The Truth About EVs

10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Electric Vehicles

July 8, 2026 /

Buying an EV can feel intimidating if you’ve never owned one before. Between charging, batteries, and unfamiliar technology, it’s easy to think they’re completely different from gas-powered cars.

The reality? Some things are very different—and some are much simpler than most people expect.

Here are ten things that surprise first-time EV owners.

1. Most EVs don’t need oil changes.

This is probably the biggest surprise.

Since there’s no gasoline engine, there’s no engine oil to replace every few thousand miles.

That doesn’t mean EVs are maintenance-free—they still have brake fluid, coolant (on many models), cabin air filters, tires, and suspension components—but regular oil changes disappear from the maintenance schedule.

2. Many EVs don’t come with a spare tire.

This surprised me when I bought my Volkswagen ID.4.

Many manufacturers use the extra space for weight savings or storage and instead include a tire repair kit or roadside assistance.

If having a spare matters to you, it’s worth checking before you buy.

3. The battery usually lasts much longer than people think.

Many people worry they’ll need a new battery after five years.

In reality, most modern EV batteries are designed to last well over 100,000 miles, and many owners are seeing far more than that with only gradual capacity loss.

Most manufacturers also include long battery warranties.

4. EVs still have a regular 12-volt battery.

This catches people off guard.

The large battery powers the vehicle, but there’s still a traditional 12-volt battery running electronics, computers, lights, and accessories.

If the 12-volt battery dies, the car may not start—even if the high-voltage battery is full.

5. Regenerative braking feels strange at first.

Instead of wasting energy as heat, many EVs use the electric motor to slow the car and send some energy back into the battery.

Some drivers hardly touch the brake pedal around town once they get used to it.

Learn more about regenerative braking

6. You can charge at home.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that EV owners spend their lives waiting at public chargers.

Most charging actually happens overnight at home.

For many owners, it’s like plugging in a phone before bed.

7. Cold weather affects range—but so does driving a gas car.

Winter reduces battery efficiency, so you’ll likely see less range.

Gasoline vehicles also become less efficient in cold weather, but it’s less noticeable because gas stations are everywhere.

Knowing how temperature affects range makes winter planning much easier.

8. EVs are usually very quiet.

The lack of engine noise surprises nearly everyone during their first drive.

Some manufacturers even add artificial sounds at low speeds so pedestrians can hear the vehicle approaching.

9. Tire wear can be higher.

Electric vehicles often weigh more because of their battery packs, and they deliver instant torque.

That combination can wear tires faster than some comparable gas vehicles—especially if you enjoy quick acceleration.

Driving style makes a big difference.

10. They can sit for weeks without problems.

Many people assume an EV battery constantly drains while parked.

In reality, most modern EVs can sit for several weeks with very little battery loss.

For longer storage, keeping the battery around 50–60% charge is generally recommended.

Internal link: “How Long Can an EV Sit Without Being Driven?”

Final Thoughts

Electric vehicles aren’t perfect, and they aren’t for everyone. But many of the biggest concerns people have turn out to be based on misconceptions rather than real ownership experience.

The more you understand how they work, the easier it becomes to decide whether an EV fits your lifestyle.

How Long Can an Electric Vehicle Sit Without Being Driven?

July 8, 2026 /

The short answer

Most modern EVs can safely sit for several weeks or even a few months without being driven, provided the battery isn’t left completely full or nearly empty.

Unlike gasoline vehicles, EVs don’t have engine oil circulating through an engine, fuel degrading in injectors, or dozens of moving parts that need regular operation.

Ironically, many EVs tolerate sitting better than gasoline vehicles.

What actually happens while an EV sits?

People imagine the battery is constantly draining. It does—but usually much slower than expected.

The car uses a small amount of energy for things like:

  • battery monitoring
  • security systems
  • cellular connection
  • remote app connectivity
  • thermal management (on some models)

Many owners report losing only 1–3% per week, while others see even less. Temperature and vehicle model make a noticeable difference.

Ideal battery charge for storage

This is probably the most important tip.

For storage lasting more than a week or two:

  • Around 50–60% is ideal.
  • Anywhere from 40–70% is perfectly reasonable.
  • Avoid leaving the battery at 100% for extended periods.
  • Avoid leaving it below 20%, especially if you’re unsure when you’ll drive it again.

Think of lithium-ion batteries like people—they’re happiest somewhere in the middle, not at either extreme.

