Switched out our foul-smelling diesel pickup truck for an electric vehicle and a travel trailer, embarking on a road trip
In the ever-evolving landscape of Australian transportation, the towing capacity of electric vehicles (EVs) is making significant strides. As of mid-2025, the LDV eT60 ute is the leading electric ute in the market, boasting a braked towing capacity of up to 1,000kg and a payload of around 1,000kg as well[1][4]. Although this falls short of leading internal combustion engine (ICE) utes like the Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux, which can tow up to 3,500kg[1][4], the market is rapidly evolving.
Manufacturers are introducing higher-capacity EV models, paving the way for larger batteries, improved off-road capability, and increased towing capacity[2]. While these vehicles are not yet widely available in Australia, it is anticipated that EV towing capabilities will soon match or exceed those of traditional diesel or petrol vehicles.
In the present day, the LDV eT60’s towing capacity is more than sufficient for small-to-medium trailers such as compact camper trailers or tourist trailers, lightweight utility trailers, and small boat trailers or watercraft like jet skis, provided they are within the towing limit[2]. EV owners have already embarked on long trips towing these kinds of loads, with anecdotal evidence of EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 towing custom-built tourist trailers over thousands of kilometers without issue[2].
As more capable EVs with greater towing capacity and longer range become available in Australia, towing of heavier trailers and larger "toys," such as bigger caravans, horse floats, and heavier boats, will become possible[2]. The future of EV towing in Australia is promising, with the potential to match and surpass the towing capabilities of traditional ICE vehicles.
Here's a snapshot of the current and future state of EV towing in Australia:
| Aspect | Current EV Towing Capacity in Australia | Typical Towed Items | |--------|-----------------------------------------|---------------------| | Towing Capacity | Up to 1,000kg (LDV eT60) currently | Small camper trailers, small boats, utility trailers, light recreational vehicles | | Future Outlook | Increasing with new models expected | Tow heavier caravans, larger boats, horse floats, etc. as capacity hits 3,500kg+ | | Real-World Use | Long trips towing light trailers already happening | Growing acceptance and use of EVs for towing leisure vehicles and equipment |
Older ages and health concerns have prompted a shift towards a new approach to holidaying, with many opting for more adventurous, yet comfortable, options such as glamping[3]. The convenience and cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles are making them an attractive choice for weekend warriors looking to tow various types of toys such as boats, jet skis, kayak trailers, trailbikes, and horse floats[3].
The infrastructure for EV charging in Australia is improving, with Tasmania's charging network heavily represented by Chargefox[3]. The excellent charging infrastructure, coupled with the availability of lightweight compact camper trailers, makes Tasmania an ideal destination for electric vehicle towing adventures[3].
In a recent 54-day trip, the authors towed a custom-built tourist trailer with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, covering 5,710 km without incident[3]. The loaded EV ride had a 25% cost to its range during a test drive, and between 20-35% during the real route[3]. The authors used a 240v 3-pin 'granny charger' for nightly top-ups and spent $465.55 on 'fuel' for their 54-day trip[3].
The tourist trailer, which was custom-built for $4,000, was designed to carry all necessary equipment for a comfortable holiday[3]. The trailer featured two gullwings for rain shelter and access from both sides, with 6' x 4' of space and 1500mm of height[3].
As the cost of electric vehicles continues to decrease and their range and towing capacity increase, it is likely that more Australians will embrace the convenience and eco-friendliness of EVs for their recreational and utility needs.
[1] https://www.caradvice.com.au/870394/ldv-et60-ute-review/ [2] https://www.caradvice.com.au/869747/electric-utes-to-tow-more-in-australia-soon/ [3] https://www.caradvice.com.au/870242/hyundai-ioniq-5-towed-5710km-over-54-days-with-a-custom-built-trailer/ [4] https://www.ford.com.au/vehicles/ranger/towing-and-payload/ [5] https://www.toyota.com.au/vehicles/land-cruiser/70-series/towing-capacity/
In light of the advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) and the growing demand for recreational activities, home-and-garden enthusiasts are increasingly considering EVs as an eco-friendly option for towing small boats, utility trailers, and compact camper trailers for their leisure activities, aligning with the current EV towing capacity in Australia. As more manufacturers release higher-capacity EV models, the prospect of EV owners being able to tow larger trailers, such as caravans, horse floats, and heavier boats, becomes increasingly promising, potentially surpassing the towing capabilities of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
