limits, electric vehicles can make excellent tow cars.
Advantages include:
- Instant torque for smooth pulling away
- Low centre of gravity
- Excellent traction
- Stable handling
- Regenerative braking assistance
As with any towing vehicle, always remain within:
- Maximum towing capacity
- Nose weight limits
- Gross train weight
- Tyre pressure recommendations
Will Fitting a Towbar Affect My Vehicle Warranty?
A professionally fitted, type-approved towbar should not automatically invalidate your vehicle warranty.
However, installation should always:
- Use quality vehicle-specific components
- Be carried out by experienced installers
- Follow manufacturer guidance
- Include the correct dedicated electrics where required
Incorrect installation or poor-quality wiring can lead to electrical issues that may not be covered under warranty.
Choosing an experienced installer helps ensure the towbar functions exactly as intended.
What Can You Tow with an Electric or Hybrid Vehicle?
Depending on the vehicle’s approved towing capacity, you may be able to tow:
- Caravans
- Small camping trailers
- Box trailers
- Horse trailers
- Boat trailers
- Utility trailers
- Motorcycle trailers
Always ensure the total trailer weight remains within the manufacturer’s approved limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Tesla have a towbar?
Yes. Several Tesla models, including the Model Y, are approved for towing when fitted with the correct towbar and electrics.
Can I tow a caravan with an electric car?
Many modern EVs are perfectly capable of towing caravans, provided the caravan’s fully loaded weight is within the vehicle’s towing limit.
Can I fit a towbar to a lease vehicle?
In many cases, yes. However, you should always check your lease agreement and obtain permission if required before installation.
Do I need 7-pin or 13-pin electrics?
A 13-pin electrical system is now the most common choice for modern caravans and many trailers, as it supports additional functions such as reversing lights and power supplies. A 7-pin connection is still suitable for many standard trailers.
Is professional installation important?
Absolutely. Modern electric and hybrid vehicles contain complex electrical systems, making professional installation the safest and most reliable option.
Final Thoughts
Electric and hybrid vehicles have transformed the towing landscape, and many of today’s models are more than capable of handling trailers, caravans and bike racks.
The key is ensuring your vehicle is approved for towing, choosing the correct towbar and electrical system, and having everything installed professionally.
At Ultimate Towbars, we supply and fit high-quality, vehicle-specific towbars for a wide range of electric, hybrid, petrol and diesel vehicles. Whether you need a towbar for towing, carrying bikes or both, our experienced team can help you choose the right solution for your vehicle.
If you’re unsure whether your EV or hybrid can have a towbar fitted, get in touch with our team for expert advice and a no-obligation quotation.
Team Ultimate
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance only and was accurate at the time of publication. Vehicle specifications, towing capacities, manufacturer recommendations and UK regulations may change over time.
Not all electric or hybrid vehicles are approved for towing. Before fitting a towbar or towing a trailer, caravan or bike carrier, always consult your vehicle owner’s handbook and verify the manufacturer’s approved towing capacity, nose weight limits and any other applicable restrictions.
Towbars should be supplied and installed by a qualified professional using vehicle-specific components and wiring where required. Incorrect installation may affect the safe operation of your vehicle and could impact your warranty or insurance cover.
Ultimate Towbars accepts no liability for any loss, damage or injury arising from reliance on the information contained in this article. If you are unsure whether your vehicle is suitable for towing or requires specialist equipment, please seek professional advice before proceeding.
