The GMC Hummer EV is a revolutionary all-electric supertruck that promises incredible performance both on and off-road. However, one crucial aspect that often determines a truck's capability is its towing capacity. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the Hummer EV's maximum towing ratings, real-world towing performance, essential towing equipment, best practices for safe towing, and real-world experiences from owners who have put the Hummer EV's towing prowess to the test.
The Hummer EV's maximum towing capacity varies based on the trim level and configuration. Understanding these ratings is crucial for determining the right model to suit your towing needs. Here's a breakdown of the maximum towing ratings for different Hummer EV trims:
| Trim Level | Configuration | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2X/2X | Dual-motor, 20-module battery pack | 12,000 lbs |
| 3X | Tri-motor, 20-module battery pack | 8,500 lbs |
| With Extreme Off-Road Package | Skid plates, locking differentials | 7,500 lbs (2X and 3X trims) |
The dual-motor 2X and 2X trims boast an impressive maximum towing capacity of 12,000 lbs, surpassing competitors like the Rivian R1T (11,000 lbs) and Ford F-150 Lightning (10,000 lbs max). This higher rating is likely due to the dual-motor configuration's lower center of gravity and optimized weight distribution.
While the tri-motor 3X trims offer unparalleled performance and acceleration, their maximum towing capacity is rated at 8,500 lbs. For those prioritizing off-road capability over towing capacity, the Extreme Off-Road Package reduces the towing capacity to 7,500 lbs across both 2X and 3X trims, likely due to the increased weight and off-road-oriented components.
While the maximum towing ratings provide a good starting point, understanding the Hummer EV's real-world towing performance and range is equally important.
In an extensive towing test conducted by Car & Driver, the Hummer EV Edition 1 (tri-motor) was tasked with towing a 6,100 lb camper trailer. The results showed that the Hummer EV could tow for around 140 miles at 70 mph before running low on battery, which is approximately half of its unladen highway range.
Despite the reduced range, the publication noted that the Hummer EV exhibited impressive acceleration, stability, and regenerative braking capability while towing, thanks to its immense power and low center of gravity.
To enhance the towing experience, the Hummer EV comes equipped with several unique features designed specifically for towing:
Tow/Haul mode: Optimizes power delivery, regenerative braking, and cooling systems for better towing performance.
Trailer integration: Allows the truck to monitor and control various functions of a smart trailer, such as water levels and climate control, through the infotainment system.
Camera system: Provides up to 18 different views, including a "transparent trailer" view that allows the driver to see through the trailer, enhancing visibility and safety while towing.
To ensure a safe and efficient towing experience, it's essential to understand the towing equipment available for the Hummer EV.
The Hummer EV comes standard with an integrated trailer brake controller, which is a crucial component for towing heavy loads. In terms of trailer hitch classes, the following options are available:
2X and 2X trims: Class IV hitch capable of handling up to 10,000 lbs of trailer weight.
3X trims: Likely a higher Class V hitch rated for up to 12,000 lbs to match their maximum towing capacity.
Additionally, GMC offers the ProGrade Trailering System as an optional package. This comprehensive suite of features includes:
Pre-departure checklists to ensure all necessary components are properly connected and functioning.
Trailer light testing to verify the trailer's lighting system.
Load calculation tools to help determine the appropriate tongue weight and overall trailer weight.
| ProGrade Trailering System Features |
|---|
| Pre-departure checklists |
| Trailer light testing |
| Load calculation tools |
| Accessible through infotainment system |
The ProGrade Trailering System aims to simplify the towing process and provide a more seamless experience for Hummer EV owners.
While the Hummer EV's towing capabilities are impressive, following best practices is crucial for safe and efficient towing.
Calculating total trailer weight and tongue load:
Load 60% of the trailer's weight in front of the axle for proper weight distribution.
Maintain a tongue weight of 10-15% of the overall trailer weight.
Proper weight distribution techniques:
Place heavy items closer to the axle to prevent excessive tongue weight.
Use a weight-distributing hitch for trailers over 5,000 lbs to balance the load.