Should you leave it plugged in?

Usually yes.

If your vehicle allows you to set a charge limit (many do), set it around 60–80% and leave it plugged into a Level 1 or Level 2 charger.

The car can maintain itself without keeping the battery at 100%.

If you don’t have home charging, parking it around 50–60% for several weeks is generally fine.

Cold weather storage

Winter changes things.

Very cold temperatures reduce available battery capacity temporarily, but they don’t necessarily damage the battery.

If the vehicle will sit outside during freezing weather:

  • Don’t leave it nearly empty.
  • Around 50–70% is a comfortable range.
  • If possible, leave it plugged in so the battery management system can protect the pack.

Hot weather storage

Extreme heat is harder on lithium-ion batteries than cold.

If parking outside for weeks during summer:

  • Avoid leaving the battery at 100%.
  • Park in shade if possible.
  • Keep the battery somewhere around the middle of its charge range.

How does this compare to a gasoline vehicle?

Here’s where things get interesting.

EVGas vehicle
No engine oil circulation concernsOil drains off engine components over time
No fuel degradationGasoline slowly degrades
No fuel injectors to gum upFuel system can varnish during long storage
No exhaust moisture concernsShort trips and storage can encourage condensation
Very little routine maintenanceMore fluids and mechanical systems

However…

Both have a traditional 12-volt battery.

That battery is often what causes trouble first—not the EV battery.

If either vehicle sits for months, a battery maintainer can be a worthwhile investment.

If your EV is your “good weather” car

Many people own an EV alongside an SUV or truck used for:

  • snow
  • towing
  • hunting
  • camping
  • severe winter weather

That’s perfectly reasonable.

A simple routine might look like this:

  • Drive the EV once every couple of weeks.
  • Let regenerative braking and normal driving cycle the battery.
  • Recharge back to your preferred storage level.

No special rituals required.

Bottom line

If you won’t be driving your EV for a while:

  • Store it around 50–60% charge.
  • Avoid 100% for long periods.
  • Avoid leaving it nearly empty.
  • Plug it in if practical and use a reasonable charge limit.
  • Drive it occasionally if storage stretches into months.

Compared with a similar gasoline vehicle, an EV often requires less attention during storage because there are simply fewer mechanical systems affected by sitting still.

Why Do Some Electric Vehicles Feel So Much Bigger Inside?

July 7, 2026 /

One of the biggest surprises people have after test driving an electric vehicle has nothing to do with acceleration or charging.

It’s the interior space.

Many drivers climb into an EV and immediately say something like:

“This feels much bigger than I expected.”

Is that just an illusion?

Not entirely.

It’s Not That Every EV Is Bigger

Let’s start with an important point.

Not every electric vehicle has more interior room than a comparable gasoline vehicle.

Vehicle size, design priorities, and manufacturer choices all matter.

However, many EVs make better use of the space they have, which can make them feel surprisingly roomy.

The Biggest Difference Is What’s Missing

A traditional gasoline vehicle has to make room for several large mechanical components:

  • A gasoline engine
  • A transmission
  • An exhaust system
  • A fuel tank
  • Driveshafts (on many vehicles)
  • Cooling systems designed around an engine

An electric vehicle replaces much of that with:

  • One or more compact electric motors
  • A large battery pack, usually mounted under the floor
  • Much simpler driveline components

This gives designers much more flexibility.

A Longer Wheelbase Without a Bigger Vehicle

One of the biggest advantages is something called the wheelbase.

The wheelbase is simply the distance between the front and rear wheels.

Because EV designers don’t have to fit a large engine under the hood, they can often push the wheels farther toward the corners of the vehicle.

That creates:

  • More legroom
  • More rear-seat space
  • Better weight distribution
  • A smoother ride

without making the vehicle dramatically longer overall.

Why Tall Drivers Often Notice It

As someone over six feet tall, this is one of the first things I notice.

Many compact gasoline cars require the dashboard, firewall, engine bay, and transmission tunnel to occupy space that could otherwise be used for passengers.

In many EVs, the cabin begins farther forward, and the floor is flatter because there is no traditional transmission tunnel running through the middle.

That doesn’t automatically mean every tall driver will fit better.

But it does mean you’ll often find more usable space than you might expect from the vehicle’s exterior dimensions.

The “Cab Forward” Design

Many EVs also use what’s sometimes called a cab-forward design.

