In a real-world test that pushes the limits of electric vehicle capability, a Kia EV9 GT-Line recently towed a 6×12 U-Haul trailer for 60 miles. While the EV's ample power made the task seem effortless, the test revealed that towing range and handling are where the real challenges lie.

The Towing Test: What Happened

An owner decided to put the Kia EV9 GT-Line through its paces by hitching up a 6×12 U-Haul trailer for a 60-mile journey. The test wasn't just about seeing if the EV could move the trailer—it was about understanding the real-world impact on range, stability, and overall driving dynamics.

The EV9 GT-Line, a three-row electric SUV, is rated for towing, but this test aimed to see how it performs with a typical rental trailer loaded with household goods. The route included a mix of highway and local roads, providing a comprehensive look at how the vehicle handles towing duties.

Power Was the Easy Part

As the title suggests, the EV9's electric motors had no trouble generating the necessary torque to get the trailer moving. Acceleration was brisk, and the SUV maintained highway speeds without strain. The dual-motor setup provides instant torque, which is particularly useful when towing from a standstill.

However, the test highlighted that power is only one piece of the towing puzzle. The bigger concerns were:

  • Range reduction: Towing dramatically cuts the driving range, and this test was no exception. The owner had to plan charging stops carefully to avoid running out of juice.
  • Handling and stability: The added weight of the trailer affected the vehicle's balance, especially during lane changes and braking. The EV9's suspension did a decent job, but the trailer's sway was noticeable at higher speeds.
  • Braking: Regenerative braking is less effective when towing, and the extra weight puts more strain on the mechanical brakes, requiring earlier and firmer braking inputs.

Real-World Implications for EV Towing

This test underscores a broader issue for EV owners who need to tow: the infrastructure and technology still have room to improve. While the EV9 GT-Line proved it can physically tow a trailer, the range anxiety becomes more acute when you factor in a load.

For many potential buyers, towing capacity is a key consideration. The EV9's ability to tow is impressive on paper, but this real-world test shows that you need to plan your trips more carefully than with a gas-powered SUV. Charging networks are expanding, but they're not yet as ubiquitous as gas stations, especially on rural routes.

Tips for Towing with an EV

If you're considering towing with an EV like the Kia EV9, here are some practical tips from this test:

  • Plan your route with charging stops in mind, adding a buffer for reduced range.
  • Use trailer brakes if possible to reduce strain on the vehicle's braking system.
  • Drive at moderate speeds to minimize energy consumption and improve stability.
  • Check tire pressure on both the vehicle and trailer before setting off.

Conclusion: Towing with the EV9 GT-Line Is Doable, but Plan Ahead

The Kia EV9 GT-Line's 60-mile tow test proves that electric SUVs can handle real towing duties, but it also highlights the compromises. Power is abundant, but range and handling require careful consideration. For those who tow occasionally, the EV9 is a viable option—just be prepared to plan your journeys around charging infrastructure.

As EV technology evolves, we can expect improvements in battery capacity and charging speed that will make towing more practical. Until then, this test serves as a valuable reminder that electric towing is a different beast, and the power is just the beginning.