Planning to hitch up that boat or utility trailer to your new Chevy Equinox EV? That 1,500-pound towing capacity isn’t just a conservative estimate—it’s hardwired into the battery’s thermal limits, and the consequences of pushing past it go far beyond watching your range plummet. The engineering rationale reveals why GM chose this specific number while other EVs in the same class tow nothing at all. What most owners don’t realize is how towing even within the limit triggers a cascade of systems you never knew existed.
What You Can Actually Tow With 1,500 Pounds
Since the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV maxes out at 1,500 pounds of towing capacity, you’re looking at a pretty specific subset of trailers and cargo—basically everything below that threshold fits, and everything above it doesn’t.
Small utility trailers (400–1,200 pounds empty) work fine, especially with light loads.
Single jet skis with trailers (800–1,200 pounds) stay well within limits.
Motorcycle trailers (500–1,000 pounds) are no problem.
You’ll comfortably handle kayak setups (300–600 pounds) and paddleboard trailers (under 500 pounds).
Where things get tight: pop-up campers often exceed capacity when loaded, though ultralight teardrop trailers (1,000–1,500 pounds) hit the ceiling. Remember that actual loaded trailer weight, not just the manufacturer’s dry weight, is what truly determines whether you stay within your Equinox EV’s limits. The vehicle’s 85 kWh battery pack also influences towing efficiency, as hauling additional weight will reduce your overall driving range.
ATV single-haulers (800–1,400 pounds) push close to your limit depending on the trailer’s weight.
Think of it this way—your Equinox EV matches Toyota’s RAV4 capacity but trails Ford’s Escape considerably (3,500 pounds).
You’re not hauling vacation homes, but practical recreation gear? That’s exactly your wheelhouse.
Why Equinox EV Towing Caps at 1,500 Pounds
The 1,500-pound towing limit on your Equinox EV isn’t arbitrary—it’s the direct result of engineering trade-offs baked into the vehicle’s fundamental design. Chevrolet prioritized efficiency and urban capability over heavy-duty hauling, which shaped every structural decision from frame geometry to axle specifications.
Your electric motor delivers impressive torque instantly, but cooling systems can’t sustain the prolonged thermal stress that sustained towing demands. The battery pack and motor assemblies generate heat differently than traditional engines, requiring conservative load ratings to prevent component degradation. GVWR limits further constrain the maximum weight your vehicle can safely carry when factoring in passengers and cargo alongside trailer load.
Stricter emissions regulations also influenced this positioning. Unlike the Silverado EV (rated 10,000 pounds), your Equinox targets city driving and light cargo work. The frame and suspension geometry simply won’t handle the structural stresses of heavier trailers without compromising safety margins. This 1,500-pound ceiling reflects physics reality, not marketing limitation.
Does FWD or eAWD Give You Better Towing?
Now that you grasp why Chevrolet capped your Equinox EV at 1,500 pounds, you’re probably wondering which drivetrain actually handles that load better—and here’s the straightforward answer: both FWD and eAWD versions max out at the same 1,500-pound rating regardless of trim level.
Both FWD and eAWD Equinox EV models max out at the same 1,500-pound towing capacity regardless of trim level.
However, the real difference lies in *how* they handle that weight.
Your eAWD model delivers 290 horsepower and 346 lb-ft torque versus the FWD’s 210 horsepower and 242 lb-ft, giving you superior launch capability and stability when backing down boat ramps. The dual-motor setup grips all four wheels, which matters tremendously in rain, snow, or slippery conditions. The 17.7-inch infotainment screen on eAWD models also provides enhanced visibility for trailer monitoring and rear-camera display during towing operations.
That said, FWD saves you energy costs on light towing thanks to better efficiency (109 MPGe versus eAWD’s reduced efficiency).
Choose eAWD for adverse weather confidence; pick FWD if you’re towing occasionally in favorable conditions and prioritize range preservation.
What You Need to Buy: Trailer Hitch and Accessories
You’ll need to decide between Chevrolet’s OEM hitch receiver package (which maxes out at 1,500 lbs towing capacity) or upgrading to an aftermarket option like the EcoHitch X7492S that bumps your rating to 5,000 lbs—a significant difference if you’re hauling anything heavier than a modest trailer.
