Real-World Towing Test Puts GMC Sierra EV to the Ultimate Challenge
When Colin Jamieson took his GMC Sierra EV on a real-world towing test, hauling a massive 9,000 lb boat and trailer through Nova Scotia, the results were nothing short of impressive. Despite the heavy load, the truck maintained smooth power, impressive efficiency, and outperformed any gas or diesel truck Jamieson had ever used.
The Test
Jamieson shared his experience in a post on the “EVAAC” Facebook group, detailing how he towed a fully loaded boat weighing approximately 9,000 lbs, including the trailer and 550 liters of fuel. The Sierra EV, fully charged with a maximum range of 740 km, was driven 80.7 km mostly on highway at 105 km/hr using cruise control. Upon returning home, the truck still had 75% battery capacity and 555 km of range remaining.
What Made the Difference
Several features contributed to the Sierra EV’s exceptional performance:
- Regenerative Braking: Helped maintain speed going downhill and reduced wear on brake pads.
- Air Suspension: Showed no signs of squatting under the heavy load and made hooking/unhooking the trailer easier with its adjustable height.
- Four-Wheel Steering: Made backing into place with the massive trailer ‘a dream’.
Community Reactions
The post generated significant interest and discussion among the community, with owners sharing their own experiences and considerations about switching to electric trucks. Keith Wilde commented, “Good to hear/see more practical experience with EVs in everyday life situations.” Another user, GB Walker, shared his deliberation between Rivian, Ford, and GMC electric trucks, to which Jamieson provided insights from his experience with multiple electric vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- Towing Capability: The GMC Sierra EV successfully towed 9,000 lbs while retaining over 500 km of usable range.
- Ride and Handling: Advanced features like air suspension and four-wheel steering significantly improved towing safety and convenience.
- Braking Advantage: Regenerative braking reduced fatigue and wear during heavy towing.
- Real-World Validation: Owner feedback confirms electric trucks are outperforming traditional trucks in meaningful ways.
As the automotive world watches electric vehicles evolve, stories like Colin Jamieson’s offer hope that electric trucks are entering their practical phase, becoming reliable tools for demanding tasks like heavy towing.
