🇦🇺 For Australian Tesla owners. This guide covers towing with the Model Y and Model 3 sold here, in kilograms and for Australian conditions. Loading up for a trip? See our Tesla roof racks and camping & cargo accessories.
Thinking about towing a trailer, boat or camping setup behind your Tesla? This guide breaks down what the Model Y and Model 3 can tow in Australia, how much range you'll lose, and the gear that makes carrying kit easier — without exceeding the tow bar.
Tesla Model Y towing capacity
The Model Y is the towing choice for most Australian owners. With the genuine Tesla tow package, Tesla lists the Model Y at up to 1,600 kg braked (around 750 kg unbraked) — enough for a small camper, box trailer, jet ski or a couple of bikes on a hitch rack. Always confirm the exact figure for your specific build and model year in your owner's manual.
The Model Y supports Trailer Mode, which adjusts the parking sensors and stability systems for safer towing.
Tesla Model 3 towing capacity
Tesla does not offer a factory tow package for the Model 3 in Australia, so it isn't officially rated to tow here. Some owners fit aftermarket hitches for light-duty use such as a bike rack, but this is at your own risk and may affect warranty on related components. If towing matters to you, the Model Y is the sensible pick.
How towing affects your range
Towing hits an EV's range harder than a petrol car's fuel economy. Expect a 30–50% range reduction when towing near capacity — so a car that normally does 450 km might manage 220–300 km with a loaded trailer. What drives the loss:
- Trailer weight and, just as much, its aerodynamic drag (a boxy camper hurts more than a low trailer)
- Speed — easing back to 90–100 km/h makes a big difference
- Hills and headwinds
Plan shorter legs between chargers and check charger access for a car-plus-trailer — not every Supercharger bay is easy to pull a trailer into.
Do you actually need to tow? Roof and cargo options
For a lot of trips — bikes, kayaks, camping gear, a weekend away — a roof or cargo setup is lighter on range and easier than a trailer:
- Tesla roof racks — carry bikes, kayaks, roof boxes and adventure gear without a tow bar.
- Sub-trunk fridge — keep food and drinks cold on road trips and at camp.
- Browse camping & cargo accessories →
Tips for towing with your Tesla in Australia
- Plan charging around the route — add buffer for the range hit and trailer access.
- Drive smoothly and keep speeds moderate to preserve range.
- Allow extra stopping distance for the added weight.
- Use regen to help control speed on descents.
- Only ever use a properly rated hitch and stay within your car's braked/unbraked limits.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Tesla Model Y tow a camper in Australia?
Yes — with the genuine tow package the Model Y is rated up to 1,600 kg braked, enough for small campers and teardrop trailers. Factor in the range reduction when planning.
Can a Tesla Model 3 tow in Australia?
There's no factory tow package for the Model 3 here, so it isn't officially rated to tow. Light aftermarket setups exist but are at the owner's risk.
How much range will I lose towing?
Typically 30–50% near capacity, depending mostly on weight, drag and speed.
Ready to load up?
Whether you're towing or just packing for a road trip, gear it up with accessories shipped from Australia: roof racks, a sub-trunk fridge, and more in our Model Y range.
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