For a long time, a misconception dominated the automotive industry: that electric motors were only meant for light city cars, while real power and serious towing capability could only be provided by diesel “heavyweights.” However, the technological reality of 2026 completely refutes this stereotype. Today, towing efficiency is viewed through two lenses: the structural capabilities of the vehicle and the technical potential of the electric motor itself. This is a revolutionary approach, especially for the construction, logistics, and service sectors, where a vehicle’s power is measured not by speed, but by instantaneous available pulling force. Armenia’s mountainous terrain demands exactly these kinds of solutions, such as those offered by the Maxus commercial line.
The “Muscles” of an Electric Motor
When discussing towing, the most important metric is not horsepower, but torque. The primary advantage of an electric motor is instant torque. Unlike internal combustion engines, which must reach a certain range of revolutions per minute (RPM) to display their full power, an electric motor provides maximum pulling force right from zero speed.
This means that when starting a heavily loaded vehicle from a standstill, the electric motor does not “struggle.” According to industry analyses, the efficiency of electric motors during towing can exceed 90%. Furthermore, electric motors do not require complex transmissions, which eliminates power loss during gear shifts. The motor installed in the Maxus eDeliver 9 is a perfect example of this technology, providing steady pulling power on any incline.
Towing Power and Structural Integrity
A vehicle’s towing capacity depends on more than just the motor; it is a complex engineering solution involving chassis strength, the braking system, and battery placement. In electric vehicles, the center of gravity is very low (thanks to the battery being mounted in the floor), which increases stability when working with heavy trailers.
Today, the Maxus eTerron 9 pickup sets new standards in the market, providing a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons. This is the same figure as the world’s most powerful diesel pickups, yet the electric version offers a smoother ride and absolute silence. As we noted previously why choose electric vans, this allows businesses to perform heavy logistical tasks with minimal operational costs.
Engine Efficiency Under Load
When a vehicle tows a heavy load, the thermal stress on the engine increases significantly. In such conditions, internal combustion engines produce vast amounts of heat, most of which is wasted, while the cooling system works at its limit. The electric motor, due to its simplicity and lack of rubbing parts, has much lower thermal losses.
The Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) used in the latest Maxus models maintain high efficiency even during long uphill climbs. This means you won’t feel a drop in power when you need it most. Additionally, the electric motor’s control system adjusts power distribution between the wheels instantaneously (within milliseconds), which is vital when maneuvering a heavy trailer on slippery surfaces.
Recuperation as a “Safety Net” During Descents
When working with heavy loads, the most dangerous moment is not the climb, but the descent. Diesel vehicle braking systems often overheat under the pressure of a heavy trailer, which can lead to a loss of braking efficiency. Electric technology addresses this issue through regenerative braking. The motor acts as a generator, slowing the vehicle without wearing down the brake pads while simultaneously recharging the battery.
Reports show that this reduces braking system maintenance costs for commercial vehicles by 70%. On Armenia’s mountainous roads, this is not only a cost advantage but also a major safety improvement, since the vehicle is controlled by electromagnetic force rather than mechanical friction that can wear out or overheat.
A common question is how much the driving range decreases when towing. As with any type of engine, additional weight and air resistance require more energy. However, in electric vehicles this loss is partially compensated by regeneration. In addition, Maxus commercial vehicles offer smart route planning systems that take into account trailer weight and road terrain, calculating precisely how much charge is needed to reach the next station.
Thermal Management Systems and Reliability
Towing requires a rapid release of a large amount of energy from the battery, which naturally leads to an increase in temperature. The latest 2026 models are equipped with Battery Thermal Management Systems (BTMS). This is a sophisticated liquid cooling system that keeps battery cells within the optimal range of 25°C to 35°C. In the conditions of Armenia’s hot summers, when a vehicle has to tow a heavy load up the Sevan climbs or through the Syunik passes, this system guarantees that the battery will not be damaged and the range will remain predictable.
Global Power Leaders: From American Muscle to Chinese Innovation
In 2026, the power of electric vehicles is no longer measured in hundreds, but thousands of horsepower. Today, several “power centers” have emerged in the market, each offering its own philosophy of strength.
- American Pragmatism: in the United States, the focus is on extreme towing capability. The Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T have already made towing up to 5 tons a standard, while the Chevrolet Silverado EV in its special configuration promises an incredible 9 tons of towing force, something previously available only to diesel trucks.
- European Dynamics: European manufacturers combine power with precise handling. The Mercedes-Benz G 580 (EQ Technology), with its four independent electric motors, provides 859 lb-ft of instant torque, while the Lotus Eletre R delivers around 900 hp, allowing the massive SUV to reach 100 km/h in less than 3 seconds.
- Chinese Technological Leap: Chinese brands today offer the best power-to-price ratio. The Maxus MIFA 9 revolutionizes the perception of electric minivans, offering a 180 kW motor and a level of luxury that rivals the best business sedans. In the luxury SUV segment, IM Motors, specifically the LS7 model, offers up to 425 kW (570+ hp) of power, combined with a fantastic field of vision and intelligent controls.
Thus, regardless of geography, the electric vehicles of 2026 prove one thing: the electric motor has finally defeated the internal combustion engine in terms of both raw power and efficient performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does an electric pickup’s power decrease when the battery charge is low?
Modern systems maintain maximum pulling force until a critical charge level (usually 10%), after which the electronics may limit acceleration to protect the battery.
2. What is the difference between an electric and a diesel engine during towing?
An electric motor provides maximum torque (pulling force) right from the start, allowing a heavy load to be moved from a standstill effortlessly, whereas a diesel engine needs to reach high RPMs.
3. What is the maximum towing capacity of the Maxus eTerron 9?
It can tow a braked trailer with a load of up to 3,500 kg (3.5 tons), which matches the performance of the best diesel pickups.
4. How much is the driving range reduced when towing a heavy trailer?
When traveling with a maximum load, energy consumption can increase by 30-50%, depending on the complexity of the road and the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
5. How does the rear-wheel steering system help large SUVs?
It allows the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, significantly reducing the turning radius and making it easier to maneuver in narrow streets.
