2019 Tesla Model S: Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2019 Tesla Model S is not rated for towing in North America.

Quick Answer: 2019 Tesla Model S

• Maximum Towing Capacity: Not Rated
• Maximum Payload Capacity: 970 lbs (440 kg)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 5,820 - 6,094 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Not Applicable
• Curb Weight: 4,850 - 5,124 lbs
• Hitch Receiver Class: Not Applicable

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

Tesla does not rate or recommend towing with the 2019 Model S in the North American market. As such, there are no official tow ratings for any trim or configuration. In some European markets, a tow hitch option rated for up to 1,600 kg (approximately 3,500 lbs) was available, but this was a factory-installed option not offered in the US or Canada. Retrofitting a hitch may have implications for the vehicle's warranty.

Tow Package Contents

Since the 2019 Tesla Model S is not designed for towing in North America, there is no official factory tow package available. Therefore, features commonly found in tow packages are not included or supported:

• Transmission Cooler: Not applicable, as electric vehicles do not have traditional multi-gear transmissions. The battery and motor cooling systems are not designed for the additional sustained load of towing.
• Integrated Brake Controller: Not available. An aftermarket controller would be required for trailers with electric brakes.
• Trailer Sway Control: The vehicle's stability control system is not programmed with a trailer sway control function.
• 7-Pin Connector: The vehicle is not factory-equipped with a 7-pin trailer wiring harness.

5th-Wheel & Gooseneck Towing

5th-wheel and gooseneck towing are not possible with the Tesla Model S.

Aftermarket Hitches & Warranty Considerations

While some aftermarket companies offer hitch receivers for the Model S, installing one is done at the owner's risk. Tesla's vehicle warranty may not cover damage caused by towing or the installation of a tow hitch. The vehicle's subframe, suspension, and powertrain cooling systems were not designed to handle the stress of pulling a trailer. Exceeding the vehicle's GVWR by adding trailer tongue weight and cargo can lead to premature wear and potential safety issues.

Real-World Towing Tips for this Vehicle

Officially, the only tip is not to tow with the Model S in North America. For owners who choose to use an aftermarket hitch for light-duty purposes like a bike rack, it is critical to stay within the rack's and the hitch's stated weight limits. Always ensure any lights (if on a rack) are properly connected and not obscuring the vehicle's taillights or license plate.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Because the vehicle is not intended for towing, owners who attempt it may face several issues:

• Warranty Voidance: Tesla may deny warranty claims for damage to the battery, motors, suspension, or subframe if it is determined to be caused by towing.
• Reduced Range: The vehicle's range will be drastically reduced when pulling any weight.
• Overheating: The battery and drive units may overheat under the sustained load of towing, potentially leading to reduced power or vehicle shutdowns.
• Structural Strain: The vehicle's unibody structure is not designed to handle the tongue weight of a trailer, which could lead to chassis damage over time.

Before attempting to tow or mount any equipment to your vehicle, always consult your owner's manual and verify any ratings on the driver's side door-jamb sticker.

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