Tesla’s entry-level sedan, the Model 3 “Highland” (model year 2024 and later), now offers a towing package. This package offers up to 2,200 pounds of towing capacity, adding new versatility that was not possible with the previous model. The package, which includes a high-strength steel towbar and a 2-inch hitch receiver, is available only on non-Performance models and is especially suited to the Highland model due to its updated suspension. This gives Model 3 owners the possibility to haul small trailers or cargo.
Read Also: Volkswagen is restoring a 1977 T2 bus that survived California wildfires
The towing package includes several useful features. The package includes a 7-pin electrical connector for electric trailer brakes, which can be used to safely control towed vehicles equipped with such equipment. It also includes a towing software re-flash feature that programs the vehicle’s stability control to detect and mitigate trailer sway while towing. The kit will cost $1,300 and will be shipped directly to your Tesla Service Center for installation.
The 2,200-pound towing capacity isn’t for large trailers, but it’s plenty for a variety of activities. For example, it can tow the smallest Seadoo pontoon boat (2,153 pounds), which is a five-seat configuration, and the Model 3 is also a five-seat vehicle, which is convenient. It’s also more than enough to tow pop-up tent campers or cargo trailers that weigh less than 1,000 pounds, depending on the equipment. While towing typically has a significant impact on range, smaller trailers have a smaller impact, so you might not need to charge your Model 3 often when you take your camper or boat on a weekend trip.
Latest Videos From Car Bed
Of course, in addition to leveraging the 2,200-pound towing capacity itself, this package can have practical uses. Many users will likely use this package as a factory mounting point for hitch accessories, such as bike racks or cargo trays, rather than for towing. Since it’s an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) installation, it offers greater integration and stability with the vehicle.
Read Also: Why Dozens of Tesla Superchargers Are Being Removed in New Jersey
The addition of the towing package to the Model 3 isn’t the first time Tesla has offered towing capabilities. The Cybertruck has a towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds, but its range when towing a 4,000-pound trailer is only 160 miles, which is a significant reduction from its original range.
In contrast, the Model X, nine years ago, was able to drive 235 miles with the same 4,000-pound trailer, which is a relatively small decrease from its original range. We expect the Model 3 Highland to follow the Model X’s example rather than the Cybertruck’s when it comes to reduced range when towing.