Because the front of the vehicle doesn’t need to house a large gasoline engine, designers can move the passenger compartment slightly forward while keeping crash safety structures in place.

The result is an interior that often feels more open.

Flat Floors Make a Difference

Many EVs also have a nearly flat rear floor.

Without a large driveshaft tunnel running down the center of the vehicle, rear passengers often have more room for their feet.

This is especially noticeable when carrying three passengers across the back seat.

It’s Not Magic

There are still tradeoffs.

The battery pack under the floor raises the seating position slightly in some vehicles.

Some EVs sacrifice cargo space to achieve other design goals.

Others use the extra room for additional storage, such as a front trunk (“frunk”).

Like any vehicle, good packaging depends on the manufacturer’s priorities.

Should Tall Drivers Test Drive an EV?

Absolutely.

If you’ve always assumed you needed a midsize or large SUV simply because you’re tall, an electric vehicle may surprise you.

Several EVs offer interior space comparable to larger gasoline vehicles despite having similar—or even smaller—outside dimensions.

The only way to know is to sit in one.

You may find that the extra room isn’t marketing—it comes from a fundamentally different way of packaging the vehicle.

What Are EV Braking Modes? Understanding One-Pedal Driving, Regenerative Braking, and “B” Mode

July 7, 2026 /

One of the biggest surprises for new electric vehicle owners isn’t the acceleration.

It’s the braking.

If you’ve driven more than one EV, you’ve probably noticed they don’t all behave the same when you lift off the accelerator. Some coast almost like a gasoline car. Others slow down aggressively. Some can even come to a complete stop without touching the brake pedal.

So what’s going on?

It’s Called Regenerative Braking

Unlike a gasoline car, an electric vehicle can use its electric motor as a generator.

When you lift off the accelerator, the motor begins converting some of the vehicle’s momentum back into electricity, sending energy to the battery instead of wasting it as heat through the brake pads.

This process is called regenerative braking.

The harder the regeneration, the more the car slows down.

Not Every EV Behaves the Same

Manufacturers take different approaches.

Some vehicles are designed to feel familiar to drivers coming from gasoline cars and coast naturally when you lift off the accelerator.

Others are designed around stronger regenerative braking that noticeably slows the vehicle.

Some models allow true one-pedal driving, where lifting off the accelerator slows the vehicle enough to stop completely under many driving conditions.

Others only slow the car and require the brake pedal for the final few miles per hour.

There isn’t one “correct” approach—it’s largely a design choice.

What Does “B” Mode Do?

On my Volkswagen ID.4, the gear selector has two driving positions:

  • D (Drive) – behaves more like a traditional automatic transmission, allowing more coasting.
  • B (Brake) – increases regenerative braking when you lift off the accelerator.

In B mode, the vehicle slows more aggressively, making it easier to control speed without constantly moving your foot to the brake pedal. However, the ID.4 still requires the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

Other manufacturers use different names or buttons, but the idea is similar.

What About One-Pedal Driving?

Some EVs—including certain versions of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Equinox EV, and Hyundai Ioniq 5—offer one-pedal driving.

When enabled, lifting completely off the accelerator can slow the vehicle all the way to a stop in many situations.

Many drivers enjoy it because:

  • It reduces how often you move between the accelerator and brake pedal.
  • It can make stop-and-go traffic less tiring.
  • It allows very smooth speed control once you get used to it.

Some people love it immediately.

Others prefer traditional coasting.

Fortunately, many manufacturers let you choose.

Does Regenerative Braking Save Brake Pads?

Yes.

Because the electric motor is doing much of the slowing, the conventional brakes are used less frequently.

That means EV brake pads often last much longer than those on comparable gasoline vehicles.

Ironically, some EV owners experience rusty brake rotors before they wear out because the friction brakes simply aren’t used as often.

Does Regenerative Braking Charge the Battery?

Yes—but don’t expect miracles.

Regenerative braking recovers a portion of the energy that would otherwise be lost while slowing down.

It helps improve efficiency, especially during city driving with frequent stops.

However, it doesn’t create free energy or completely recharge the battery.

Think of it as recovering some of the energy you already spent.

Which Mode Is Best?

There isn’t one answer.

Some drivers prefer maximum regeneration because they enjoy one-pedal driving.

Others prefer coasting because it feels more natural on the highway.

If your EV offers multiple braking modes, try each one for a week.

You may find your preference changes as you become more comfortable with electric driving.

