2024 Tesla Model Y Towing Capacity: What You Need To Know

The Tesla Model Y has become an EV superstar since it was first released to the public in 2019. With great range, a mid-tier price, room for five people, and plenty of amenities, this vehicle remains a top choice for many electric drivers. One category that is often overlooked regarding the Model Y, however, is its towing capacity.

Yes, the Model Y’s towing capacity isn’t that of the Tesla Cybertruck or a Ford F-150 Lightning, but it’s pretty decent for an SUV and, more importantly, an EV. With over 3,000 pounds under its belt and a strong battery, your Model Y may become your new workhorse you never expected, or at the very least: A car you’d consider putting to work.

Many people do not consider electric or hybrid models to be worthy of towing much at all. This becomes even truer with sedans and SUVs on the market. Of course, we have Cybertruck (finally), although even then, people don’t take it too seriously. The Model Y has long been a carpool model geared toward families and anyone wanting a luxurious, modern, and efficient vehicle. But whatever happened to towing? Why can’t you enjoy a powerful SUV and be emission-free, all in a day’s time? This article is here to clear the air on the Tesla Model Y and its towing capacity, so stick around.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Tesla and other authoritative sources, including the brand’s store and spec page.

The Tesla Model Y Can Tow Up To 3,500 Pounds

Something that may surprise you is that the Tesla Model Y is capable of towing 3,500 pounds across all its trim levels. This five-seat SUV packs a surprising punch in the capability department, especially for those towing a small moving pod or trailer from point A to B. Because this model has never been seen or advertised as a workhorse, many people don’t even know of the hidden towing talent that Model Y has.

Instead, drivers often view the Model Y as a bigger version of the Model 3. And, in hindsight, they aren’t *that* wrong. Whatever the case, you CAN tow things with an optional package on Model 3, regardless of wheel type. If you have a Performance, Long Range, or just a base model, you are able to tow up to 3,500 pounds with the right configuration at the rear side of your vehicle.

Wait: You Have To Purchase A Tow Package

Okay, not to ruin the party, but you do have to purchase the Model Y ‘Tow Package’ to see the 3,500-pound capacity from your vehicle. Luckily, this package retails for $1,300 and includes a high-strength steel tow bar and a two-inch hitch receiver. When you add this to your SUV, you see the impressive 3,500-pound towing capacity that the Tesla Model Y is equipped to handle. You can purchase this before or after getting your Model Y, making it a quintessential upgrade for owners.

Here is what the package includes:

• 1X High-strength Steel Tow Bar With Two-inch Hitch Receiver And North America Seven-pin Standard Connector
• 1X Trailer Harness
• 1X Tow mode Software Package

3,500 Pounds Is Better Than Nada

Even though a truck driver may scoff at 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, the Model Y does a better job than most of its competition. In the EV and ICE space, many auto builders skip past towing when creating their models. First, SUVs aren’t usually seen as towing machines. Many buyers just want something family-friendly and economical, so they aren’t spending their lives at the gas station or attached to a charger.

The Model Y has continued to provide a high-quality, low-maintenance vehicle to families and single drivers for years and is capable of also towing quite a bit of stuff between properties, cities, states, and perhaps countries. Remember, Tesla has never said it makes work cars. Ever. This brand is posh and meant more to be seen than heard. Regardless, 3,500 pounds of towing capacity is better than zero. Or even a couple thousand.

The Tesla Model Y Beats Ford Mach-E For Towing Capacity

One comparison we often make is between the Ford Mach-E and Tesla Model Y. In this battle, Tesla provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity for its drivers, while the Mach-E offers a mere 2,200 pounds. Of course, you don’t have to pay anything extra with Ford for the towing capability, but even then, Tesla is only charging $1,300.

Even at Mach-E’s best towing configuration (with the 91 kWh extended-range battery and the AWD system), it reaches 3,306 pounds. Again, these models continue to be similar. In this head-to-head, though, we hand the crown to Tesla. Sorry, Mach-E.

Cargo And Payload Capacity In The Tesla Model Y

Continuing the deep dive, it’s worth mentioning how much space and payload capacity the Model Y truly boasts. First, you have between 904 and 1,349 pounds of payload capacity in this SUV. Therefore, if you wanted to tote heavier items from one spot to another, this would be doable inside your Tesla vehicle. Payload capacity is essentially what your car, truck, or SUV can tow inside of its cabin.

Let’s say you have 10 suitcases you have to bring to the airport. In a Model Y, this is more than possible. Make it 15+ if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s also worth noting that if you fill your Model Y to its brink, you will experience fewer miles of range per charge. The heavier your SUV on its battery, the less distance it will go. Unfortunately, that’s the same case between ICE and EV models.

Cargo, Cargo, And More Cargo

Regarding the total cargo space inside of the Tesla Model Y, this is where things become even more exciting. With your vehicle, you can see as much cargo room as:

• 72.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded
• 30.2 cubic feet with all seats up
• 4.1 cubic feet inside the front truck

On top of these dimensions, you have a total cargo capacity of 76.2 cubic square feet in the Model Y for 2024. This should be more than enough room for everyday storage, toting, and travel. After all, this SUV continues to be a top choice for those who are road-tripping and have families. Just don’t forget to use the frunk!

Towing, Cargo, And More: Tesla Model Y Is A Great Vehicle

When it comes to the capability of a 2024 Tesla Model Y and those that came before it, this electric SUV is pretty powerful across the board. With a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, you can attach a moving pod or trailer or tow a small vehicle behind your Tesla without a hitch (well, you need one, but metaphorically speaking…). This EV can handle everyday storage and toting, all with a $1,300 tow package upgrade, which many drivers find worth the investment.

Even if you want to use your Model Y for work, we don’t see why 3,500 pounds won’t be enough for small or mid-size projects. One thing you should remember, though, is that when towing heavier items, your electric car may see decreased range and performance between charges. This shouldn’t be disappointing by much, but you will see poorer efficiency the heavier your Model Y becomes.

Remember to charge up and tow according to weight capacity, and don’t be afraid to use your SUV’s interior cargo room when making long trips. There’s room for quite a bit of stuff!