What EV Can Tow a Boat?
Plenty of EVs and plug-in hybrids are rated to tow — the trick is matching the vehicle to the boat and planning for reduced range. Here's how to work out which EV can tow a Cat Cruiser.
The four limits that decide it
Towing capability comes down to four numbers on your vehicle, not its badge: braked towing capacity, maximum towball download, GVM (how much the vehicle itself can weigh) and GCM (vehicle plus trailer combined). Stay inside all four and you're legal and safe.
Run your exact vehicle through our free tow check — it tests all four limits in about 30 seconds.
Matching a vehicle to each model
The Cat Cruiser 650 sits at around 1,750 kg on the trailer with roughly a 175 kg towball download — within reach of many larger SUVs, EVs and plug-in hybrid utes rated from about 2,000 kg braked.
The 750 and 870 are larger and are matched to tow vehicles rated to 3,500 kg braked. Always confirm your specific vehicle's ratings before you buy.
Plan for range — and consider a PHEV
Towing uses more energy, so a fully electric vehicle's range typically drops by around a third to a half while towing. For ramp runs that's rarely an issue; for long hauls it's the number to plan around.
Plug-in hybrid utes are the sweet spot: they tow on the combustion side without range anxiety, then run electric for short trips. Our extended-range towing package even lets a compatible PHEV draw from the boat's battery system, so the vessel doubles as a mobile power station.
FAQ
Can a Tesla Model Y (or similar EV) tow a Cat Cruiser?+
Check its braked towing capacity and towball limit first. The 650 at around 1,750 kg on the trailer is within reach of many larger EVs and plug-in hybrid utes; the 750 and 870 need a vehicle rated to 3,500 kg braked.
How much does towing cut an EV's range?+
Often by roughly a third to a half, depending on load, speed and terrain. It's rarely a problem for typical ramp trips — plan longer hauls around it.
Is a PHEV better than an EV for towing?+
For long-distance towing, often yes — a plug-in hybrid tows without range anxiety and runs electric around town. A compatible PHEV can also pair with our extended-range towing package.
Match your vehicle. Then come aboard.
Check all four legal limits in about 30 seconds — free, no sign-up.