Tesla Model Y Towing Capacity
The Tesla Model Y is rated to tow 3,500 lbs. maximum, but the more you tow, the more range you might lose.
Written by Cameron Thiessen
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The maximum towing capacity of a Tesla Model Y is 3,500 pounds, but towing will greatly decrease the range of the EV engine.
If you want an electric luxury SUV that can hold a ton of outdoor gear and still pull the family camper, you’re going to need something with a decent towing capacity. Tesla’s sleek Model Y might just be the pick for you. That being said, a number of different things are important to consider when thinking about towing with any particular vehicle, such as the strength of its engine and its size.
If you’ve got questions flying hot off the press about towing with a Tesla Model Y, we've got you covered.
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How much can a Tesla Model Y tow?
Base towing capacity: N/A
Maximum towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
Engines: Long Range (447 hp, 330 mi range), Performance (580 hp, 303 mi range)
The Tesla Model Y is no doubt one of the most futuristic-looking SUVs we’ve ever seen, and it’s one of the few Tesla models that is approved for towing.
Either engine can tow about the same maximum capacity, but because you will already be losing range when you tow with a Model Y, you might be best off going for the Long Range engine. If you’re not going as far, and you’re pulling something on the heavier side, the extra horsepower of the Performance engine may be what you’re looking for.
The Model Y automatically enables Trailer Mode when you connect its electrical connector.
Trailer hitches for the Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is available with a tow package that includes one high-strength steel tow bar with a 2-inch hitch receiver and a standard 7-pin connector. It also comes with a trailer harness and a tow mode software package.
But if the Tesla Model Y’s standard hitch just doesn’t cut it, you can always try your hand at installing an aftermarket hitch.
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How to calculate the towing capacity you need
Okay, so you’ve got up to 3,500 lbs. of towing capacity available to use with your Tesla Model Y. Now you’ve got to make sure you know what sorts of things are going to fit in that range and what sorts of equipment are going to exceed it.
Be smart. The largest load you plan to pull should always be lighter than your maximum towing capacity.
You’ll likely be able to pull your dirt bike trailer or even a smaller sized camper or boat trailer with your Model Y, but always make sure to weigh your load so that you know that you aren’t pulling more than your Tesla can take.
It’s important to be aware of this every time you tow because each trip is going to have a slightly different weight. Here’s a list of a few things you’ll be able to pull with your Model Y:
- Canoe or kayak trailer (600 to 800 lbs.)
- Motorcycle trailer (800 to 3,000 lbs.)
- Pop-up camper (2,800 to 3,500 lbs.)
- Boat trailer (up to 3,500 lbs.)
An EV with a towing capacity of the Tesla Model Y’s is an exciting feat of recent technology, but every new and exciting thing will come with its share of setbacks in the beginning. While your car is in Trailer Mode, you’re going to really want to pay attention to your trip planner feature because you will certainly notice a significant decrease (as high as 50%!) in your battery’s charge if you’re pulling something on the heavier end of the payload capacity.
And again, remember to always check the total weight of your trailer and hitch when it’s fully loaded. You’re going to want to pay attention to the weight of your gear and passengers as well as the weight of your packed-up trailer.
How to increase towing capacity
If you’re hoping to bump up the towing capacity of your Tesla Model Y, here are some possible upgrades you could consider:
- Install a weight-distribution hitch to reduce sway and give the suspension a break
- Upgrade your brake pads and rotors to accommodate heavier loads
- Level up to stronger axles, such as RV axles
It’s critical to note, however, that certain changes and upgrades to your Tesla Model Y will likely actually end up decreasing its towing capacity. For example, if you were to swap out the Model Y’s 21-inch wheels for even larger aftermarket ones, you’d probably just end up increasing the amount of pressure being put on your engine, ultimately lowering your efficiency and payload capacity.
While no one is going to stop you from trying to increase your SUV’s towing capacity by upgrading, it’s most likely that small changes will not improve towing capacity all that much. If you’re looking for an electric vehicle capable of hauling even heavier loads, you’ll likely be looking for something like the Audi e-tron, with a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds.
How to find affordable car insurance
Now that you’re clear on your Tesla’s towing capacity, it’s time to ensure that you set yourself up with car insurance deserving of a luxurious Model Y. Not even Tesla owners should have to overpay on insurance. Luckily you won’t have to, with the car insurance comparison super app,
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FAQs
Is the Tesla Model Y good for towing?
The Tesla Model Y is a true EV SUV, and one of its major selling points above other Tesla models is its towing capacity. While you’re not going to be able to tow anything significantly weighty, your Model Y is great for towing outdoor sporting equipment on short day trips, or across highways where EV charging is easily accessible.
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Tesla Model Y?
Yes! Model Ys are available with a fantastic stander hitch pin/hitch receiver package.
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