Tow with Confidence: Navigating Canada's Roads in Electric Cars

As Canadians, we have a deep love for hitting the open road and embarking on epic road trips. Whether it's loading up our gear for a weekend getaway to Whistler's ski hills or towing a boat to Algonquin Park for a fishing expedition, towing is a reality for many drivers nationwide. However, with the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), some may wonder if towing with an electric car is feasible. The answer? Yes, it is! But, as with any new endeavor, there are important considerations to keep in mind when towing with an EV. Hitch City is here to provide valuable advice on this topic through our blog.

Adventure with a Slightly Different Set of Road Rules

EVs operate on a different refueling system compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. Unlike their gasoline counterparts, EVs don't have a quick-refill gas tank. Additionally, towing can strain the EV's battery, reducing its range. When towing with an EV, it requires more energy, resulting in higher energy consumption. This can pose challenges, especially for long-distance travel in Canada. For instance, a trip from Toronto to Montreal with a trailer full of fishing gear is manageable, but towing the same trailer to Banff may require extra planning to ensure sufficient range for the journey.

The key to safe towing with your EV is careful planning to ensure you have enough power for the trip. Here's how to avoid being stranded on the roadside:

Know Your Limits Every electric vehicle has a specific towing capacity. Consult your owner's manual to ensure you stay within this limit. Towing a boat with your compact car may not be advisable.

Map it Out! Identify charging stations along your route, especially for longer trips. Apps like PlugShare can help you locate charging points and ensure your EV's battery is fully charged. Consider it a fun scavenger hunt for electrons!

Pack Light Minimize your load to conserve battery power. Do you really need to haul that entire box set of Canadian history documentaries? Probably not. Pack light and be efficient.

Overheating: Don't Let Your EV Get Too Hot

Unlike gas engines, EVs rely on a cooling system to prevent overheating. Towing can strain this system, especially in hot summer weather. Be mindful of this and take breaks as needed. Take a break, eh?

Don't Push It If your EV starts to overheat, pull over, let it cool down, and grab a coffee at Timmies.

Drive Slower When towing, take it slow and steady. Take the time to appreciate Canada's stunning landscapes, one charging station stop at a time.

With a bit of knowledge and preparation, you can hitch up your trailer and explore Canada's wilderness worry-free. Just remember to stay prepared and keep your EV cool. At Hitch City, we're here to assist you every step of the way, offering the equipment and expertise you need for a safe and enjoyable towing experience. If you have any towing needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us today.