Tesla Model S (2021+) — Towing capacity + hitch + range-under-tow
This 2021–2026 Tesla Model S towing guide separates verified EU-market ratings from hitch caution. EV Database lists MY26 Model S AWD at 1,600 kg braked towing; the Plaid entry publishes no tow data.
At a Glance — Towing Numbers
| Metric | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Model S AWD braked towing, EU-market MY26 | 3,527 lb | 1,600 kg |
| Model S AWD unbraked towing, EU-market MY26 | 1,653 lb | 750 kg |
| Model S AWD vertical load, EU-market MY26 | 220 lb | 100 kg |
| Model S Plaid towing, EU-market MY26 | No verified tow rating published in the EV Database entry checked | |
| Model S AWD real range before towing, EU-market MY26 | 367 mi | 590 km |
AWD vs Plaid: Verified Tow-Rating Split
There is no single universal Model S tow number. The current EU-market AWD page lists a hitch and 1,600 kg braked limit; the Plaid page shows tow fields as no data. Treat the AWD figure as market- and trim-specific.
| Spec | 2026 Model S AWD — EU market | 2026 Model S Plaid — EU market |
|---|---|---|
| Tow hitch possible | Yes | No data |
| Towing weight, unbraked | 750 kg / 1,653 lb | No data |
| Towing weight, braked | 1,600 kg / 3,527 lb | No data |
| Vertical load / tongue load | 100 kg / 220 lb | No data |
| Real range estimate before towing | 590 km / 367 mi | 565 km / 351 mi |
Range Under Tow
No verified table gives fixed Model S range while towing. Trailer height, speed, tires, temperature, and grade dominate; Recharged frames common outcomes as roughly 35–60% less usable range.
| Trailer scenario | Planning impact | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| Bike rack or cargo carrier | Small to moderate range hit | Still check vertical load and rear clearance. |
| Low utility trailer around 1,000 lb | Often 35–45% less usable highway range | Speed and tire pressure matter more than city range estimates. |
| Low camper around 1,800–2,500 lb | Often 50–60% less usable highway range | Use conservative charging stops and avoid arriving below reserve. |
| Tall trailer near max rating | High aero drag; do not assume solo-road-trip spacing | Crosswinds and emergency braking become the limiting factors. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 2021+ Tesla Model S tow?
In the verified EV Database entry, the EU-market 2026 Model S AWD lists tow hitch possible, 750 kg unbraked towing, and 1,600 kg braked towing. That does not automatically make every Model S market, year, or Plaid trim tow-rated, so confirm your local manual and registration plate first.
What is the Model S Plaid towing capacity?
The current EV Database Model S Plaid MY26 page checked for this draft lists tow hitch and towing fields as no data. Because Plaid is heavier and not documented there with a braked rating, do not copy the AWD EU-market towing number onto Plaid without a market-specific Tesla source.
How much range will towing remove?
There is no one fixed percentage. A low utility trailer can remove roughly a third to nearly half of highway range, while a camper or tall trailer can remove about half or more. Speed, frontal area, tire setup, temperature, and elevation change usually matter more than trailer weight alone.
Is an aftermarket hitch safe on a Model S?
A hitch used for bikes or cargo is different from a tow-rated hitch used with a braked trailer. If your car lacks a verified tow rating in your market, treat aftermarket towing as a warranty, insurance, braking, and stability question before hardware shopping. The rating must come first.
Does tongue weight count against payload?
Yes. Tongue load is carried by the car, so it reduces remaining payload for passengers and cargo. The EU-market AWD entry lists 100 kg vertical load and 438 kg payload; those limits have to work together, not separately, when the trunk and cabin are also loaded.
Recommended SKUs for Model S Tow-Day Prep
These BASENOR products do not increase tow rating; they protect the car around loading, service points, and road grime.
2013-2026 Tesla Jack Pad Set$29.99Shop
2021-2026 Model S Mud Flaps$31.99Shop
2021-2026 Model S Floor Mats 7PCS$209.99Shop
Shop by Category
Use these collection paths for refreshed Model S/X fitment checks before choosing products.
Related Guides
Sources: EV Database Model S AWD MY26 and Model S Plaid MY26 EU-market entries accessed May 14, 2026; Wikipedia Tesla Model S overview verified May 14, 2026; Recharged Model S towing guide accessed May 14, 2026 for range-loss framing. WebFetch hit local fake-IP SSRF protection; public_url_probe and direct requests verified sources. Tesla.com returned 403.