Final Thoughts

One of the fun parts of owning an EV is discovering that different manufacturers have different philosophies.

Some prioritize a familiar driving experience.

Others embrace strong regenerative braking and one-pedal driving.

Neither approach is right or wrong—they’re simply different ways of using the same technology.

If you’re shopping for an EV, don’t overlook braking modes during your test drive. They can make a bigger difference in daily driving than you might expect.

Why Are Electric Vehicles So Controversial?

July 7, 2026 /

Spend five minutes in the comments section of almost any EV article and you’ll see the same arguments.

Someone says hybrids are better. Someone says EVs are a scam. Someone says the grid can’t handle them. Someone else posts one negative headline and says, “See, I told you.”

So what’s actually going on?

The truth is that electric vehicles are not perfect, but they also aren’t failing the way social media often makes it seem.

EVs Became a Culture War Topic

For a lot of people, cars are personal. They are tied to identity, politics, income, geography, lifestyle, and even masculinity. So when EVs became associated with government policy, environmental rules, tax credits, and big changes in the auto industry, they became more than just cars.

They became symbols.

That is why some people react emotionally to EV news. A battery recall, charging problem, resale issue, or canceled model becomes proof that the entire idea was bad from the start.

But that is not how technology adoption usually works.

Hybrids Really Are Having a Moment

The people saying hybrids are a practical middle ground are not completely wrong.

Hybrids make sense for many drivers. They are familiar, easy to fuel, usually less expensive than many EVs, and do not require charging behavior changes. For people who drive long distances, live in apartments, tow frequently, or do not have home charging, a hybrid may genuinely be the better choice right now.

That does not mean EVs are a failure.

It means different powertrains fit different use cases.

Social Media Makes the Debate Worse

Social media rewards conflict.

A headline like:

“EV Sales Growth Slows”

will often get more engagement than:

“EV Adoption Continues Unevenly as the Market Matures”

The first one creates an argument. The second one is closer to reality.

Negative EV stories get amplified because they trigger both sides. EV supporters defend the technology. EV critics pile on. The algorithm does not care who is right. It cares that people are arguing.

That makes the online conversation feel much louder and more dramatic than the actual market data.

What Does the Data Say?

Globally, EVs are still growing. Electric car sales exceeded 17 million worldwide in 2024 and represented more than 20% of global new-car sales.

In the United States, the story is more mixed. EV adoption has grown over the past several years, but the market has also hit bumps due to pricing, charging concerns, interest rates, model availability, and policy changes. U.S. plug-in vehicle share has hovered around the high single digits recently, with some monthly and quarterly swings.

That means two things can be true at the same time:

  1. EVs are not taking over overnight.
  2. EVs are not going away.

The Real Answer

The reality is less dramatic than the comment sections.

EVs are excellent for some people:

  • Home charging
  • Predictable daily driving
  • Lower routine maintenance
  • Quiet operation
  • Strong performance
  • Less dependence on gas

Hybrids are excellent for others:

  • No charging required
  • Better road-trip flexibility
  • Lower transition anxiety
  • Familiar ownership experience
  • Strong fuel economy

Gas vehicles still make sense for some drivers too, especially in cases involving cost, towing, rural use, or limited charging access.

Where Can You Check the Real Trend?

If you want to get past the noise, look at actual sales data instead of comment sections.

Good sources include:

  • International Energy Agency Global EV Outlook
  • Argonne National Laboratory light-duty electric drive vehicle sales updates
  • Cox Automotive / Kelley Blue Book EV sales reports
  • Bureau of Transportation Statistics vehicle sales tables

Those sources show a more realistic picture: EV growth is real, but uneven. Hybrids are growing too. Gas vehicles still dominate in many markets. The transition is happening, but it is messy.

Final Thought

Electric vehicles are controversial because they sit at the intersection of technology, politics, infrastructure, money, identity, and habit.

That makes them perfect fuel for online arguments.

But outside the comment section, the truth is simpler:

EVs are not magic. Hybrids are not a conspiracy. Gas vehicles are not disappearing tomorrow.

The real question is not “Which one is best?”

The better question is:

Which one fits your life right now?

For some people, that answer is an EV. For others, it is a hybrid. For others, it is still a gas vehicle.

And that is okay.

