Experience with Tesla Model S and Trailer Hitch
The Tesla Model S has no factory trailer hitch — but a German retrofit provider offers one. I got it installed and here's everything you need to know.
The Tesla Model S originally has no trailer hitch. It is not even prepared by the manufacturer to have one in the near future. Fortunately, a German retrofit provider offers such a hitch. I visited them and had the hitch installed on my Model S.
Here I report about the process and my experience with the hitch.
Preparations
To prepare the installation of a trailer hitch, there are no preparations needed. You just need your vehicle, its registration, and some cash. Misterdotcom offered the installation with the following pricing:
- €1,500 Material
- €650 Labour cost
- €100 Inspection by TÜV, which is necessary to regain operating licence
Overall, the cost was €2,250 with €300 to be paid beforehand as an appointment reservation.
Installation
The installation of the trailer hitch happens in the garage of the seller, which is in Willich. I arrived at 9 a.m. and handed over the vehicle. The installation took 4 hours to complete.
After I received some instruction on how to attach and detach the hitch, I left for the visit to TÜV. Luckily, it is right around the corner and the employee there immediately had time for me. He lifted the car and made some photos of the installation itself.
It took about one week after that until I received the certification to update my operating licence.
Driving the Model S with a Trailer
So, how is it to drive the Model S with an attached trailer? Well, you don't really notice the trailer and its additional load. I'm really curious about how energy consumption will react though.
Until now, I was only able to use it on private property, but as soon as I can drive with a trailer for real, I will share my experience here!
Some other German Model S drivers already have some experience — for more information and discussion, visit the TFF Forum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Tesla Model S have a factory trailer hitch?+
No. Tesla does not offer a factory trailer hitch for the Model S. Aftermarket retrofit solutions are available in Germany and other European markets, supplied by specialist providers who obtain type approval for the modification.
What is the maximum towing capacity of the Tesla Model S with a retrofit hitch?+
With a German-approved retrofit hitch, the Tesla Model S can tow a braked trailer of up to 1,000 kg. This is lower than comparable combustion-engine executive cars but sufficient for a small camping trailer, a motorcycle trailer, or a lightweight horse box.
Does towing affect the range of a Tesla Model S?+
Yes, significantly. Towing a trailer increases aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, which can reduce the Tesla Model S range by 30–50% depending on trailer size, speed, and conditions. Trip planning with a trailer requires accounting for more frequent charging stops than unloaded driving.