EVs and towing in Norway: what you should know

Range drops significantly with a trailer

Towing a trailer or caravan can cut range by 30–50%, depending on weight, speed, weather, and aerodynamics. Headwinds and mountain passes make the loss worse. Plan charging stops more often than without a trailer — the route planner helps — and assume you will rarely see the car’s best WLTP figure while towing something heavy.

Lower speed helps noticeably: dropping from 90 to 80 km/h can save a lot of energy when a trailer adds drag. Stay well within the car’s approved towing weight, and remember that hills and braking with a load demand more from both the battery and the brakes.

Approved towing capacity and equipment

Not all EVs are approved for a tow bar. Check the manufacturer’s max weight (braked/unbraked), whether a tow bar can be fitted, and whether the car has trailer stability control. For caravan road trips, models with documented towing capacity, decent winter range, and steady fast charging are clearly preferable. Start in best EV for towing, compare towing capacity, and check winter range before you decide.

Charging and route planning with a trailer

Choose charging stations with room for car plus trailer, and avoid tight city sites when you can. Charge more often to 70–80% instead of emptying the battery between long legs. In winter, add extra margin – cold weather and a trailer are a demanding combination.