For source checking: IEA says global EV sales exceeded 17 million in 2024 and topped 20% of global car sales, while Argonne shows U.S. plug-in vehicle share around 9.9% in 2024, 9.1% in 2025, and 7.1% for May 2026 monthly sales. Cox also reported a U.S. EV share peak in Q3 2025 followed by a Q4 drop, which explains why headlines can look dramatic even when the longer-term picture is more mixed.

Can Any Mechanic Work on an Electric Vehicle?

July 6, 2026 /

One of the biggest misconceptions about electric vehicles is that they require a dealership for every repair. In reality, many of the maintenance items on an EV are very similar to a gasoline-powered vehicle.

Here’s a quick breakdown.

Repairs Most Independent Shops Can Handle

Most suspension, steering, tire, and brake work doesn’t change simply because the car is electric.

A qualified independent repair shop can typically perform services such as:

  • Tire replacement and balancing
  • Wheel alignments
  • Brake pad and rotor replacement
  • Brake fluid flushes
  • Ball joints
  • Tie rods
  • Wheel bearings
  • Control arms
  • Struts and shocks
  • Suspension bushings

These components function much like they do on conventional vehicles, and many experienced repair shops are already familiar with servicing them.

One interesting difference is that EV brake pads often last significantly longer thanks to regenerative braking. Because the electric motor helps slow the vehicle, the traditional friction brakes simply don’t get used as often.

Repairs That Usually Require EV Training

Where electric vehicles become more specialized is anything involving the high-voltage electrical system.

These repairs are generally best left to a dealership or an independent shop with EV certification and proper safety equipment.

Examples include:

  • High-voltage battery pack repairs
  • Battery cooling systems
  • Inverters
  • Onboard chargers
  • High-voltage wiring
  • Drive motors
  • Battery management system diagnostics

These components operate at voltages that require specialized training and insulated tools.

The Bottom Line

Owning an electric vehicle doesn’t mean every repair has to be done at the dealership.

For tires, brakes, suspension, steering, and many routine maintenance items, a trusted independent repair shop can often handle the work just as they would on a gasoline-powered vehicle.

The dealership—or a qualified EV specialist—becomes much more important when the repair involves the vehicle’s high-voltage electrical system.

As electric vehicles become more common, more independent repair facilities are investing in EV training. That means owners will likely have even more service options in the years ahead.

What Happens If You Lose Your EV Key Fob While Driving?

July 6, 2026 /

One thing I recently learned the hard way with my 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S is that your EV will continue driving even if the key fob is no longer in the vehicle.

Here’s what happened.

While loading my daughter into the car, I accidentally set the key fob on the roof and forgot about it. We drove away as normal. Somewhere along the drive, the key fell off the vehicle.

The ID.4 kept driving without any major warning that the key was gone.

The real problem came after I reached my destination.

Once I shut the vehicle off, it would not restart because there was no authorized key present.

At that point, there wasn’t much I could do.

I had to call an Uber, ride home, grab my spare key, and then return to the vehicle.

Ironically, my spare key’s battery had died, so that wasn’t much help either.

Fortunately, an incredibly kind Uber driver agreed to retrace my route. Against all odds, we found my original key fob lying in the road after it had apparently been run over by traffic.

Believe it or not, it still worked well enough to get us home.

Lessons Learned

If you drive an EV—or really, any modern push-button-start vehicle—it’s worth remembering a few things:

  • Your vehicle may continue driving even after the key leaves the vehicle.
  • Once you turn the car off, you may not be able to restart it without another working key.
  • Carrying a spare key (or at least making sure your spare has a fresh battery) is more important than many people realize.
  • Before driving away, take one last glance to make sure your key isn’t sitting on the roof.

Final Thoughts

In today’s world of smart keys and connected vehicles, I was surprised there wasn’t a better recovery option once the fob was gone.

Thankfully, this happened in Michigan—not somewhere remote or in extreme heat. I also had help from an Uber driver who went above and beyond to help us recover the key.

If you own an EV, learn from my mistake. It only takes a few seconds to double-check that your key is actually in your pocket before you pull away.

What to Do If Your EV Isn’t Rated for Towing (Like Mine)

June 23, 2025 /

So, you just bought an EV and realized it’s not rated for towing in your market. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. My RWD Volkswagen ID.4 falls into that exact category in the U.S., even though similar models elsewhere are tow-capable. So what can you do?