Beyond the hitch itself, you’re looking at a trailer wiring kit (the OEM kit includes a 4-pin connector, though universal options like the Curt 59236 work too) and possibly a hitch cover to protect the receiver opening when you’re not towing. The EcoHitch includes a patent-pending stainless steel receiver that distinguishes it from other aftermarket options on the market.
Keep in mind that extensions and connectors for bike racks or cargo carriers will reduce your tongue weight capacity, so factor that math in before loading up.
Trailer Hitch LPO Installation
Installing a trailer hitch on your Equinox EV starts with determining what components you’ll actually need to buy, since Chevy offers this gear through multiple channels with varying degrees of completeness. The Official Trailering Package (LPO, PCK) costs $925 on LT and RS trims, bundling the hitch receiver with steel construction and bolt-on mounting hardware. You’re looking at a 2-inch receiver opening designed for dealer installation. The trailering provisions (RPO V92) include a 4-wire electrical harness and 4-pin sealed connector to support your trailer’s lighting and brake systems.
| Component | LT Trim | RS Trim | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trailering Package | Required | Included | $925 |
| Convenience Package | $8,300–$11,400 | Standard | Varies |
| Wiring loom | 4-pin connector | 4-pin connector | Included |
| Hitch Height | 7 11/16″ ground | 7 11/16″ ground | N/A |
The OEM kit bundles everything, eliminating guesswork. RS owners skip package purchases—you’ve got trailering provisions standard.
Hitch Closeout Cover Addition
Once your hitch receiver’s bolted to the frame and the wiring loom is routed through the bumper cavity, you’ve still got an exposed opening that’ll collect road debris, salt, and whatever else the highway throws at it—which is where a closeout cover comes in.
This snap-fit accessory slides into the existing cutout, sealing that cavity while maintaining your Equinox EV’s factory appearance. The stainless steel receiver on the EcoHitch X7492S model resists corrosion better than standard alternatives, making it an excellent long-term investment for your vehicle.
Many hitch kits bundle the cover with installation hardware, though you’ll occasionally need to purchase it separately.
Alignment’s straightforward: position the cover flush with your bumper frame, then engage the latch mechanism until it clicks.
Reinstall your bumper cover using factory clips and screws.
If trimming’s required for perfect fit, a utility knife handles it cleanly.
You’re protecting your investment while keeping things looking OEM-original.
How Ultium Battery and Motor Tech Limits Towing Capacity
While the Chevrolet Equinox EV’s towing capacity—capped at 1,500 lbs—might seem modest compared to gas trucks, it’s not an arbitrary limit but rather a direct consequence of how GM’s Ultium battery and drive motor design constrain performance under load.
You’re dealing with thermal management constraints; prolonged towing strains the battery’s cooling limits, forcing conservative ratings to prevent overheating.
The Equinox EV’s single-motor setup distributes power differently than heavier Ultium platforms (compare this to Hummer EV’s dual motors handling 12,000 lbs), which directly impacts torque delivery and sustained towing performance.
Add weight distribution physics: the battery’s mass affects payload capacity, currently maxing at around 1,300 lbs across the lineup.
Under towing stress, efficiency plummets below 1 mi/kWh, halving available range.
These interconnected limitations—battery thermal constraints, motor architecture, structural design—conspire to establish your 1,500 lb ceiling.
FWD vs. eAWD: Real-World Towing Performance
The FWD model (213 hp, 236 lb-ft) handles light recreational towing adequately, sacrificing performance for range and efficiency gains.
eAWD’s four-wheel grip excels during rain, snow, and uneven terrain, where its motors work in concert for superior control.
Choose FWD if you’re towing occasionally with fuel economy as priority.
Select eAWD when consistent traction and assured pulling power define your needs—physics favors distributed power delivery.
What Happens to Your Range When Towing
When you hook up a trailer to your Equinox EV, you’re basically asking your battery to work harder—and that’s where the math gets uncomfortable, because towing doesn’t just increase energy draw, it fundamentally changes how efficiently your vehicle converts stored power into forward motion.
