EVs Towing Camper Trailers: What the Real-World Data Says
A Tesla Model 3 just towed a camper 5,700km across Australia. Here's what that means if you're considering an EV on a novated lease. Read the honest take.
A real-world road trip just put the EV-towing question to the test. According to a report from The Driven [Source 1], a Tesla Model 3 towed a 50-year-old pop-top camper trailer nearly 5,700km — revealing the genuine impact on range, charging stops and running costs when you're actually hauling weight across the country.
This isn't a manufacturer spec sheet. It's someone who did the trip, tracked the numbers, and reported back. That matters, because the EV towing debate has produced a lot of heat and not much light.
What this means for novated lease customers
If you're weighing up an EV under a novated lease, towing capability is a legitimate question — not a dealbreaker, but something to think through honestly.
Here's what the real-world data consistently shows: towing cuts EV range significantly, typically by 30–50% depending on load, speed and terrain. That means more charging stops, longer trip times, and a need to plan routes around charger locations. On a 5,700km trip that's manageable with the right preparation — but it's not the same experience as towing with a diesel.
The upside? Fuel and maintenance savings under a novated lease still stack up even when you're charging more frequently. EVs have no transmission fluid, no exhaust, fewer moving parts — and under a novated lease, your running costs (including charging) are bundled pre-tax. The FBT exemption for eligible EVs [Source 1] also remains in place for vehicles under the luxury car tax threshold, which meaningfully changes the ownership equation even for drivers who tow occasionally — not just city commuters.
Common questions
Can I tow a camper trailer with an EV on a novated lease?
Yes, provided the vehicle's tow rating covers your trailer's weight. The Tesla Model 3, for example, has a 1,000kg braked towing capacity — enough for a lightweight camper. Always check the specific model's tow rating before you sign anything.
Does towing affect the running cost savings of a novated lease EV?
Towing increases energy consumption, so your charging costs go up on towing trips. That said, electricity is still significantly cheaper per kilometre than petrol or diesel, even at higher consumption rates. Your novated lease budget should factor in your actual use pattern — not just commuter kilometres.
Is the EV FBT exemption worth it if I only tow occasionally?
For most PAYG employees, yes. The FBT exemption applies to how the vehicle is financed, not how you use it. Occasional towing doesn't disqualify you — it just means your charging costs vary across the year.
Which EVs have the best towing capacity available on a novated lease?
Options with stronger towing ratings include the Tesla Model Y (1,600kg braked), Kia EV9 (2,500kg braked), and the BYD Shark ute (currently under review for Australian availability). Towing capacity varies significantly by model — we can help you match the right vehicle to your use case.
How do I plan charging on a long EV towing trip in Australia?
Tools like ABRP (A Better Route Planner) let you input your trailer weight and get realistic range estimates between chargers. Australia's fast-charging network has improved substantially, but remote routes still require planning — especially outside the east coast corridor.