First: Understand Why It’s Not Rated

Manufacturers may not certify a vehicle for towing in certain countries due to:

  • Liability concerns
  • Regulatory differences
  • Suspension or cooling system limitations
  • Marketing priorities (some U.S. models skip towing to focus on range)

Second: Don’t Panic—Here Are Your Options

  • ✔️ Option 1: Use a Hitch for Accessories Only
    • Most “unrated” EVs can safely handle a Class 1 or 2 hitch for bike racks or cargo trays.
    • Be sure the hitch is frame-mounted and installed professionally.
  • ⚠️Option 2: Light, Unofficial Towing (Not Recommended)
    • Some folks use aftermarket hitches for ultra-light trailers (e.g., small utility carts).
    • But: this can void your warranty, and most EV braking and regen systems aren’t optimized for towing.
    • Proceed at your own risk, and know that resale value or dealer service could be impacted.
  • ⛔ Option 3: Don’t Tow
    • If you can’t risk it, don’t. That’s the most manufacturer-safe move.
    • Look into rental trucks or vans for occasional hauls, or consider a second tow-rated vehicle.
    • If you haven’t purchased one yet, look into our list of towing-safe EVs.

Third: Look into International Models

Sometimes, the same EV is rated for towing in Europe or Canada. That tells you:

  • The platform can handle it.
  • You might be able to add hardware down the road if you’re savvy (but again, warranty risk).
  • It gives hope that future U.S. models may get updates.

Final Takeaway

Just because your EV isn’t “tow-rated” doesn’t mean it’s useless-it just means it wasn’t marketed or certified that way in the US. Use your vehicle within spec, explore alternatives, and advocate for more transparency in U.S. EV specs.

EVs That Are Good for Towing

June 23, 2025 /

Not all EVs are created equal when it comes to towing — and some manufacturers restrict tow ratings by market. For example, the Volkswagen ID.4 is rated for up to 2,700 lbs in Europe but has no tow rating in the U.S. due to legal and insurance liabilities.

If you’re buying in the U.S. (Or wherever), always double-check the official owner’s manual and build specs. Even when the vehicle is physically capable, the tow rating may be absent due to market-specific testing, certification, or warranty coverage. When in doubt, don’t assume your EV can tow — especially in North America.

✅ Top EVs for Towing

  • Rivian R1T: 11,000 lbs (Leading the pack for serious towing)
  • Ford F-150 Lightning: Up to 10,000 lbs (Extended Range + Max Tow Package essential)
  • Chevrolet Silverado EV: 10,000 lbs (WT model; note on future higher ratings for specific trims)
  • Tesla Cybertruck AWD: 11,000 lbs (Leverages advanced software for stability)
  • GMC Hummer EV Pickup/SUV: ~7,500 lbs (A brute with substantial pulling power)
  • Rivian R1S: 7,700 lbs (Excellent family SUV with strong towing for trailers)
  • Tesla Model X: 5,000 lbs (A long-standing capable EV for moderate towing)
  • Kia EV9 AWD: Up to 5,000 lbs (Strong contender in the 3-row SUV segment)
  • Volvo EX90: ~4,850 lbs (New luxury 3-row with solid towing)
  • Audi Q8 e-tron / SQ8 e-tron: 4,000 – 4,400 lbs (Premium SUV with good capability)
  • BMW iX M60: 5,500 lbs (Luxury and capability, check regional specs)
  • Tesla Model Y (AWD with tow package): 3,500 lbs (Popular choice for lighter towing needs)
  • Genesis Electrified GV70: 3,500 lbs (Luxury option with decent capacity)
  • Volkswagen ID.4 AWD: 2,700 lbs (A widely available option for lighter loads)
  • Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD / Kia EV6 AWD: 2,300 lbs (Surprisingly capable for their size, for lighter trailers)
  • Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: Up to 4,000 lbs (Luxury SUV with moderate towing)

🚫 10 EVs Not Recommended for Towing

  • Chevrolet Bolt EV/EUV: No official tow rating.
  • Nissan Leaf: No official U.S. tow rating (very light duty in Europe).
  • Hyundai Kona EV: No official U.S. tow rating (light duty in Europe).
  • Mazda MX-30: No tow rating, very limited range.
  • Mini Cooper SE: Designed for city driving, no towing.
  • Fiat 500e: No structural support for towing.
  • Tesla Model 3 RWD/AWD (without specific tow package/region): Generally not factory-rated for towing in the U.S. (unlike Model Y).
  • Lucid Air: High-performance luxury sedan, not designed for towing.
  • Toyota bZ4X (and Subaru Solterra): Minimal or no official towing, not marketed for it.
  • VinFast VF8: Limited data and stability concerns under load make it questionable for towing.
  • Any small, economy-focused EV not explicitly listed with a tow rating: Most will simply not be designed or rated for towing.