Industry testing shows that comparable EVs experience range reductions between 50–57% under load (the Tesla Model Y dropped from 229 miles to 99 miles towing 2,250 pounds at highway speed), and your Equinox will follow similar physics: added weight multiplies rolling resistance, aerodynamic drag increases exponentially at sustained speeds, and continuous power delivery prevents the regenerative braking that normally recovers energy during coasting.
The culprit isn’t mysterious—it’s simple thermodynamics combined with mechanical reality, meaning that towing your 1,500-pound maximum capacity will likely cut your EPA-rated range roughly in half, depending on terrain, speed, and how aggressively you accelerate.
Battery Drain During Towing
If you’re planning to tow with your Equinox EV, you’ll want to appreciate how that trailer hitch affects your battery’s ability to deliver range—
because towing doesn’t just add weight, it fundamentally changes how your vehicle’s electrical system behaves.
Here’s what happens under the hitch:
- Parasitic drain occurs when you forget to remove the specific towing fuse detailed in your owner’s manual
- Battery voltage drops further during extended towing sessions, already compromised at around 260 volts
- High current demands intensify as your electrical system works harder to maintain power delivery
- Range loss accelerates on longer trips without proper precautions
That forgotten fuse? It’ll quietly siphon energy throughout your trip, compounding the efficiency loss towing already creates.
Communities of Equinox EV owners have confirmed this issue repeatedly. Check your manual before hitching anything.
Range Reduction Estimates
Your Equinox EV’s range won’t evaporate the moment you hook up a trailer, but it’ll absolutely take a hit—and here’s why:
towing forces your electric motor to work harder against increased aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, which means your battery depletes faster than it would on an unencumbered highway run.
While Chevy hasn’t quantified an exact percentage loss, real-world data suggests meaningful range reduction when pulling 1,500 pounds.
That’s why conservative driving strategies matter.
Keeping your battery charge limited to 80% during towing preserves regenerative braking efficiency and extends usable range.
Think of it this way: you’re not losing EPA-rated miles outright, but you’re accessing them differently—more deliberately, more strategically.
Plan accordingly, and you’ll manage towing without range anxiety derailing your trip.
Efficiency Loss Factors
- Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially as the trailer’s frontal area disturbs airflow, demanding more motor energy at highway speeds
- Rolling resistance jumps with added weight, forcing continuous propulsion system strain across all terrain
- Regenerative braking efficiency drops because heavier inertia reduces energy recovery on descents
- Accessory systems—trailer lights, HVAC, ADAS features—collectively pull from your battery reserve
Highway towing above 50 mph amplifies these losses dramatically.
Uphill grades compound the problem further, requiring substantial power bursts that deplete your pack rapidly.
Comprehending these mechanical realities helps you plan routes strategically and manage expectations realistically.
How Equinox EV Towing Stacks Up Against Gas SUVs
When you’re comparing the Equinox EV’s towing capability to its gas-powered sibling, the headline’s straightforward: the EV maxes out at 1,500 pounds across all 2024 and 2025 trims, while the conventional Equinox can tow up to 3,500 pounds in certain configurations.
That’s a significant gap.
However, you’re gaining distinct advantages where physics matters most. The EV’s instant torque delivery—242 lb-ft on FWD, 355 lb-ft on dual-motor—provides superior low-speed control compared to gas engines’ delayed power curves. You’ll experience smoother towing without transmission shifts interrupting momentum.
Regenerative braking assists trailer control on descents, and the electric drivetrain operates near-silent, reducing cabin fatigue during extended tows.
If you’re hauling light trailers, jet skis, or modest boat loads under 1,500 pounds, the Equinox EV delivers efficiency and sophistication the gas model can’t match. Beyond that threshold, the conventional Equinox remains the pragmatic choice.
Maintaining Your Equinox EV During Towing Season
Towing consistently puts your Equinox EV through a different operational stress than daily commuting, which means your maintenance routine needs to shift accordingly.
You’re generating heat, demanding sustained power delivery, and relying on regenerative braking systems working overtime on descents.
That’s not normal wear—that’s aggressive duty.
