EVs can’t tow – the infamous claim of former prime minister Scott Morrison and many in his Coalition party – is one of the biggest myths that’s commonly bought up in many conversations around electric cars.
Countless examples exist of EVs towing on short and long trips, and now Australia’s best selling electric SUV, the Tesla Model Y, is soon to offer a tow pack.
In the last week, hundreds of Tesla Model Y owners around Australia have received an email from Tesla confirming the availability of an upcoming tow kit for their electric SUV.
The email also advised any interested owners to make a booking at their service centre or by calling:
“We are pleased to advise that we have started to receive stock of the Model Y Tow Package. We are now accepting bookings for Service Centre installation, based on the date on which owners registered their interest”
The new tow package will be offered by a technician at the Tesla service centre and comes at a cost of $1,970.
The same item can also be found on Tesla’s website and is shown on a blue Model Y, although it is not available to everyone at this stage.
The description on the website for the Tesla Model Y tow package states that it’s capable of towing up to 1,600 kg:
“Equip your Model Y with a high-strength steel tow bar and 2” hitch receiver capable of towing up to 1,600kg.”
Details of what’s included in the package directly from Tesla will include:
- 1x high-strength steel tow bar with 2″ hitch receiver
- 1x trailer harness
- 1x tow mode software package
Tesla’s website also states that it’s coming soon to all Australian Tesla Model Y owners:
“This item is coming soon. We will send you an email when the item is available.”
The tow package can be used to tow small trailers, boats, jet skis, bikes and other items that come under the 1,600 kg limit.
Many Tesla and non-Tesla EV owners have been towing for years. With this genuine Tesla option soon available to over 8,000 Tesla Model Y electric SUVs in Australia, it’s only a matter of time before many more owners will be showcasing that EVs can tow.
Video of Tesla Model Y Tow hitch:
Riz is the founder of carloop based in Melbourne, specialising in Australian EV data, insight reports and trends. He is a mechanical engineer who spent the first 7 years of his career building transport infrastructure before starting carloop. He has a passion for cars, particularly EVs and wants to help reduce transport emissions in Australia. He currently drives a red Tesla Model 3.