General Considerations for EV Towing:

It’s important to remember a few key things about towing with EVs:

  • Range Reduction: Towing significantly reduces an EV’s range. This is a crucial point that can’t be overstated. Heavier loads and aerodynamic drag from trailers mean you’ll be stopping to charge much more frequently.
  • Charging Infrastructure: Not all charging stations are tow-friendly (e.g., pull-through spots are limited). This requires extra planning for longer towing trips.
  • Instant Torque: EVs excel at towing due to their instant torque, making for very smooth acceleration even with heavy loads.
  • Regenerative Braking: While helpful for efficiency, some EVs might have limitations or require specific settings when using regenerative braking with a heavy towed load to prevent overheating or damage.

Please remember to check the specific owner’s manual and trim levels for your desired vehicle for the most accurate and up-to-date towing information.

Sources

  1. go-e: Electric Cars Towing Trailers Guide (2025)
  2. Car and Driver: Rivian R1T (2024)
  3. Cornerstone Ford: F-150 Lightning Towing Capacity
  4. Car and Driver: Silverado EV (2026)
  5. Car and Driver: Rivian R1S (2022)
  6. Car and Driver: BMW iX (2026)
  7. Hyundai Newsroom: Ioniq 5 Overview (2023)
  8. Fowler Kia: EV9 Towing Info
  9. Mercedes-Benz Scottsdale Blog (2025)
  10. Car and Driver: GMC Hummer EV
  11. Edmunds: Audi Q8 e-tron (2024)
  12. Polestar: Polestar 3 Specifications
  13. Genesis Atlanta: GV70 Towing
  14. Fleet EV News: Kona EV Towing
  15. CarsGuide: Mazda MX-30 Towing
  16. TorkLift Central: Mini Cooper SE Trailer Hitch
  17. eTowbars: Fiat 500e Towbar (U.S.)
  18. Lucid Motors: Gravity Essentials

🔥 Driving an EV in 90+ degree heat: What you need to know

June 22, 2025 /

If you’ve been sweating it out in your EV lately, you’re not alone. With temperatures hitting 90 degrees and up around the US, it’s natural to wonder:

Is blasting the A/C going to wreck my range?

Should I crack the window instead?

How different is EV heat management compared to gas cars?

Let’s break it down.

Key Considerations When Driving Your EV in the Heat

  • 1. Climate control eats range — but not as much as you’d think
    Unlike ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) cars, EVs don’t “waste” engine heat for cabin comfort. Instead, they draw from your battery. (Womp womp) Turning the A/C on will reduce range, but usually only by 5–10%, especially in modern EVs with efficient systems.
  • 2. Heat pumps help a LOT
    If your EV has a heat pump (like many Teslas, Hyundai Ioniq 5, or some VW ID.4 trims), it uses ambient air more efficiently. That means less battery drain to cool you down.
  • 3. Pre-conditioning is your friend
    You can cool the car while it’s plugged in so it doesn’t zap your range once you unplug. Use your app or scheduled departure feature when possible.
  • 4. EV batteries hate extreme heat
    High temps can accelerate long-term battery degradation — not instantly, but over time. Park in the shade, use a sunshade, and avoid deep fast charges if your battery is already scorching.
  • 5. Cabin temp doesn’t match engine temp
    Since EVs don’t have a traditional engine, heat buildup is more gradual. You might not feel it right away, but battery temps can spike during long drives or DC fast charging.

❄️ Pro Tip:

Cracking the window can help a little, but don’t suffer. Your comfort matters, and today’s EVs are designed to manage temperature efficiently. Just be mindful of your range if you’re far from a charger.

How EVs Differ From ICE/Hybrids in the Heat:

FeatureEVICE/Hybrid
Cabin A/C SourceBattery-poweredEngine heat + A/C compressor
Idle CoolingSilent, efficientRequires engine running
Pre-cooling while plugged inYes No or limited
Waste heat availabilityMinimalHigh (engine)
Battery heat sensitivityHighLower

Bottom line: Hot weather has SOME effect on EVs, but it’s totally manageable with a little awareness. Use your tech, precondition when you can, and stay cool — literally and figuratively.

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