Before you hook up that trailer, you’ll want to nail these maintenance priorities:
- Pre-towing inspection: Check hitch connection security, test electrical connections via turn signals and brake lights, and verify brake pedal firmness
- Battery management: Limit charge to 80% maximum for mountain drives to maximize regenerative braking capability
- Tire protocol: Rotate every 7,500 miles with alignment checks; maintain cold pressure per your owner’s manual
- Brake system verification: Inspect pads and rotors, confirm trailer electric brake functionality through the controller
Remember—GM recommends holding off towing for your first 500 miles. Your Equinox EV’s systems need proper break-in before shouldering that extra load.
Towing Warranty Mistakes to Avoid
Your maintenance diligence before and during towing season keeps your Equinox EV running smoothly, but here’s what many owners miss: GM’s warranty coverage doesn’t automatically protect you once you’ve got a trailer hitched up.
The 1,500 lb towing capacity isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a warranty boundary. Exceed it, and you’ve voided coverage for drivetrain damage. Here’s where owners stumble:
| Mistake | Consequence | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Ignoring tongue weight limits | Suspension strain voids coverage | Keep tongue weight under 10% of trailer capacity |
| Skipping pre-tow inspections | Battery/motor damage claims denied | Document maintenance records |
| Using non-OEM hitches | Warranty exclusion triggered | Install Chevy-approved equipment |
| Towing beyond rated capacity | Complete coverage denial | Weigh your loaded trailer |
| Neglecting brake fluid checks | Thermal damage unprotected | Service brakes monthly during season |
You’re part of an emerging EV owner community that grasps towing differently. Your diligence protecting that 1,500 lb limit keeps both your vehicle and your warranty intact.
Is the Equinox EV Right for Frequent Towing?
If you’re planning to tow regularly rather than occasionally, you’ll need to reconcile the Equinox EV’s 1,500-pound capacity with real-world physics:
towing anything near that limit simultaneously drains your battery faster (roughly 20-30% range reduction depending on trailer aerodynamics and weight distribution) while cutting into payload capacity for passengers and cargo.
The vehicle’s electric design simply isn’t engineered for the frequent heavy hauling that gas-powered crossovers handle routinely—it’s built for light-duty, intermittent towing like small boat trailers or utility equipment,
not the cumulative stress of weekly hauling trips that require strategic charging stops between destinations.
Light Duty Towing Capability
Because the Chevy Equinox EV tops out at 1,500 pounds of towing capacity—a figure that remains consistent across all 2024, 2025, and 2026 model years, regardless of trim level or powertrain configuration—you’re looking at a vehicle designed squarely for light-duty hauling. It is not intended for serious trailer work.
Here’s what you can realistically handle:
- Small utility trailers under 1,500 pounds
- Personal watercraft like jet skis
- Lightweight camping or cargo trailers
- ATV or motorcycle transport setups
The uniform 1,500-pound limit across FWD and eAWD drivetrains signals Chevy’s philosophy: this isn’t about maximum muscle but practical capability for occasional loads.
You’ll manage frequent light-duty towing without strain, though the Equinox EV isn’t engineered for repetitive heavy-hauling demands.
Install that optional $895 trailer hitch (RPO SDE) and you’re sorted.
Payload Limitations And Trade-Offs
While the Equinox EV’s 1,500-pound towing capacity sounds reasonable on paper, the real constraint isn’t what you’re pulling behind the vehicle—it’s what you’re carrying inside it and how that math works against you.
| Configuration | Curb Weight | Passenger Capacity | Cargo Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| FWD Model | 4,923 lb | 5 persons | 57.2 cu.ft. (folded) |
| AWD Model | 5,041 lb | 5 persons | 57.2 cu.ft. (folded) |
| Weight Impact | +118 lb | Same | Same |
| Range Trade-off | N/A | N/A | -12 miles |
You’re working with zero manufacturer-listed payload capacity—meaning no explicit weight allowance beyond what the vehicle already carries. That 118-pound weight penalty with AWD? It compounds quickly when you’re loaded with passengers and gear. For frequent towing with cargo, FWD wins. You’ll maximize range while preserving what little payload flexibility exists.