Driver assistance technologies for safer towing:
Trailer Sway Control
Blind Spot Monitoring
Rear Trailer View
These features can help drivers maintain control and awareness of their surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring a safer towing experience.
While the Hummer EV is still a relatively new vehicle, some owners have already shared their experiences towing with this electric beast.
Many owners have praised the Hummer EV's towing capabilities, citing the smooth acceleration and torque provided by the electric motors as a significant advantage over traditional gas-powered trucks. However, they also acknowledge the need to plan charging stops carefully, as towing can significantly reduce the vehicle's range.
One owner shared their experience towing a 6,000 lb boat for approximately 120 miles, noting that they had about 25% battery remaining at the end of the trip. This highlights the importance of factoring in charging needs and range planning when towing with the Hummer EV, especially for longer trips.
While the Hummer EV's towing experience is generally smooth and planted, some owners have noted that it takes some getting used to the lack of engine sound and vibration typically associated with towing a heavy load. However, they also appreciate the convenience of "refueling" at home by simply plugging in the vehicle, eliminating the need to visit gas stations.
The GMC Hummer EV is an exceptional electric truck that delivers impressive towing capabilities, with certain trims able to pull trailers weighing over 12,000 lbs. While its towing range may be limited compared to gas-powered counterparts, the Hummer EV's unique features, such as Tow/Haul mode, trailer integration, and advanced camera systems, provide a smooth and powerful towing experience. By understanding the vehicle's capabilities, essential towing equipment, and best practices, Hummer EV owners can enjoy the convenience of electric towing while planning for charging needs and range limitations. As charging infrastructure continues to improve, the towing usability of electric vehicles like the Hummer EV will only become more practical and convenient.
The maximum towing capacity of the GMC Hummer EV varies by trim level, ranging from 7,500 lbs to 12,000 lbs. The 2X and 2X trims with the dual-motor configuration can tow up to 12,000 lbs, while the 3X tri-motor trims are rated for 8,500 lbs.
The Extreme Off-Road Package, which includes skid plates and locking differentials, reduces the towing capacity of both the 2X and 3X trims to 7,500 lbs. This is likely due to the added weight and off-road-oriented components.
In a towing test conducted by Car & Driver, the Hummer EV Edition 1 (tri-motor) could tow a 6,100 lb camper trailer for around 140 miles at 70 mph before running low on battery, which is approximately half of its unladen highway range.
The Hummer EV comes equipped with several towing features, including Tow/Haul mode, trailer integration for monitoring and controlling smart trailer functions, and a camera system with up to 18 different views, including a "transparent trailer" view.
The Hummer EV comes standard with an integrated trailer brake controller. Additionally, GMC offers the ProGrade Trailering System as an optional package, which includes pre-departure checklists, trailer light testing, and load calculation tools.
Some best practices for safe towing include properly calculating total trailer weight and tongue load, using weight distribution techniques, and utilizing driver assistance technologies like Trailer Sway Control and Blind Spot Monitoring.
Many Hummer EV owners praise the smooth acceleration and torque provided by the electric motors for towing, but acknowledge the need to plan charging stops carefully due to reduced range. Some owners also note the lack of engine sound and vibration takes some getting used to.
Yes, the Hummer EV's maximum towing capacity of up to 12,000 lbs (for the 2X and 2X trims) is sufficient for towing large boats or RVs, provided the total weight falls within the rated capacity.
The Hummer EV's maximum towing capacity of 12,000 lbs surpasses competitors like the Rivian R1T (11,000 lbs) and Ford F-150 Lightning (10,000 lbs max), making it one of the most capable electric trucks for towing.
While the Hummer EV offers impressive towing capabilities, potential drawbacks include reduced range when towing, the need for careful charging planning, and the lack of engine sound and vibration cues that some drivers may be accustomed to.
Sarah isn't your average gearhead. With a double major in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Technology, she dived straight into the world of car repair. After 15 years of turning wrenches at dealerships and independent shops, Sarah joined MICDOT to share her expertise and passion for making cars run like new. Her in-depth knowledge and knack for explaining complex issues in simple terms make her a valuable asset to our team.