A recent report from Norwegian media has noted that Tesla will be releasing towing equipment not only for the Model Y but also for the Model 3. The information was reportedly related by Tesla’s chief designer Franz von Holzhausen himself, who confirmed that such equipment was indeed coming for the electric vehicles.
Immediately following the Model Y event last week, the Swedish magazine Elbilen briefly conversed with Franz after he stepped off the stage asking if the newly unveiled SUV will have a towbar. After the Tesla Chief Designer said yes, the publication followed up with a question about the Model 3’s towing equipment. Franz’s response was brief, only stating “soon,” before smiling and disappearing into the crowd.
The utilization of a towbar for the Model Y was teased by images and videos taken of the vehicle during its unveiling. Teslarati‘s images, as well as footage from owner-enthusiast Daerik on YouTube, showed that the all-electric crossover was fitted with an unmistakable rear cover plate for a tow hitch receiver. The Model Y’s cover is rather similar to the plate found in the larger, more expensive Model X, which is also capable of towing.
Elon Musk has mentioned an optional tow hitch for the electric sedan in the past, though updates about the feature have been scarce. Things became more interesting in late January, when the Tesla Owners Club Norway (TOCN) discovered references to the Model 3’s towing capabilities in the vehicle’s diagrams. Mentioned were electrical towing-related components including a Trailer Light Controller and a Trailer Light ECU.
Tesla’s electric cars are capable of producing a lot of torque off the line due to their electric motors, making them ideal for towing projects. This makes even vehicles like an RWD Model 3 capable of pulling some serious cargo, as shown in some DIY projects that have been shared online. It should be noted that Teslas that are actually rated to haul heavy loads like the Model X are on a whole different level, as the SUV has shown impressive feats of strength in the past. Beyond its rated 5,000 lb towing capacity, the Model X has pulled a semi-trailer across the snow, a literal passenger airplane, and 250,000 pounds of dirt straight from a Boring Company tunnel.