Battery Drain During Towing
When you’re flat towing an Equinox EV behind a motorhome, the vehicle’s 12-volt auxiliary battery—not the main traction pack—demands constant charging to stay alive, and that’s where things get complicated.
Here’s what happens without proper setup:
- Battery dies in 4–6 hours if no charge line connects your motorhome to the tow vehicle
- Circuit breaker failure prevents charging despite intact wiring and connections
- Fuse changes trigger tech bulletins requiring charge line verification
- Voltage drops on one prong indicate a tripped 20-amp breaker
The fix? Install a Roadmaster RM-156-25 charge line kit during tow setup. This non-factory addition routes auxiliary charging from your motorhome directly to the Equinox EV’s battery.
Verify the 20-amp breaker’s continuity with a multimeter before hitting the road—one check beats roadside battery replacement frustration.
Hitch Closeout Cover and Additional Accessories
Completing your Equinox EV’s trailering setup involves more than just bolting on a hitch receiver—you’ll want to address the aesthetic gap it leaves behind, which is where Chevy’s hitch closeout cover comes in.
Designated as LPO, VLG in GM specifications, this cover provides a seamless bumper appearance by concealing the receiver opening when you’re not towing.
You’ll find the closeout included in Chevy’s optional Trailering Package ($925 for LT and RS trims), though it’s sold separately from the hitch receiver itself.
The package pairs the cover with a 2-inch receiver and 4-pin wiring assembly—everything rated for your vehicle’s 1,500-pound towing capacity.
For expanded capability, aftermarket options like the EcoHitch X7492S (SKU X7492S) offer stainless steel construction with a concealed cross tube design and 5,000-pound capacity.
Installation takes roughly 120 minutes and requires no drilling, making it a practical upgrade over OEM components.
Common Mistakes That Void Your Towing Warranty
Your Equinox EV’s 8-year/100,000-mile towing warranty covers a lot—but only if you don’t sabotage it yourself.
While Chevrolet’s coverage is genuinely extensive, specific mistakes can void protection faster than you’d expect.
The challenge? Most owners don’t realize what those mistakes actually are until it’s too late.
Here’s what typically triggers warranty denial:
- Exceeding the 1,500 lb limit with cargo weight (including tongue weight)
- Using non-approved hitch equipment or improper installation methods
- Neglecting maintenance schedules documented in your owner’s manual
- Towing in conditions beyond manufacturer specifications (extreme grades, repeated deep water fording)
The physics here matters: exceeding payload capacity stresses the battery thermal management system and suspension components designed for specific loads.
Chevrolet engineers built your warranty around proper use—not edge cases.
Stay within spec, use approved equipment, maintain your vehicle on schedule, and you’ll keep that coverage intact.
It’s genuinely that straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Tow a Boat or RV With My Equinox EV Safely?
Yes, you can safely tow a boat or RV with your Equinox EV if it weighs under 1,500 pounds dry weight. You’ll need the trailer hitch LPO and hitch closeout cover installed for the rating to apply.
How Often Should I Charge My Equinox EV While Actively Towing?
You’ll want to charge every 100-150 miles while towing—think of it like the telegraph era of EV road trips. Plan stops every 2-3 hours at highway speeds, and you’re in the Equinox EV community doing it right.
Will Towing Void My Equinox EV Powertrain Warranty Coverage?
No, towing won’t void your Equinox EV’s powertrain warranty. You’re covered as long as you stay within the 1,500-pound towing limit and maintain your vehicle properly. We’ve got your back.
What’s the Difference Between Trailer Weight and Tongue Weight Limits?
Your trailer’s total weight differs from tongue weight—the downward force on your hitch ball. You’ll manage the 1,500 lb limit by recognizing that tongue weight typically runs 9-15% of your loaded trailer’s gross weight.
Can I Upgrade to a Higher Towing Capacity in the Future?
You won’t find higher towing capacity upgrades for your Equinox EV. Chevy’s designed this model for efficiency, not heavy hauling. The 1,500-pound limit’s locked in by engineering constraints you can’t overcome.
