Can Hybrids carry a heavy payload? Will it have it pulling power?

Question

Can Hybrids carry a heavy payload? Will it have it pulling power?

Answer 1

Generally hybrids are underpowered compared to other cars. The exception to this is is the Escalade, Tahoe, and Lexus hybrids. So your answer would be no.

Answer 2

depends on the hybrid, and what you consider a heavy payload.

The Saturn Vue Green Line has a max towing capacity of 1500 lbs.

http://www.saturn.com/saturn/utilitynav/...

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD has a 3500lb. max. towing capacity.

http://www.toyota.com/highlander/specs.h...

as does its cousin the Lexus RX400h (FWD or AWD):

http://www.lexus.com/models/RXh/detailed...

I don't think that the Ford Escape Hybrid/Mercury Mariner Hybrid/Mazda Tribute Hybrid is rated for towing, but I am unsure. The regular versions are capable of 1500 lbs, 3500 lbs with a special towing package, though.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid has a max. trailer weight rating of 6200 lbs.

http://www.chevrolet.com/tahoe/specifica...

While the cousin GMC Yukon Hybrid has a trailer rating of 6200 lbs. for the 2WD version, 6000 lbs. for the 4WD version:

http://www.gmc.com/yukonhybrid/index.jsp

I do not know what the towing capacities were for the GMC Sierra Hybrid and the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid pickup trucks, as these models have been discontinued...  http://www.forbesautos.com/spec/2006/gmc... claims the Sierra had 6700 lbs of towing capacity, but this early press release from GM claims 7700 lbs maximum trailer weight for the 2WD, 7400 for the 4WD: http://media.gm.com:8221/us/fco/en/produ...  GM does plan to re-release these models with an improved hybrid drivetrain in the near future, though.  (thankfully!  the amount of hybridization on these models was laughable - barely auto-stop only, just enough to slap a "hybrid" label on it.)