Hybrids have become increasingly popular due to concern for the environment as well as because they represent an attractive alternative to electric car ownership, which in Malta at the moment is difficult due to the lack of charging infrastructure.
There is, however, a common misconception that hybrid cars aren’t strong enough or powerful enough to tow. This isn’t actually true, and hybrid vehicles are built to tow in the same way that ICE and electric cars are. These cars may provide both efficiency and power by utilising cutting-edge hybrid technology, which makes them adaptable choices for a range of towing requirements.
But are they better than an ICE or electric vehicle at towing? Admittedly there are some limitations when it comes to towing with a hybrid car. In this article we explore exactly what they are and whether a hybrid would be suitable for your requirements.
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What’s different about towing with a hybrid compared to a normal car?
Sometimes, hybrid vehicles have a lower towing capacity than ICE vehicles. This doesn’t mean they aren’t good at towing – it just means that an equivalent ICE might be able to tow something heavier. As long as whatever you want to tow is within the towing guidelines for the particular hybrid you want to buy (which is something our sales representatives can tell you) then the car will be able to tow it with no extra hassles.
The reason for this has to do with the additional weight of the battery pack, as well as the fact that the powertrain is designed for efficiency and fuel economy. You also have to consider the size of the engine and the weight of the car – a small Yaris is never going to be able to match the towing capacity of a Hilux diesel, but that has nothing to do with the fact that one is a hybrid and one isn’t – it’s just that the Hilux is specifically designed to pull large loads, especially due to its 4-wheel drive system and high ride height for easier positioning of towbar and hitch angle.
So, to summarise – a hybrid will be fine for occasional towing. Make sure you are fully aware of exactly what it is you want to tow and check that this is below the maximum towing weight of your hybrid, and you will be fine.
Things you should consider when towing with your hybrid
A lot of this is also applicable to ICE cars. However, there are certain things you should consider when towing a load with your hybrid car. Failure to consider these things could lead to damage to your car as well as reduced performance and fuel economy.
- Fuel Economy and Battery Life: Fuel economy and battery life are likely to be affected when towing with your hybrid. Fuel consumption will increase due to the additional weight and aerodynamic drag from whatever you are towing. You may find the electric motor is used less and the car uses the petrol engine earlier than it otherwise would – and even when the electric motor is used, the battery is likely to last a lot less than it usually does.
- Towing capacity: If you exceed the towing capacity, your engine, transmission, and braking system are likely to experience damage – and this won’t be covered under warranty. You must understand the gross trailer weight (the weight of the trailer with cargo in it), the tongue weight (the amount of trailer weight that presses down on the towing hitch) and the maximum braked and unbraked trailer weights. All this is in your vehicle’s manual and it’s crucial to understand all of this before towing with your hybrid, as exceeding any of these weights can cause mechanical failure.
- Proper equipment and setup: Use a tow hitch compatible with your vehicle and its towing capacity. Make sure it is properly installed and secured. Failure to do this could lead to damage to your car or worse, the trailer detaching while you are moving. You should also ensure the weight in your trailer is distributed evenly to prevent issues with handling and stability.
- Speed whilst driving: Maintaining a safe and controlled speed is crucial while towing with a hybrid vehicle. Steer clear of rapid movements and speeding as these might put stress on the car’s brakes, engine, and transmission. Be prepared to adjust your speed in a way you might not have to when you are not towing, particularly when towing uphill or downhill. Maintaining stability is very important, and this, along with a reduced speed, vastly reduces the chances of an accident.
- Monitoring of Hybrid System: During towing, pay attention to how well your hybrid system is working. Keep an eye out for any warning lights or strange noises that could point to problems with the cooling system, powertrain, or hybrid battery. When you see any indications of overheating or decreased performance, stop the car safely and give it time to cool down before going on. If this happens often, you are probably exceeding the towing capacity of the vehicle. To avoid problems when towing, make sure the hybrid system is properly maintained and that the coolant levels are checked on a regular basis.
The best Toyota hybrids suitable for towing
When it comes to hybrid vehicles that are good for towing, a few models stand out due to their capacity and features that improve towing efficiency. Below are some examples:
Toyota Corolla Touring Hybrid
The Corolla Touring Hybrid blends practical features, a roomy cabin, and hybrid economy. The Corolla Hybrid is a very adaptable car for environmentally aware drivers who occasionally need to pull small trailers or recreational vehicles because of its sturdy construction and dependable performance. We would, however, not recommend regular towing of heavy items with this car.
Toyota C-HR Hybrid
Combining comfort, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency, the Toyota C-HR Hybrid is a sleek crossover SUV. The C-HR Hybrid can pull more loads than other hybrid vehicles in its class thanks to its strong hybrid drivetrain and available towing package. The power and adaptability of the C-HR Hybrid allow you to tow with confidence, whether you’re towing a boat, utility trailer, or camper. The C-HR is a much more capable towing vehicle and if you are considering towing with a Toyota hybrid, this is the one we would recommend.
FAQs
Does towing with a hybrid car affect the battery life?
Yes, towing with a hybrid car will impact the battery life, especially if the vehicle is towing near or at its maximum capacity for extended periods. The increased load on the hybrid powertrain, including the electric motor and battery, leads to higher energy consumption and more frequent charging cycles. This additional strain may accelerate battery degradation over time. It’s essential to consult your owner’s manual and adhere to recommended towing capacities and guidelines to minimise the impact on battery life.
Can towing void the warranty on a hybrid car?
Towing beyond the specified limits outlined by the manufacturer can potentially void the warranty on a hybrid car, as it may cause undue strain on the vehicle’s components and systems. Toyota provides towing guidelines and specifications in the vehicle’s owner’s manual, including maximum towing capacities and recommended towing equipment. Exceeding these limits or towing improperly may lead to accelerated wear and damage to the hybrid powertrain, suspension, and other critical components, potentially voiding the warranty.
